Dr. Mahathir Mohamad is known as the architect of modern Malaysia. He served as the Prime Minister for a long time and helped Malaysia grow into a developed country.
On 10 July 2025, Dr. Mahathir celebrated his 100th birthday. Reaching this age is not a small thing, especially for someone who lived under public attention, carried responsibilities, and faced pressure for so many years.
He shared his lifestyle habits that helped him live a long life and stay mentally and physically active.
In an interview with The Straits Times, Dr. Mahathir said that people should always stay active. Sitting around and doing nothing is harmful to health.
He said he does not follow any exercise routine but avoids being lazy. Whether it’s walking, attending meetings, or doing daily tasks, he keeps his body in motion.
Dr. Mahathir believes that if you don’t use your brain, it will start to slow down and you will forget things. He reads, writes, talks to people, and gives lectures. This keeps his brain alive, and mental health is deeply connected to physical health.
Even though he stepped down from official positions, he never left public life. He continued to write, give advice, and take part in public discussions.
Most people think retirement means rest, but for Dr. Mahathir, having a purpose was always more important. He did not see rest as doing nothing, but as a time to find new direction.
Studies show that people who feel a sense of purpose even in old age stay mentally happy and also live longer.
Dr. Mahathir’s political journey was never easy. He faced criticism, international pressure, and many personal and political challenges. But he never showed signs of emotional weakness or tiredness.
Even though he doesn’t talk much about meditation, his emotional strength and ability to stay calm under pressure probably helped protect him from stress.
Chronic stress can shorten cell life and speed up aging. Research says that managing emotions and facing challenges with a positive mindset is an important key to a long life.