Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, remembered for his calming leadership style and promotion of political freedom, has died at the age of 85 in Kuala Lumpur. He led the nation from 2003 to 2009, succeeding Mahathir Mohamad, and was noted for fostering dialogue amid a diverse political landscape influenced by Islam and ethnic relations.
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Passes Away at 85
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Passes Away at 85
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who served as Malaysia's fifth prime minister, died on Monday in Kuala Lumpur, leaving behind a legacy of political moderation and dialogue.
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Malaysia’s former prime minister, has passed away at the age of 85, according to a statement from Khairy Jamaluddin, his son-in-law and former health minister. Badawi passed on Monday at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur, where he had been receiving treatment for respiratory issues. He also battled dementia in recent years.
Serving from 2003 to 2009, Badawi succeeded the controversial and dominant leadership of Mahathir Mohamad, while his tenure was marked by an emphasis on political freedoms and moderate Islam. He was often seen as a stabilizing force in Malaysian politics, allowing greater public discourse about pressing national issues.
"Abdullah’s strength was allowing dialogue and discussions of Malaysia’s problems," said Bridget Welsh, a Malaysian political expert. Badawi’s approach was contrasted with Mahathir's assertive style, which had previously dominated the political scene. His time in office began positively with his party's significant electoral victory. However, he was also criticized for his slower, more cautious governance, earning him the nickname "the sleeping prime minister" due to his battle with sleep apnea.
Despite facing considerable challenges, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's legacy reflects a period of greater engagement and openness in Malaysian politics, which has influenced the nation’s subsequent political landscape.
Serving from 2003 to 2009, Badawi succeeded the controversial and dominant leadership of Mahathir Mohamad, while his tenure was marked by an emphasis on political freedoms and moderate Islam. He was often seen as a stabilizing force in Malaysian politics, allowing greater public discourse about pressing national issues.
"Abdullah’s strength was allowing dialogue and discussions of Malaysia’s problems," said Bridget Welsh, a Malaysian political expert. Badawi’s approach was contrasted with Mahathir's assertive style, which had previously dominated the political scene. His time in office began positively with his party's significant electoral victory. However, he was also criticized for his slower, more cautious governance, earning him the nickname "the sleeping prime minister" due to his battle with sleep apnea.
Despite facing considerable challenges, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's legacy reflects a period of greater engagement and openness in Malaysian politics, which has influenced the nation’s subsequent political landscape.
