Tue Apr 15 04:01:10 UTC 2025: ## Former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Dies at 85

**KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (April 15, 2025)** – Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Malaysia’s fifth prime minister, passed away on Monday at the age of 85 due to heart disease. Affectionately known as “Pak Lah,” Badawi was admitted to the Kuala Lumpur State Institute of Heart on April 13th after experiencing breathing difficulties. Despite receiving intensive care from a team of cardiac specialists, he succumbed to his illness.

Badawi, who served as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, was a moderate leader who oversaw a period of increased political freedoms in Malaysia. However, his tenure was also marked by criticism regarding his leadership style, described by some as lackluster and ineffectual. He succeeded the authoritarian Mahathir Mohamad, and while initially popular for his promises of institutional reform and a more moderate brand of Islam, he ultimately faced mounting pressure to resign after his governing coalition’s poor performance in the 2008 general election.

His time in office saw a transition towards a more multifaceted political landscape, offering some respite from the stringent rule of his predecessor. However, he faced criticism for failing to fulfill promises on corruption eradication and institutional reforms. He also drew flak for concurrent leadership of the Finance and Internal Security Ministries, and for instances of appearing to doze off during meetings.

Despite his critics, Badawi is credited with ushering in a period of greater freedom of speech and a more critical media landscape in Malaysia. This liberalization, however, fueled a resurgent opposition, ultimately contributing to his downfall. Following the 2008 election, he resigned under pressure, handing power to his deputy Najib Razak.

Badawi’s legacy remains a complex one, characterized by both progress in civil liberties and criticism for perceived shortcomings in leadership and governance. He leaves behind a mixed legacy in Malaysian politics.

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