Malaysian Politics Under Mahathir

As Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad has led Malaysia to a high rate of economic growth and a reduction of poverty. The recent economic crisis in Asia has put Mahathir's controversial rule under increasing scrutiny. This book examines Mahathir's character, his ideas and often despotic nature, relating them to Malaysia's social, economic and political context. It contrasts his success at managing ethnic tensions, policies of industrialization, modernization and foreign policy, with his failures in human rights, checking corruption and grandiose projects. While many believe that Mahathir's leadership accentuated the economic crisis, many also believe that he is the best one to lead the country out of it. Looking toward Malaysia's future, the authors also consider the political prospects of Mahathir's deputy, Anwar Ibrahim.