PETALING JAYA: Now that he has recovered from a health scare, 97-year-old Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has pledged to spend the rest of his life towards fighting corruption.

       In a blog post, the former prime minister said he believes it will not be a waste if his remaining days are used to combat corruption.

       “Thankfully, I have recovered from a serious health condition. When I was attacked, I lost hope. I thought that my time had come.

       “But thankfully, I have recovered and am healthy again, almost like a normal person.

       “I asked myself, what do I want to do with the remaining days of my life? Do I spend it enjoying food, drinks and having fun?

       “There is not much time. I am now 97 years old. With this short period of time, do I let it pass just like that?” wrote Dr Mahathir on his blog chedet.cc.

       The chairman of Parti Pejuang Tanah Air called on all Malays to join his battle against corruption.

       “I may be wrong, but I feel that my race takes corruption lightly.

       “It cannot be denied that the failures of the Malays are because they easily make bad decisions because it is the easier and more attractive way,” he said.

       Dr Mahathir said as a Malay, he is disappointed that his race is still left behind and has not caught up with others.

       The Langkawi MP added that although Malaysia is seen as a middle-income nation, the Malays have not reached that level and are largely poor.

       “My abilities are limited, unlike when I was the Prime Minister. But a friend told me that holding that top post is not important.

       “An elderly and experienced person has some influence. Whatever influence that person has left can be used for the sake of the people,” said Dr Mahathir.

       Recently, Dr Mahathir was admitted to the National Heart Institute to undergo elective procedures.

       On Feb 5, he was discharged from the hospital.