DR Mahathir Mohamad has rejected the advice of economist Jomo Kwame Sundaram to not get involved in politics but become a statesman.

The former prime minister said he does not necessarily have to follow Jomo’s advice.

“That Jomo’s opinion… I don’t necessarily have to follow his wishes,” he said at a press conference in Putrajaya today.

When asked if he will continue in politics, Dr Mahathir said his political activities are based on the needs of the people and for the sake of the country.

“For the sake of the country, if people come to ask for help, I will help.

“I don’t want to say I can’t help because I want to rest. If someone asks for an opinion, I’m ready to give an opinion,” he said.

Jomo said last year, he had advised Dr Mahathir to take on the role of a great statesman and leave politics.

“I urged Mahathir to take on the role of a great statesman to help develop the country.

“Of course, as usual, he rejected my advice and we know the consequences,” he said.

Jomo had said this at an online forum titled “Malaysia’s future in a fractured world” organised by The Oxford and Cambridge Society Malaysia on YouTube last night.

In the 15th general election, Dr Mahathir lost the Langkawi parliamentary seat. He lost his deposit as well.

On December 16 last year, the 98-year-old politician resigned as chairman of Pejuang.

Pejuang then ended its collaboration with Gerakan Tanah Air on January 14.  The coalition of Malay parties was established by Dr Mahathir in August last year.

Dr Mahathir then left Pejuang and joined Putra, which is led by Ibrahim Ali. – March 28, 2023.