Learn How to Pronounce Mahathir Mohamad | YouPronounce.it

How to Pronounce Mahathir Mohamad

Quick Answer: In Malay, the name Mahathir Mohamad is pronounced [maˈhatir moˈhamad].
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)

Meaning and Context

Mahathir Mohamad is a pivotal and transformative figure in Malaysian history, having served as the nation's fourth and seventh Prime Minister in two non-consecutive terms that bookended decades of political evolution. His first tenure, from 1981 to 2003, stands as the longest in Malaysian history, a period often referred to as the "Mahathir era" characterized by aggressive modernization and economic development under policies like "Malaysia Incorporated" and "Vision 2020." During this time, he oversaw massive infrastructure projects such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the Multimedia Super Corridor, fundamentally reshaping the nation's skyline and economic trajectory. His unexpected return to power in the 2018 general election, at the age of 92, made him the world's oldest elected head of government, a dramatic comeback that realigned Malaysian politics. As a statesman, author, and sometimes controversial political patriarch, Mahathir's legacy is inextricably linked with Malaysia's rapid industrialization, assertive foreign policy, and the complex dynamics of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) and later, the Pakatan Harapan coalition.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The name "Mahathir Mohamad" has several common alternative spellings and frequent errors, largely due to transliteration from the Jawi script. The most prevalent alternate spelling is "Mahathir bin Mohamad," incorporating the patronymic "bin" (meaning 'son of'), which is a formal and correct version. Common misspellings include "Mahathir Mohammad," substituting the final 'd' for a more common Arabic-rooted spelling, and "Mahatir Mohamad," omitting the 'h' in the first name. Typos such as "Mathathir" or "Mahathir Mohamed" are also frequently encountered. It is important to note that during the colonial era, his name was recorded in English as "Mahathir bin Mohamad," but he later dropped the "bin" in common usage. The correct spelling remains crucial for academic and journalistic accuracy, with "Mahathir Mohamad" being the standard contemporary form.

Example Sentences

Historians often debate the long-term impact of Mahathir Mohamad's privatization policies on Malaysia's economic landscape.

Following the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, Mahathir Mohamad famously imposed capital controls, a controversial decision that diverged from the IMF's recommendations.

In his memoir, A Doctor in the House, Mahathir Mohamad reflects on the challenges of steering a multi-ethnic nation toward developed status.

His resignation in 2020, during his second premiership, created a significant power vacuum within the Pakatan Harapan coalition.

Many political analysts cite Mahathir Mohamad's ability to connect with rural Malay voters as a key factor in his enduring influence.

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