Malaysia’s longest-serving Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, was briefly hospitalised after celebrating his 100th birthday with a tandem bicycle ride around Putrajaya Lake. The former premier, known for his tenacity and sharp mind, pushed his physical limits in a public appearance that has since gone viral across the region.
100th Birthday Celebration with a Morning Ride
On 13 July 2025, a special public picnic and potluck session was held by the scenic Putrajaya Lake to honour Dr Mahathir’s centennial birthday. Despite his age, the sprightly elder statesman arrived at 7:45am and, in a show of stamina, embarked on a 9-kilometre tandem bicycle ride — an activity that surprised many attendees and online observers alike.
The event, attended by more than 500 people, was designed as a lighthearted community gathering. However, Mahathir reportedly began to feel fatigued after the ride and opted to leave the event early with his wife, without engaging with attendees or posing for photographs.
Admitted to National Heart Institute
Dr Mahathir was later admitted to the National Heart Institute (IJN) around 10am. His aide, Sufi Yusoff, confirmed to Malaysian media that the hospitalisation was a precautionary measure, and clarified that Mahathir’s “condition is okay”. He was expected to be discharged by the evening.
According to his son, Mokhzani Mahathir, the elder statesman was not suffering from any underlying health issue. Rather, he was simply exhausted from the physical exertion and a lack of rest following a string of celebratory engagements on 12 July. After some light breakfast — including coffee and pastries — Dr Mahathir reportedly “felt refreshed again”.
A Display of Resilience, but Also a Cautionary Moment
Though the public was relieved to hear that Mahathir’s condition was stable, the incident has sparked a mix of admiration and concern. While many netizens and political observers praised his enduring spirit and fitness at 100, others expressed worry that such a physically demanding activity might have been unwise for someone of his age.
It’s worth noting that Dr Mahathir has had a history of heart-related issues, having undergone multiple bypass surgeries. Nonetheless, his appearance — and especially the bicycle ride — has reinforced his image as a resilient and indefatigable leader who remains deeply engaged with public life, even in his twilight years.
High-Profile Milestone for Malaysian Politics
Mahathir, who first served as Prime Minister from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020, remains a towering figure in Malaysian politics. His centenary milestone is not just a personal achievement, but also a symbolic moment in Malaysia’s post-independence history. Few world leaders have lived to see 100, let alone remained politically relevant for over half a century.
Image Source: The Star