Name: amer
University: uae
Course: mba
Tutor:
Date:
Mahathir Mohamad
Background
Born on July 1925, Mahathir Mohamad served in the Malaysian government as prime minister from 1981 to 2003 and helped to spearhead the country’s economy as well as bringing forth modernization and industrialization single handedly. Before his entry into the political arena, he was an excellent student in school which saw him work first as a medical doctor. Before getting into the parliament in 1964, he became an active member of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO) (McCreedy). He lost his seat and fell out with the Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman and upon the resignation of the prime minister, he re-entered UMNO and became part of the cabinet after once again clinching his seat. He rose to the post of deputy prime minister in 1976 and by 1981, he became the prime minister. The leader has been credited for his ability to rapidly bring modernization in Malaysia as well as initiating a series of infrastructure projects that were aimed at steering the nation through the global recession of the 1980s and 1990s. During his tenure, he became a dominant political figure by winning five general elections consecutively (McCreedy). However, his relations with the western nations such as Britain, US and Australia was not good based on his record of antagonism of western economic and diplomatic interests as well as his tradition of curbing civil liberties. Despite some criticism from some political cycles, he has still remained active in politics and his legacy will still remain in the history of Malaysia.
Characteristics
Some of the leadership characteristics that enabled Mahathir to successfully transform the economic, political and social infrastructure of Malaysia include self-confidence, trustworthiness, efficiency, patience, good motivational skills, visionary aspects and integrity.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Despite loud criticism that had been directed towards...
