Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the fifth Prime Minister of Malaysia, passed away at the age of 85 due to heart disease, with previous reports indicating he had dementia. Serving from 2003 to 2009, his tenure began with significant popularity following the authoritarian Mahathir Mohamad. Abdullah advocated for political freedoms and reforms, but was later criticized for his lack of decisive leadership, leading to his resignation in light of electoral failures. After leaving politics, he maintained a low profile, reflecting on his complicated legacy in Malaysian politics during a transformative period.
When he took office, Mr. Abdullah initially rode a wave of popularity after replacing Mahathir Mohamad, a domineering, sharp-tongued leader known for his semi-authoritarian rule lasting 22 years.
During his rule, the country transitioned from a very authoritarian rule under Mahathir to a more multifaceted regime. It provided some breathing space for many Malaysians after more than two decades of very suffocating rule.
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