Malaysia's former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad had a lot of similarities with the late Lee Kuan Yew — both were known to be hard men, with strong visions for their countries and little time for dissenting opinions — making for a colorful and intense rivalry between both men during their political careers.
Speaking at a dialogue in Cyberjaya last Saturday, Dr. Mahathir recounts his difficult moments working with Lee, who he mentioned to be bitter over Singapore's separation from the Malaysian federation in 1965, The Straits Times reports.
The former prime minister remarked about Lee's 'kiasu-ness', as the late leader would refuse to budge during negotiations. The relationship between the two men was often stormy, and they crossed swords many times during their tenure.
However, Dr. Mahathir notes that there was no enmity, and though he was not a close friend of Lee, he expressed sadness over his passing last month.
Photo: Udey Ismail via Flickr
Malaysia's former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad had a lot of similarities with the late Lee Kuan Yew — both were known to be hard men, with strong visions for their countries and little time for dissenting opinions — making for a colorful and intense rivalry between both men during their political careers.
Speaking at a dialogue in Cyberjaya last Saturday, Dr. Mahathir recounts his difficult moments working with Lee, who he mentioned to be bitter over Singapore's separation from the Malaysian federation in 1965, The Straits Times reports.
The former prime minister remarked about Lee's 'kiasu-ness', as the late leader would refuse to budge during negotiations. The relationship between the two men was often stormy, and they crossed swords many times during their tenure.
However, Dr. Mahathir notes that there was no enmity, and though he was not a close friend of Lee, he expressed sadness over his passing last month.
Photo: Udey Ismail via Flickr