KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has reminded Malaysians to strive for improvement, be responsible, and devote themselves to the country in his New Year's wish.
The longest-serving Prime Minister said it is crucial for citizens to never give up, strive diligently, be equipped with knowledge, and enhance efficiency in achieving their objectives in 2025.
As he is about to reach 100 years old in the middle of 2025, Dr Mahathir said he was lucky to have gone through various important milestones in the country's history, from foreign occupation to independence and the process of developing the country.
"Happy New Year to all Malaysians, especially to those reading my message. A century is a long time. At this age, I am fortunate to have witnessed and experienced key moments in the nation's history. We were colonized, attacked, conquered, handed over to foreign powers, re-colonised, fought for independence, gained freedom, went to war, and worked hard to develop. Alhamdulillah, from my youth until today, I have had the opportunity to fight and work for the well-being of the nation," Dr Mahathir said in a statement.
He also contributed to the nation's success throughout the periods, emphasising the people's identity, which includes their fighting spirit, self-respect, and unwillingness to trade their land and dignity for anything.