No newspapers for Dr M
Malaysiakini
Nov 11, 2006

Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who was warded at the Coronary Care Unit at the National Heart Institute (IJN) after suffering from a mild heart attack two days ago, was transferred to the normal ward last night.

His son Mukhriz (photo) said the family had disallowed the former premier to read newspapers temporarily and advised him to read only books to ensure his health remained good.

However, he declined to explain why this action was taken. Mahathir, who is engaging in a war of words with his handpicked successor Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, has complained about being misrepresented by the mainstream media.

"He is now relaxing, but we are not providing any newspapers... Our focus now is to ensure Tun (Mahathir) fully recovers," he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

"We are very happy indeed and there are no signs of any negative effects from the medicine he is taking. However, we are unsure when he can be discharged," he added.

Mukhriz said the 81-year-old former premier had also regained his appetite and had porridge for dinner and at the time of the interview, was resting.

He did not rule out the possibility that the punishing schedule his father had been keeping and lack of rest had caused the mild heart attack.

"He (Mahathir) now is more aware that his health must take priority and should get more rest," he said.

Calls from well-wishers

Mukhriz also said the health of his mother Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamed Ali, who had constantly been by Mahathir’s side since he was admitted, also needed to be monitored and that the children would ensure she got adequate rest.

Mukhriz said he received 800 SMS and many calls yesterday from well-wishers praying for Mahathir's quick recovery.

"I wish to apologise for being unable to thank each and everyone for their kind gesture. Please accept this thank you from me," he said.

On the Umno general assembly which begins on Monday, Mukhriz said he would be attending it as a non-speaking delegate and would not be involved in any of the debates.

He is a committee member of the Kubang Pasu Umno division in Kedah and also an exco member of Umno Youth.