Aged 100, Dr Mahathir discharged from hospital and recovering after birthday fatigue

SHAH ALAM – A celebration by the lake, a tandem bike ride and crowds of admirers marked Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s 100th birthday celebration on July 13.

However, the former prime minister began to feel fatigued and had to leave the event earlier than expected.

This led to a brief hospital stay that triggered public concern, but officials and family members were quick to clarify his condition.

A milestone celebration cut short

The birthday picnic, held by Putrajaya Lake near the Perdana Leadership Foundation, honoured Dr Mahathir’s 100th birthday and his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali’s 99th birthday.

Over 500 people gathered for the potluck-style event, bringing food and gifts to share with well-wishers.

Dr Mahathir arrived at 7.45am, having driven himself to the location.

He later joined a tandem bicycle ride with his personal security officers, completing a distance of around eight to nine kilometres.

Though initially cheerful, the ride took its toll.

“Yes, Tun was truly fatigued. So he left the event early and is now resting. His condition is okay, but he has been advised to rest and is currently at National Heart Institute (IJN),” his aide Sufi Yusoff said around 10am that morning.

Observed at IJN, home by evening

Dr Mahathir was admitted to IJN around 10am on July 13, purely as a precautionary measure after showing signs of exhaustion.

By 4.45pm, he was discharged and allowed to return home.

His son, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, later clarified that his father had no serious health issues.

“This morning, he went straight into quite a long ride, so he felt a bit fatigued. But after having some breakfasts, kuih and coffee, he felt refreshed again,” Mokhzani said.

He also clarified that Dr Mahathir had a busy few days, including a gala dinner the previous night and limited rest, which contributed to his tiredness.

Despite his early departure, the event left a strong impression on attendees, many of whom were eager to honour Malaysia’s longest-serving prime minister.

Dr Mahathir's personal message: "Alhamdulillah, I am now recovering"

On July 14, Dr Mahathir posted a video update on his Facebook page, showing him leaving what appeared to be his home, heading to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for lunch and greeting people who stopped him for photos.

In the video, he appeared relaxed, even having a conversation with a young boy.

“Assalamualaikum and warm greetings to everyone. I sincerely apologise for having to leave early from yesterday’s picnic, which was attended by thousands.

"I was feeling extremely fatigued and needed to rest, following the advice of my doctor to visit the hospital.

“I did go, but only for a brief check-up before returning home. Alhamdulillah, I am now in recovery and under the care of my doctor. I am gradually returning to my normal routine, including resuming work. I truly hope you will understand my absence yesterday. Thank you,” he said in his Facebook post.

Despite his age, the two-time prime minister remains active, engaging in public and political matters.

His recent health episode shows the natural limits of age, but also his determination to keep going.

His brief hospital visit was precautionary, not critical and he is already back to his routine, an impressive feat for someone who just turned 100.

This latest moment serves as a gentle reminder that while public figures like Dr Mahathir are admired for their resilience, even the strongest among us must take time to rest.

For many Malaysians, his presence even if brief, was still a gift.