4 LUFTAN JAEZ-Ruling Ideas and Leadership Styles of ... · 1/4/2015 · anxiety among the leaders...

Southeast Asian Journal of Social and Political Issues, Vol. 1, No. 3, March 2013 | 271

SEAJ-SPI

ISSN 2088-2955

Vol. 1, No. 3 (March 2013):271-291 Ruling Ideas and Leadership Styles of Mahathir-Suharto in Developing

Their Nations and Creating Mutual Regional Understandings from the

Eyes of Lee Kuan Yew

Lutfan Jaes and Azizi Basar

(Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor Darul Takzim,

Malaysia)

Abstract

The purpose of this writing is about the development discourse involving the idea of

effective ruling ideas and leadership style in the development process of a country. Lee

Kuan Yew (LKY), Suharto and Mahathir successfully mobilize pragmatic actions to

achieve their mission and vision. They took upon the democratic spirit of the west in

accordance to their cultures. Their leadership ability led the community to grow from one

level to another level is an achievement unparalleled neither by any contemporary leader

nor at the present time. By looking at the ruling ideas and leadership style of Mahathir-

Suharto in the eyes of LKY is considered as a unique approach. This is because LKY has

the political experience of nearly 60 years (1955-2011) to make it a political figure "to

skip age and across the centuries". LKY has its own opinion on every world leader.

Mahathir in Tom Plate (2012; p 110) cynically stated that "People look at him (LKY) as

an intellectual, as something more than just an ordinary politician, so he’s always invited

to give his views on things, and to that extend he is something bigger than Singapore”.

He guided Singapore into a developed nation after Singapore separated by Malaysia.

Indeed, the history of Malaysia and Indonesia cannot be separated with LKY. He

continued relevance in the local and international political arena when he was appointed

as Senior Minister (1990-2004) and Minister Mentor (2004-2011). Michael Vatikiotis

(1994) in his book, Indonesian Politics Under Suharto described these three great figures;

Suharto greatest service is to create stability in Indonesia which lead to and increased

Singapore and Malaysia. This stability had increase economic growth whereby Indonesia,

Malaysia and Singapore are called the “East Asia Miracle”. Hopefully through LKY

unique view, a new perspective related to the ruling ideas and leadership styles can be

acquired by next generation.

Keywords: Ruling Ideas, Leadership Style, Lee Kuan Yew, Mahathir, Suharto


A. INTRODUCTION

Lee Kuan Yew (LKY) is one of South East Asia’s greatest nationalist. He is able

to mobilise pragmatic actions along with his effective leadership style and ideas in order

to fulfill a vision within the context of a developed Singapore. With a track record of 60

years1 in politics, no one would be at par with his credibility and achievements as a

nationalist2 of Singapore in particular and South East Asia in general. Under his great

leadership, the people of Singapore are able to progress and stepped up into a significant

level of their own. He guided Singapore to progress3 succesfully; within the situation of

Singapore separated from its ”rurality”4 in the form of Malaysia.

The history of Malaysia in particular and Indonesia in general could not be

detached with this towering character. He is the “frequent menace” when he was in the

Malaysian Parliament (1963-1965). His concept of Malaysian Malaysia has caused

anxiety among the leaders of the ruling Alliance5; party especially Tunku Abdul Rahman

and Tun Abdul Razak at that time. Mahathir, being a Member of Parliament (1964-1969)

in his first term himself, unofficially being the “fighting cock” of the Government to

debate LKY excellent and didactic arguments.

Even though he stepped down as Prime Minister in 1990, LKY continues to be

relevant in Singapore and the international political arena. He was elected as Senior

Minister (1990-2004) and as a Mentor Minister (2004-2011). His perspectives of other

world leaders, in retrospect of his formal role and his personal views, indirectly have shed

many lights throughout the years. Until now, his ever popular ideology and concept of

Malaysian Malaysia is widely spoken and debated even though Singapore is no longer

part of Malaysia. The idealism is inherited upon by a select group of political parties in

Malaysia until now. Mahathir in Tom Plate (2010; p. 87) stated;

“People look at him as an intellectual, as something more than just an

ordinary politician, so he’s always invited to give his views on things, and to that

extent he is something bigger than Singapore. The fact remains that he is the

mayor of Singapore.”

This writing is looking into two (2) matters namely a) the basis of LKY’s stance

and ruling ideas of governance and leadership in a country and also b) LKY’s

perspectives on governance and leadership styles and ideas of Mahathir and Suharto.

Through his diverse views, a conclusion of Mahathir-Suharto “ruling ideas” may be

1 LKY was born on 16 September 1923 and started his political career in April 1955 as Tanjung Pagar MP under

People’s Action Party (PAP) ticket . He became the first Prime Minister of Singapore (5 June 1959 – 28 November

1990), Senior Minister (28 November 1990 – 12 August 2004) dan Mentor Minister (12 August 2004 – 21 May 2011). 2 Writer thinks Tun Mahathir of Malaysia and Presiden Suharto of Indonesia are the ones who are able to be of equals

with him in South East Asia. King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand also has his own great abilities in his constitution. 3 Further reading : - Lee, K. Y. (2000). From Third World To First- The Singapore Story : 1965-2000 Memoirs of Lee

Kuan Yew. Singapore : Marshall Cavendish Edition 4 On the 9th August 1965, Parliament of Malaysia officially voted Singapore off the Federation of Malaysia . Singapore

became an independent and sovereign Republic state. 5 The Alliance Party is a coalition of political parties that represent multiracial demography of Malaysia. It is a

dominant party and maintained its majority support from the people with its fight towards independence of Malaya and

Malaysia from British colonialism. It is now known as the National Front (Barisan Nasional).


achieved and can be a guide in the future. It is also important to ‘read’ and look into the

leadership capability in Malaysia and in Indonesia from the perspective of a Singaporean

leader. It is more satisfying to know our own leader according to a viewpoint of “friend”

and “enemy” so that it could bring something good for the future.

B. DEFINITION OF “RULING IDEAS”

Governance ideas or known as “ruling ideas”; is used by Karl Marx in The

German Ideology (1945). According to Marx,6 “ruling ideas” belongs to the select group

of bourgeoisie of which they would influence and be in control of the proletariat’s ways

of thinking until as if all forms of oppression carried out by them will look permissible

through certain rationales. The original concept championed by Marx as follows:

“The ideas of the ruling class are in every epoch the ruling ideas, i.e. the

class which is the ruling material force of soceity, is at the same time its ruling

intellectual force. The class which has the means of material production at its

disposal has control at the same time over the means of mental production, so that

thereby, generally speaking, the ideas of those who lack the means of mental

production are subject to it. The ruling ideas are noting more then the ideal

expression of the dominant material relationships, the dominant material

relationships grasped as ideas; hence of the relationships which make the one

class the ruling one, therefore, the ideas of its dominance”.

Karl Marx’s arguments are based on materialism dialectics, conflict between the upper-

tier of society, the owner class and the labour class, which sits in the middle and often

bottom half of the society. This owner class with their material power would exhibit and

exploit the labour class, only to fulfill their material and intellectual wealth (Abdul

Rahman, 2009; p. 3).

The “ruling ideas” concept by Karl Marx is “held tight” and firmly understood by

LKY in his views and actions when he was in the Federation of Malaysia and also after

Singapore became an independent country. LKY “purposely failed” to see the “ruling

ideas” that must be adjusted and adapted to the historical background, development and

demographic of the Malay Archipelago. He only wanted to view Singapore as part of

British colonialism7 and wanted the application of his “ruling ideas” to be spread

throughout the Malay archipelago especially in Malaysia.

In relation to this, the situation of the Malay community in Malaysia and

Indonesian was not as tight and precise as what Marx has analyzed because the leaders

whom appeared during the Sultanate reign or even after independence, were strongly

influenced by Malay culture and practices and teachings of the religion (Hindhu, Buddha,

Islam). They lead the community in order to provide comfortable living and better

opportunities in the future. Thus, the “ruling ideas” in Malaysia and Indonesian should be

6 http://wwsword.blogspot.com/2008/06/ideas-of -ruling-are-in-every.html 7 Around the 14th century, the island of Singapore is part of the Srivijaya kingdom and was known as Temasek ("Sea

Town")


seen in their own mould with political and historical background, economy, social and

styles and the values of the Malay civilization, Malay-Islam and The Country Principles /

Pancasila. Religion guidance and values of the civilization become an instrumental

control to direct the leaders and their leaderships in Malaysia and Indonesia8 since the

beginning of time. Hence, the “ruling ideas” could be viewed as a borrowed term (from

West) only for the leaders to dissect and understand the major ideas of an authority. This

is because the ideas of the “lead players” that set the tone for the rules of governance.

C. LKY AND RULING IDEAS

It is important to understand LKY’S stance and ideology of which form his ruling

ideas in Singapore and also through his views to see the ruling ideas of Mahathir-Suharto.

The basic ideas of his political opinion can be traced back as early as when Singapore

was still part of the Malaysian Federation in 1963. Basic variations in terms of ruling

ideas in nation building between LKY and Tunku Abdul Rahman had resulted to

Singapore's removal from Malaysian Federation. LKY in his biography, Lee Kuan Yew:

Hard Truth To Keep Singapore Going (2011) emphasized;

“My fundamental belief is that whatever your background, you should

have an equal chance in life, in education, in helth, in nutrition. So you may not be

as well-fed with all the meat and vitamins as a wealthier person, but you should

have enough to make sure that you’re not stunted, so you can perform and achieve

your best in life. That’s the only way a soceity can grow. I am against a soceity

which has no sense of nurturing its best to rise to the top. I’m against a feudal

soceity where your birth decides where you stay in the pecking order.”

(Han Fook Kwang et. al, 2011; p. 50)

LKY sees the political hegemony and Malay rule as something which is racist and unfair.

He sees justice within the context “perfect competition” between the races. LKY do not

want to understand concept “The Sovereignty of Malay Rulers” which already cemented

its place as part of a great civilization and culture dated since the 2nd Century.9 He

“failed” to understand “majority concept” and that some race should be given “special

assistance” because they are seen as being left behind from other race in the trend of

colonisation development.

“Role”, “existence”, “effort” and “contribution” LKY, his father (Lee Chin

Koon)10

and his grandfather (Lee Hoon Leong)11

in Singapore gave him “sense” and

“meaning” that there should be no difference between him and other races especially the

Malays. It is clearly indicated in the memoir, recorded after Singapore was voted out of

the Malaysian Federation as follows:

8 especially Mahathir (the Malays) and Suharto (the Javanese) 9 just saying some ancient Malay kingdom like; Minanga, Kedah, Srivijaya, Dharmasraya, Singhasari, Majapahit,

Pagaruyung and Malacca 10 born in Semarang 11 Lee Hoon Leong is LKY paternal grandfather who was born in Singapore. While the maternal grandfather of Kin

Chua Teng also born in Singapore (chronology of the family in Malacca) and married Neo Ah Soon from Pontianak


“I was weighed down by a heavy sense of guilt. I felt I had let down

several million people in Malaysia: immigrant Chinese and Indians, Eurasians,

and even some Malays. I had aroused their hopes, and they had joined people in

Singapore in resisting Malay hegemony, the root cause of our dispute. I was

ashamed that I had left our allies and supporters to fend for themselves, including

party leaders from other states of Malaysia – Sabah, Sarawak, Penang, Perak,

Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.

(LKY, 1998 ; p. 16-17)

The most effective platform for LKY to spark his “ruling ideas” at that time, was

at the Malaysian Parliament. LKY stated:

“I drew a distinction between political equality and the special rights for

the economic and social uplift of the Malays. I accepted the special rights, but if

the other peoples of Malaysia were denied political equality with the Malays, we

would not need Sukarno and Confrontation to crush us. Waving a copy of the

Malaysian constitution in my right hand, I said, “Once you throw this into the fire

and say ‘be done with it’, that means you do it for a long time; and history is a

long, relentless process.”

(LKY, 1998 ; p. 610)

Through his experience as a lawyer, working with various and multi-racial workers’ has

helped mold his attitude and his own ruling ideas. Not to forget his bold stance of going

against Communist’s influence in Singapore, whether outside his political party or within

PAP itself, can be lauded as a great contribution towards the British, Malaya and the

entire South East Asian region. In one of his last words during his time in the Parliament

of Malaysia, before Singapore separated from Malaya;

“If we delude people into believing that they are poor becuse there are no

Malay right or because opposition members oppose Malay rights, where are we

going to end up? You let people in the kampongs believe that they are poor

because we don’t speak Malay, because the government does not write in Malay,

so he expects a miracle to take place in 1967 (the year Malay would become the

national and sole official language). The moment we all start speaking Malay, he

is going to have an uplift in the standard of living, and if it doesn’t happen, what

happens then?....Meanwhile, whenever there is a failure of economic, social and

educational policies, you come back and say, oh, these wicked Chinese, Indians

and others opposing Malay right. They don’t oppose Malay rights. They, the

Malays, have the right as Malaysian citizens to go up to the level of training and

education that the more competitive soceities, the non-Malay soceity, has

produced. That is what must be done, isn’t it? Not to feed them with this

obscurantist doctrine that all they have got to do is to get Malay rights for a few

special Malays and their problem has been resolved.......”

(LKY, 1998 ; hal 612-613)


D. RULING IDEAS AND MAHATHIR’S LEADERSHIP STYLES FROM

THE EYES OF LKY

As genuine a politician, LKY should know closely the background and what type

of political opponent he is facing. This is important to manage the variety of needs

especially his political needs. Regarding Mahathir, LKY states;

He was different from his predecessors. The Tunku, Razak and Hussein

Onn were from the aristocracy or the traditional ruling families associated with

the sultans. Like me. Mahathir is a commoner-a trained profesional doctor and

self-made politician. I believed I had satisfied him that I was not interested in

outmanoeuvring him, that I wanted a businesslike relationship. It was as well I

initiated this dialogue and developed a working relationship. Had we carried our

old antagonisms into the future, both countries would have suffered.

(LKY, 2010; p. 276-7)

In many ways, Mahathir can be regarded as LKY main political enemy, whether

when Singapore was within Malaysia or when Singapore was issued from the Malaysian

Federation. LKY got to know Mahathir formally in year 1965 when a debate on Yang Di-

Pertuan Agong in the Malaysian Parliament given by Mahathir, LKY recorded;

.....Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad, an UMNO MP (later, prime minister of

Malaysia), denounced the PAP in the federal parliment as “pro-Chinese,

communist-oriented and positively anti-Malay”, saying Singapore had retained

multilingualism while paying only lip-service to the national language, and that

“In some police station, Chinese is the official language, and statements are taken

in the Chinese.” The national language schools, he said, were the worst-treated on

the island, and until very recently had been given only the most primitive

facilities. “In industry, the PAP policy is to encourage Malays to become

labourers only but Malays are not given facilities to invest as well”

(LKY, 1998 ; p. 608-610)

LKY stated that Mahathir was very direct and unapologetic in his anti-Singapore views.

Mahathir was candid about his deep anti-Singapore feelings. He recounted

how, as a medical student in Singapore, he had directed a Chinese taxi driver to

the home of a lady friend, but had taken to the servants’ quaters of this house. It

was an insult he did not forget. Singapore Chinese, he said, looked down upon the

Malays.

(LKY, 2010 ; p. 276)

LKY’S getting to know and read Mahathir’s thinking, he expected different

leadership styles compared to the Malaysian leaders before him but he inherited the same

ruling ideas of the Prime Minister of Malaya before. It snarls with idealism to defend the

sovereignty of Malay hegemony of which LKY viewed as clear, aggressive and ultra. He

records that of a follow up meeting and a positive return visit between Mahathir and him

as he hoped to avoid any suspicious feeling.

I expected Mahathir to succeed Hussein as Prime Minister and wanted to

put our old antagonism behind us. I knew he was a fierce and dogged fighter. I

had seen the way he had fought the Tunku when the Tunku was at the height of


his power. He had been expelled from UMNO but that did not deter him from

carrying on the fight. I was not unwilling to clash with him when we were in

Malaysia, but feuding between two sovereign states was different. I initiated this

dialogue to clear away the debris of the past.

(LKY, 2010; p. 275)

Mahathir’s consistency in his stance championing the Malay hegemony12

caught

LKY’s attention in his memoir;

In May that year (1999) Malaysian opposition leader, Lim Kit Siang,

revived the concept Malaysian Malaysia. Mahathir reacted sharply to say it was a

threat to their (Malay) identity, becuse Malaysia was previously called Tanah

Melayu (Malay land).

(LKY, 2010; p. 286)

Meanwhile, LKY in relation to tragedy of the 13th May 1969 racial riot between

the Malays and the Chinese in Malaysia;

Four month after the riots, I called in the Tunku at his high

commissioner’s residence in Singapore. He looked depressed, showing the effect

of a harrowing experience. He had been openly attacked in a widely circulated

letter by Dr Mahathir Mohamad for having sold out the country to the Chinese.

(LKY, 2010; p. 265)

LKY thinks that Mahathir, at the beginning of his term as a Prime Minister,

behaved too direct in his words and actions. Among them, when he asked LKY to remove

the SAF (Singapore Arm Forces) from water supply pipelines from Johore to

Singapore13

. Mahathir also requested LKY to severe political ties with Chinese leaders in

Malaysia especially from DAP (Democratic Action Party). However, LKY admitted that

Mahathir suggests more intimate relations between the two countries (Malaysia-

Singapore) that commonly share most part of the history. The significant change of

policy was the initial step among many by Mahathir. LKY quoted;

During our one meeting (Disember 1981), he (Mahathir) said people in

Johor were jealous of Singapore. He advised me to lessen the envy by socialising

at an official level. I said his foreign ministry, Wisma Putra, had objected to such

fraternising. He said he would tell them this was his proposal.

(LKY, 2010; p. 277)

Bilateral issue between Malaysia and Singapore at the beginning Mahathir’s rule

(1981) reflected by LKY as going well. The “round table discussion” approach became

the formula to both leaders. Issues involving Pedra Branca14

, Tanjong Pagar15

train station,

Singapore defence system and water supply to Singapore were settled amicably. In fact,

12 Issues related to sovereignty and Malay hegemony in this paper is an abstract. This issue would require a much more

specific discourse to be discussed. 13 LKY said that Singapore needs to put soldiers in sewerage water-Malaysian Johor contigency for later in the day if

Malaysia suddenly dominated by extremists and ultra-Malays. 14 also known as Pulau Batu Puteh by Johor government but ultimately owned by Singapore after the island

overlapping claims is determined by the International Court. 15 In Dato' Seri Najib era (now Prime Minister), Malaysia agreed to transfer the Malayan Railway station Berhad

Tanjong Pagar to Woodlands Train Checkpoint.


LKY also revealed that one of the earliest move carried out by Mahathir was to withdraw

the sanction imposed for building materials to be exported to Singapore. This policy

change was not publicly announced but Mahathir allegedly told the authorities in Johor

about this matter16

.

After a while, LKY sees Mahathir as being more pragmatic. Many decisions

carried out by Mahathir were seen like a prejudice towards Singapore and helped increase

the Malaysian income in an easy way. Malaysia’s decision to put a levy of RM100 to all

vehicles entering Singapore together with food from Malaysia in January 1984 was seen

“hurting” Singapore. LKY also disputed and claimed that Malaysia under Mahathir took

actions that do not encourage the relocation of industries from Singapore to Malaysia by

Japanese and American multinational companies17

. In fact in October 1984, Malaysian

government has slashed the import duty of various food items which are imported

directly to Malaysia. These decisions were deemed impartial towards Singapore, which

all this while was very dependent on tertiary industries (banking, port and others) and

product reprocessing before becoming finished goods and being marketed.

LKY is also interested with Mahathir’s effort to tackle graft especially among top

party leaders in UMNO. Graft can ruin and destroy the whole nation. In regards of this

issue, LKY stated that;

In Malaysia, UMNO leaders call it “money politics”. In his speech to party

delegates in October 1996 Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad noted that some

cadidates vying for higher positions had been “offering bribes and gifts to

delegates” in exchange for votes. Dr Mahathir deplored the practice of money

politics and was moved to tears as he urge party delegates “not to let bribery

destroy the Malay race, religion and nation”.

(LKY, 2010; p. 190)

When Singapore strives to become developed nation, one of the important things

considered by LKY was the cleanliness movement and greenness (clean and green

movement) environment. This effort became increasingly exciting when Mahathir was

also seen striving to make Kuala Lumpur a clean and green city;

. Our biggest divident was when Asian leaders decided to compete in the

greening of their cities. Malaysia’s Dr Mahathir, who had stayed at the Istana

Villa in he 1970s, asked me how I got the Istana lawns to be so green. When he

become prime minister, he greened up Kuala Lumpur.

(LKY, 2010; p. 204)

Although generally LKY tagged Mahathir as a Malay ultra, but from another side,

he pictures Mahathir as a dynamic and well-visionary leader. In a perspective which

involves Malay people's capability, LKY recorded that;

He wrote, “Whatever the Malays could do the Chinese could do better and

more cheaply”, and “they resulted from two entirely different sets of hereditary

16 that the affairs of the export jurisdiction of the Federal and State Government has no power connected. Please see

LKY, 2010, p 277 and 228 for more information. 17 Japanese and American multinationals have electronic assembly plant in Malaysia. Then the electronic parts are

shipped knocked down to Singapore for a more complex process.


and environmental influences”. Years later, in 1997, when he was Malaysia prime

minister, Dr Mahathir said he had reversed his stand and no longer believed what

he wrote in The Malay Dilemma.

(LKY, 1998 ; p. 441)

When Mahathir unifies time interval between West Malaysia and East Malaysia,

LKY also unified the time in Singapore18

. LKY admires Mahathir, who wants to learn

good things from Singapore. LKY recalled the matter by stating;

“He (Mahathir) had asked his ministers and officers to learn from

Singapore. No other Malaysia prime minister or minister had ever publicly said

they had anything to learn from Singapore; Mahathir did not suffer from this

inhibition. This open minded attitude of learning from anyone whose success he

wanted to duplicate in Malaysia distinguished him from his predecessors.”

(LKY, 2000; p. 277)

Shortly after, our high commission in Kuala Lumpur reported a

perceptible improvement in attitudes among Malaysian ministers, MPs and civil

servant toward Singapore. They were willing to learn from Singapore and were

open about it. They praised Changi Airport and hoped that Subang would be half

as good. There were increased visits to Singapore to study our productivity, urban

planning and other matters.

(LKY, 2000; p. 278)

The efforts from Mahathir to show the Malays that they need to wake up and

strive by applying science and technology and not trapped with religious practices which

are vague, that LKY sees as something that is extraordinary;

“He had pushed the Malays towards science and technology and away

from obscurantism. He had the courage to say in public that lady doctor using a

pencil to examine a male patient (which the Muslim religious leaders wanted) was

not the way to treat patients.....he had educated younger Malays, open their minds

with the vision of the future based on science and technology, especially

computers and the internet......The majority of the Malays and all the Chinese and

Indians in Malaysia want this future, not a turn towards extreme Islamic

practices.”

(LKY, 2000; p. 290)

“Mahathir was ditermined to redress the economic balance between the

races.......Only Mahathir had the courage to tell his Malays....”

(LKY, 2000; p. 287)

LKY also acknowledges it was quite difficult to deal with Malaysia under the Mahathir

era in a relationship which involves interests from both sides. Mahathir allegedly was

very critical in discussing certain issues especially those snarling with economic field,

importance of port and security. Definitely tight situations happened and various

considerations were taken into account when dealing these issues.

18 Please refer to LKY, 2000; p. 277


At the same time, Mahathir's willingness to seek help from his “enemy”19

in

building the economy of Malays puzzled LKY himself. Mahathir in this matter asked

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Malaysia to help Bumiputra

entrepreneurs who were losing their business, to rebuild their business.20

Tun Dr.

Mahathir’s capacity to bring Malaysia from a mediocre level into a significant level from

the past (agricultural economy to economic industry) with the construction of various

landmarks and world class infrastructures gained admirations from LKY.

LKY admits that no leaders would be of equal to Mahathir (in Malaysia)

especially in difficult and challenging situations21

. Mahathir’s courage and outspoken

character especially on the international stage in championing something that he believed

in, really amazed LKY. For example, LKY remember this matter in particular with the

experience when dealing with the Australia and New Zealand leaderships.

.......when Australia and New Zealand wanted to join the Asia side of the

Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) of heads of government in Bangkok in 1996,

Prime Minister Mahathir objected, saying they were not a part of Asia. It was his

visceral reaction, one not shared by most of the other leaders.

(LKY, 2010; p. 445)

In a seminar organised in National University Singapore on 24th of July 199022

, LKY

voiced his opinion;

Dr. Mahathir is strong in a different way. From time to time, he

deliberately chooses to speak a little louder, and his political opponents have

discovered that he wields the stick like a tok guru silat.

(Seow, 2010; p. 313)

The way Mahathir single-handedly steered Malaysia throughout the financial crisis that

struck in 1997-1999 was vividly remembered and monitored closely by LKY himself.

Prime Minister Mahathir of Malaysia was diminished by the Western

media headlining his denunciations against currency speculators and Jews like

George Soros.

(LKY, 2010; p. 384)

As the crisis spread, in July Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir

denounced George Soros as the speculator responsible. Then Bank Negara

Malaysia announced changes limiting the amout of Malaysian ringgit that could

be swapped into foreign currencies.

In September 1997, at an IMF/World Bank meeting of international

bankers in Hong Kong, Mahathir said. “Currency trading is unnecessary,

unproductive and totally immoral. It should be stop. It should be made illegal.”

Another sell-out of all Asean currencies and stocks followed.

19 In this case LKY consider Mahathir denying equal opportunities to the Chinese in particular in the field of business. 20 LKY dedicate this in his autobiography. Please read more Lee. K. Y. (2000). From Third World To First - The

Singapore Story: 1965-2000. Singapore: Marshall Cavendish 21 LKY referring to the dismissal and arrest of Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim 22 The seminar related to "Differences Between Leadership Style Tunku Abdul Rahman and President Suharto"


(LKY, 2010; p. 386)

The ruling ideas of Mahathir era also enables Singapore, under LKY leadership to expand

steadily as a result of having a good competitor. It is duly acknowledged by LKY himself;

Mahathir wanted Malaysia to excel, with better airport and container port.

A bigger financial centre and a “Multi-media Super Corridor”. He has built up-to-

date container wharves at Port Kelang and new super airport 75 kilometres south

Kuala Lumpur. This made us re-examine our competitiveness, improve our

infrastructure and work smarter to increase our productivity.

(LKY, 2010; p. 289)

In his speech during Singapore’s Independence Day on the 26th August 1990, he wrote;

Our good fortune has been that Dr Mahathir ....has the strength to override

the hang-ups of his politicians and officials that arose out of the separation (of

Singapore from Malaysia).

(Seow, 2010; p. 313)

In year 1986, President Israel made an official visit to Singapore on the invitation

of the Singapore President. The event had aroused uneasy feelings from the government

led by Mahathir let alone Malaysians, which clearly rejects the Zionist governance

imposed on the Palestinian land. Demonstration and protest were staged by Malaysians.

In this matter, LKY and his government were clearly insensitive and did not take into

account the sentiment of its neighbours;

I (LKY) told our high commissioner to explain that we had announced the

visit and could not cencel it without damage to ourselves. Mahathir recalled the

Malaysian high commissioner in Singapore for the duration of President Herzog's

visit, saying that relations with Singapore were no longer as good, but the ties

were far from tense.

(LKY, 2010; p. 280)

Finally from time to time, LKY claimed that any issues which arose between

Malaysia and Singapore; that Malaysia wanted a “brotherly styled solution” which

requires “younger brother” (Singapore) always give in or respecting the request from the

big brother (Malaysia). Cynically LKY stated;

When non-vital interests were at stake, we were prepared to humour

"abang", but not when "adik" had legitimate interests to defend, as in the next

issue that arose-Malays in the SAF in Singapore.

(LKY, 2010; p. 280)

LKY claimed that his relationship with Mahathir turned to the worst especially with the

President of Israel’s visit to Singapore;

Later, in October 1987, I met Mahathir at the Commonwelth Heads of

Government Meeting in Vancouver. He said that all the things he had wanted to

do in cooperation with me had gone wrong.

(LKY, 2010; p. 281)


E. RULING IDEAS AND SUHARTO’S LEADERSHIP STYLES FROM THE

EYES OF LKY

LKY recalled Suharto’s personality as;

I saw him a careful, thoughtful man, the exact opposite of Sukarno. He

was no extrovert. He did not set out to impress people with his oratory or his

medals, although he had many. He maintained a humble, friendly appearance, but

was clearly a tough-minded man who would brook no opposition to what he set

out to do.

(LKY, 2010; p. 302)

In his speech during Singapore’s Independence Day on 26 August 1990, LKY stated that;

It is our singular good fortune that President Suharto took over from

President Sukarno. It would have been totally different Southeast Asia, had we

had a second Sukarno.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

LKY thinks that Suharto is not a type of leader who tends to succeed on

landmarks or to form an empire. He is sincere to lead the country in his own way. In an

Independence Day speech series dated 26th of August 1990 he said ;

One man, his attitude, his approach, his philosophy of development

changed the history of Southeast Asia. He was not interested in building an

empire.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

LKY in an interview with the journalist- Abdul Kadir Jasin for the New Straits Times

Malaysia stated;

Straight dealing depends on personal chemestry, plus a word, once given it

has never been broken by either side. Over the years I can say that there has not

been any breach of confidence. This has led to a relationship of trust and

confidence.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

LKY also remembered Suharto as a good listener, very historicism and behaving

Java (quite central Javanese ways). They substantially share the same opinion on specific

issues involving regional and international issues23

. LKY managed to state that Suharto

also believed in “supernatural force” (supernatural) which in a way give a conviction on

himself and whatever decision he has carried out. Suharto looked comfortable conversing

in Indonesian language with LKY, he seldom take note and like to discuss with the

concept “four eyed meeting” in whatever case

When we meet, we talked directly and simply, no beating about the bush.

It’s a four-eyes meeting, that the purpose of a four-eyes meeting.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

LKY admires Suharto’s greatness and cunning abilities in his early years of his

rule as an excellent action. In fact, the transition between Sukarno to Suharto wrote by

23 In particular American intervention in Vietnam and Cambodia and Selat Melaka issues.


LKY as something that is subtle and unique. LKY quote lengthily;

Suharto played it out slowly and subtly, like an Indonesian wayang kulit, a

performance with puppets shown in silhouette as shadows on the screen. So

carefully was this shadow play choreographed, so gradual the moves to strip

Sukarno of authority, for some time we did not see that power had already shifted

away from Sukarno to Suharto.

(LKY, 2010; p. 296)

In March 1966 Sukarno signed a presidential decree that gave General

Suharto power to take all necessary steps to guarantee security and preserve

stability. I was still not sure that Sukarno was out, such was his charismatic hold

on his people.

. (LKY, 2010; p. 296)

Suharto is a person who speaks his mind. LKY portrayed Suharto as a leader who is

focused to develop Indonesia and not to resort into international intervention in particular.

Lengthily LKY accentuated Suharto’s personality as follows;

It was our good fortune that the character, temperament and objectives of

President Suharto allowed me to develop good personal relations with him. He is

quite man, courteous and punctilious on form and protocol. His character is in

keeping with the way he carefully probed and assessed my position before my

visit to Jakarta. After our second meeting, we had confidence in each other. As we

met over the years, I found him to be a man of his work. He made few promises,

but delivered whatever he had promised. His forte was his consistency. He is three

years older than me, broad-faced, broad nosed, with somewhat taciturn expression

until he got to know one, when he would smile frequently and easily. He enjoys

his food, especially desserts, but made an effort to control his weigh through

walking and golf. Although he speaks calmly and softly, he became quite

animated once he gets going on an important subject. He is not intellectual, but he

had the ability to select able economist and administrators to be his ministers.

(LKY, 2010; p. 305)

In Suharto’s era, LKY expected economic prosperity and security which could

bring direct impact on Singapore. Although by externally, LKY looked to be “hopping

mad” on Malaysia but indirectly, LKY was more worried by what Indonesia was capable

off. LKY knew the unexpected real strength of Suharto. In a seminar organised by

Singapore National University Political Association on the 24th of July 1990, LKY states

that;

Whoever meets him (Suharto) cannot doubt the strength in the men.

Behind the gentle, smiling appearance is decisiveness and determination. And it is

not necessary for him to carry a big stick because his key ministers and his Armed

Forces chief do not allow their President’s rulings to be flouted.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

In various biographical records and the autobiography, LKY often reflect on

Indonesian role and Suharto’s guarantee not to snarl with colonial territory, issues on the

waters of Straits of Melaka, the archipelago concept in Malay archipelago (archipelago


concept) and deep-oil exploration claims. In a statement LKY (from his many statements)

quite lacily, he quote;

Suharto made clear his determination to get Indonesia moving after 20

years of neglect. He said he appreciated that Singapore could assist in this

Herculean task of rebuilding Indonesia and recognised the quality of the

Singapore leadership. He gave me the impression that he was likely to treat us

correctly, even cordially, based on a realistic assessment of the relative strengh

and weaknesses of our two countries.

(LKY, 2010; p. 301)

......He (Suharto) made clear that Indonesia had no claims to Singapore or

Malaysia and claimed only those territories that had belonged to the Dutch East Indies.

(LKY, 2010; p. 301)

Sustainable development also attracted LKY’s attention towards Suharto;

President Suharto pushed greening in Jakarta, as did President Marcos in

Manila and Prime Minister Thanin in Bangkok, all in the late 1970s. I encouraged

them, reminding them that they had a greater variety of trees and similar

favourable climate.

(LKY, 2010; p. 204)

In a collaborative context and regional security, the role of Suharto and Indonesia

could not be disputed. In the effort to maintain order and peaceful summits and meetings,

the ASEAN conference in Manila (December 1987), Indonesian has been instrumental by

deploying assistance in the form of war ships, helicopter cover and a team of rescuer

commando24

. This team was mobilised especially at Manila Bay in tackling any trouble

that would occur including rescue missions of leaders including LKY. LKY remembered

this and records;

Without President Suharto’s firm support, the summit would have been

postponed and confident in Aquino’s25 government undermined. The Philippine

government agreed that the responsibility for security should be shared between

them and to the Asean government, in particular the Indonesian government.

(LKY, 2010; p. 340)

In the Suharto era, Indonesia would recognise “new family” and “old family” of

Asean unconditionally and without any malice. This was proven when Suharto took full

responsibility to terminate the confrontation that happened between Malaysia and

Indonesian, of which was an aggressive policy implemented under the leadership of

Sukarno. In Bruneian acceptance p. on the other hand as new member in Asean26

, LKY

recorded his experience with Suharto as follows;

In 1980 I had raised with President Suharto the question of Brunei’s

24 Led by General Benny Moerdani 25 “Maria Corazon Sumulong Cojuangco” also known as Corazon Aquino; is the eleventh (11) President of Philippines

Filipina ke sebelas (11) replacing Ferdinand Marcos. Her position as the President was unstable and recieved various

threats from inside and outside of the country.. 26 On 4th January 1979, Brunei and the United Kingdom have signed a Cooperation and Friendship. On 1 January 1984,

Brunei Darussalam has achieved full independence.


possible membership of Asean when it became independent. Suharto said he

would welcome Brunei if it wanted to join.

(LKY, 2010; p. 345)

As a big country and “looking” powerful, Suharto’s leadership provides an Indonesia

which is comfortable and pleasant for his neighbours. Asean and other Southeast Asian

countries did not feel threatened with Indonesian presence. LKY quote;

The role of Presiden Suharto was crucial for the success of Asean....Under

Suharto, Indonesian did not act like hegemon. It did not insist on its point of view

but took into consideration the policies and interest of the other members. This

made it possible for the others to accept Indonesia as first among equals.

(LKY, 2010; p. 370)

On the international arena (Asean), Sukarno’s leadership exemplified how a

military leadership can adapt and be adjusted into a civil leadership to run a country. This

is recognised and suggested by LKY himself. In LKY’s record, in relation to Myanmar

When General Than Shwe, the Myanmar prime minister and chairman of

SLORC27

, visited Singapore in Jun 1995, I suggested that he visit Indonesia to

learn how it changed from military leadership, with General Suharto in charge, to

an elected presidency. The Indonesian constitution gave the army a direct role in

government, with representation in the legislature under a system called dwi-

fungsi (two fuctions). The Indonesian army had a constitutional role in ensuring

the security and integrity of the country. ......Myanmar had to go in that direction

if it wanted to be like the other countries in Southeast Asia.

(LKY, 2010; hal 363)

LKY’s initial hurdle when dealing with Suharto was in regards of the racial problems

(local ethnicity against Chinese immigrants) cultures and language. LKY describes these

issues;

Our friendship (LKY-Suharto) overcome the many prejudice between

Singaporeans of Chinese descent and Indonesians. Throughout the 1970s and 80s

we met almost every year to keep in touch, exchange views and discuss matters

that cropped up. I would explain that language and culture were difficult

emotional issues I had to handle sensitively.

(LKY, 2010; p. 306)

The Communist issue has become a “solidarity tool” to these two great leaders.

They share the same point of views and opinion especially the snarling Chinese

Communist clusters which triggered many problems in Indonesia and Singapore. Threat

and communist idealism unite LKY’s and Suharto’s opinions. In fact, their discussion

about communist issues in Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysian, Thailand and Southeast Asian

were in good tandem. In an event where Malaysian and Thailand governments recognized

and created diplomatic relationship with Beijing and Phnom Penh, Suharto’s frustration

Suharto was written by LKY;

27 State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC), replaced Burmese Socialist Programme Party (BSPP) – 1988

until 1997.


“Razak28

has visited Beijing in May 1974 and established diplomatik

relations. Malaysia had recognised the Khmer Rouge government in Phnom Penh

immediately after they captured it. With disappointment in his voice, Suharto said

he had told Razak of Indonesia’s bad experiences with Beijing, referring to

China’s support for the Indonesian Communist Party’s attempted coup in

September 1965.”

(LKY, 2000; p. 638)

“Then Kukrit29

visited Beijing in June 1975, two month after fall of

Saigon, and established diplomatic relations. Suharto saw things getting worse in

Malaysia and in Thailand”

(LKY, 2010; p. 303)

Suharto’s concern was allegedly visible with situation above. Due to this, LKY stated that

since then Singapore's relationship with Indonesia was close especially involving

intelligence (intelligence) to ensure economic development and guaranteed regional

security.

When talking about the fall of Suharto; LKY has his view which is fair,

interesting and distinctive. LKY described Suharto’s position as a Javanese king in

yesteryear which plays the role but very contra with call for democracy now30

. Suharto’s

failure to cover up the bad “image” of his children31

, which involved unlimited wealth

and foundation share ownership, doubled up LKY’s attention. In fact LKY stated “I did

not understand why his children needed to be so rich”32

Indonesia was a celebrated example of corruption on such a grand scale

that Indonesian media-men coined the acronym “KKN” for Kolusi (Collusion),

Korupsi (Corruption) and Nepotisme (Nepotism). President Suharto’s children,

friends and cronies set example that made KKN an irreducible part of Indonesian

culture.

(LKY, 2010; p. 191)

LKY thinks that KKN became the key factor behind Suharto’s fall from grace and the

angst of the general public. Suharto have been compared before with Marcos33 by Walter

Mondale34 but LKY defended Suharto’s credibility by arguing;

I (LKY) answered that Marcos might have started off as a hero but ended

up as a crook. Suharto was different. His heroes were not Washington or Jefferson

or Madison, but the sultans of Solo in central Java. Suharto’s wife had been a

28 The second Prime Minister of Malaysia and also the father of Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister Dato Seri Mohd Najib

bin Tun Abdul Razak 29 Kukrit Pramoj was Thailand’s thirteenth Prime Minister (1975-1976) 30 LKY noted that; Ibu Tien (Suharto's wife) seems incredulous when LKY expressed a desire to retire around

November 1990 when LKY is still healthy and three years younger than her husband. 31 LKY refers to Suharto's daughters who clearly with various jeweler while attending the wedding of Royal of Brunei. 32 LKY, 2010; p. 318 33 Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralin Marcos was the President of the Philippines from 1965-1986. Associated with various

squandering of money and property of the country. 34 Walter Frederick "Fritz" Mondale (born January 5, 1928) American politician from the Democratic Party and was the

42 Vice President of the United States (1977-1981) at the time of President Jimmy Carter.


minor princess of that royal family. As the president of Indonesia, he was a mega-

sultan of a mega-country. Suharto believed his children were entitled to be a

privileged as the princes and princesses of the sultans of Solo. He did not feel any

embarrassment at giving them privileges, because it was his right as a mega-sultan.

He saw himself as a patriot. I would not classify Suharto as a crook.

(LKY, 2010; p. 314)

Other factors that much connected with leadership fall Suharto definitely due to regional

economic crisis which hit around 1997-1999. Suharto’s failure and his cronies to

understand the international economic solution and foreign collaboration (International

Monetary Fund and high powers snarling with him) perceived as major failure.

Suharto’s problem had been compounded by the increasing intrusion of his

children into all lucrative contracts and monopolies. The IMF targeted several of

them for dismantling, including the clove monopoly and a national car monopoly

by his son Tommy, the power station contract to his daughter Tutut, and banking

licences to oher sons, to name just a few. Suharto could not understand why the

IMF wanted to interfere with his internal affairs. In fact these monopolies and

concessions had become major issues with the fund manager.

(LKY, 2010; p. 313)

In this matter LKY claimed, Singapore had committed the best assistance for Indonesia to

handle the currency crisis. He requested by the other neighbouring countries to advise

Suharto and his family. Some encounters with Suharto and the children (Tutut and Titiek)

provided by LKY with the Singapore Prime Minister at that time (Goh Chok Tong). LKY

tried to convince them how critical it is for the Indonesian economy and one of the major

steps is to wipe out monetary privileges and corporate entities which are related with the

family.

On 13th of January 2008 when he visited Suharto in Jakarta hospital, Channel

News Asia reported it. To reflect on LKY’s stance on Suharto in the fall of the Suharto

era;

I feel sad to see a very old friend with whom I had worked closely over the

last 30 years, not really getting the honours that he deserves. He deserves

recognition for what he did. The younger generations – both in Indonesia and in

the world – do not remember where Indonesia started. I do. That’s why I came

here to visit him.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

Yes, there was corruption. Yes, he gave favours to his family and his

friends. But there was real growth and real progress. I think the people of

Indonesia are lucky. They had a general in charge, had a team of competent

administration – including a very good team of economist to built up the country.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

I’m very sad to see his life come to an end without the full glory that he

deserves. There’s very few people of his age and my age who can remember the

past. And if they can remember the past, they will know that in the 1960s,

Indonesia was in very dire economic difficulties – hyperinflation like today’s


Zimbabwe.

(Seow, 2010; p. 317)

If President Suharto’s successors are like him, following the same basic

principles and policies, the Asean will thrive and prosper in peace.

(Seow, 2010; hal 316)

LKY in BBC (2008) said:

"Suharto bequeaths Southeast Asia that is peaceful and constructive. He

centres his attention to develop the economy, not landmark projects to make

Indonesia solely as big country. He deliberately reached to, the neighbouring

countries particularly Malaysia and Singapore that he wants peace, cooperation

and economic growth. For 30 years, President Suharto gives stability and

economic growth to Southeast Asia,"

F. ASIAN GIANTS : A LESSON AND CONCLUSION

Mahathir heads Malaysia towards modernity, which is rapid and prosperity in

every level of society. The best achievement is to maintain peace and stability in a

country which boasts multiple races by taking care of the Malay middle class35

. He is

strong advocate of “Asian values” namely autocratic capitalism as an alternative to the

United States’ individualism and neutral policy capitalism (laissez- faire). In the book A

New Deal of Asia, Mahathir stresses Asia cannot be shaped using the Western mould and

West image. Asia has its core values and strong identity. The elements and values of

Malay-Islam shape his policy and his ruling ideas. He champions Asian values with

regard of positive and negative cultural values in the community. Mahathir thinks that

Malay could only succeed if they practise values which are progressive. These values

include respecting the elders, administration and practise wearing modest clothing, good

behaviour and religious practice, responsible on marriage, family, work and qualities that

righteousness. Among values aspects stressed by Mahathir is oriented on community

values and family from individual interest; respect power owner especially the

relationship between parents and their children.

Such as LKY, Mahathir knew when he wants stop and finish his leadership work.

He heeds his mother's advice (Wan Tempawan) “Do not sit too long (in power) or people

will start to hate”. Mahathir stepped down from the post when he was still glorious and

needed. But he is not as good as LKY36

to run and endure his “retirement syndrome”37

.

To date, Mahathir continues to be outspoken and openly debates on something that is

good for Malaysia outside the executive and legislative radius.

35 However, he is always criticized on the autocratic style of rule and accused of cronyism. Please read Plates, T. (2011).

Conversation with Mahathir Mohamed: Doctor M: Operation Malaysia (Giant of Asia Series). Singapore: Mashall

Cavendish International (Asia) Pte Ltd 36 LKY still relevant in the local and international political arena. He was appointed as Senior Minister (1990-2004) and

Minister Mentor (2004-2011). It could immediately participate in the Singapore prime rule. 37 "Retirement Syndrome" is a term used by Zainuddin Maidin; a former journalist, Malaysia Figure Journalists,

Former Malaysian Information Minister and now the Karyawan Tamu of Institut Pemikiran Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad

(IPDM) Universiti Utara Malaysia.


. In Indonesia, a board study survey, Indonesia Barometer (IB) – Indonesian

Society Attitude Barometer38

discovered interesting findings. A study with sub subject

“The Best Order of Indonesian Government”39

retrieved that majority of people agreed

on the era of New Order under Suharto was better (40.9%) as compared to current

reformist era (22.8%) and the era of the Old Order under Sukarno (3.3%). Suharto sets

economic growth as his main task and the purpose of his ruling ideas. Indonesian

economy progressed at that time and managed to catch up with new Industrial countries

like Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand. To lead a moderate political scene, Suharto

unified political parties into three40

. Michael Vatikiotis (1998) in his book Indonesian

Politics Under Soeharto cited that Suharto’s biggest contribution is to become the figure

that created stability in Asian. Suharto was in power in the same moment Singapore is

ruled by LKY and Malaysian led Mahathir. Suharto’s efficacy created stability in

Indonesia and have resulted Singapore and Malaysia to grow steadily. The stability of this

big country directly increased Asian economic growth and spur Indonesia, Malaysian and

Singapore up until they were labelled as East Asia Miracle by World Bank. The failure of

Suharto at the end of his career was his failure to justify one of Asian values that exists in

a leadership namely, paternalistic (fatherly figure). The paternalistic element that thickens

(in match with Javanese value) was inconsistent with the will and the needs of

Indonesians at that time due to the worst economic crisis disaster (1997-1998).

The economic crisis which requires quick solution was not dealt seriously due to

the failure to understand the current demand and predict planned risks. The critical

situation of massive consequences was still dealt calmly using the method of “alus”,

“rukun”, hormat kalawan Gusti, Guru, Ratu, lan wong atuwo karo”, ; between Javanese

values. The eventual existence of all sorts form “Foundations” and “Corporations” that

have direct links with Suharto and his nearest kin41

are associated with cronyism and

nepotism. Whereas once upon a time these “Foundations” and “Corporations” played the

key role to “work” and “develop” Indonesia on the name of an Indonesian family

(familism) as one of the Asian values attached with it.

Islamic values and fundamentals also need to be looked as part of the ruling ideas and

leadership styles of Mahathir and Suharto. Islam became the core under Mahathir’s

leadership since he took over the country's leadership. The third matter in the Malaysian

Constitution names Islam as the Federal official religion. The position Islam in the

Constitution enables Malaysia do the things on in the name of Islam while other religions

are given freedom to be practised. Mahathir clearly put Islam as a tool to change society

in overall. In Indonesia, the concept and Islamic law practices have been written into the

secular law system. As the non-Muslim constitutes a fairly large population, Malaysian

on the other hand gravitated the formation of two legal systems that is to separate, an

38 on 25 April to 4 May 2011 39 Indo Barometer (2011). Evualuasi 13 Tahun Reformasi dan 18 Bulan Pemerintahan SBY-Boediono . From

http://www.indobarometer.com 40 Partai Persatuan Pembangunan (PPP), Golongan Karya (Golkar) and Partai Demokrasi Indonesia (PDI). 41 Industries Foundation and this issue is discussed further in a biography - Please refer to: Retnowati, AK. (2007). The

Life and Legacy of Suharto of Indonesian's Second President. Singapore: Marshall Cavendish Edition


Islamic law and another secular law (Horowitz, 1994: p. 42). Be it Malaysia or Indonesia,

LKY sees the consistency of the leaders who did not compromise with issues that

affected the Muslim world. At the time when the Soviet Union era dominated

Afghanistan (24th of December 1979) LKY picks;

It also changed the attitudes of our two Muslim neighbours, Indonesia and

Malaysia. Both President Suharto and Prime Minister Mahathir stiffened their

position against the Soviet Union.

(LKY, 2010; p. 3)

Whether it is a love-hate relationship, worship or scorn, the verse of (LKY,

Mahathir and Suharto) these figures are the Giants of Asia. They share the “ruling ideas”

which is nearly identical namely they wanted to see the society grow and developed from

a level to a significantly different level with way i) speed of economic growth ii)

moderate political life and iii) selected social equity. Their leadership styles that differ in

principles but similar by success was able to manipulate and blend the society with

respect of local values. Their ruling ideas and leadership styles highlighted their own

original touch and ingenuity. With many critics view that Malaysia and Indonesia could

potentially become turbulent countries (due to its racial diversity), but Mahathir and

Suharto had proven them wrong. They are truly “Asian Leaders with Asian Styles!!”

References

Han Foo Kwang & Rakan (2011). Lee Kuan Yew - Hard Truth To Keep Singapore Going.

Singapura: Straits Times Press.

Huntington, S. P. (1996). The Clash of Civilizations and the Remarking of World Order.

New York: Simon & Schuster.

Huntington, S. P. (2008). Pertembungan Tamadun dan Pembentukan Semula Order Baru

(Mokhtar Ahmad, Terjemahan). Selangor: Dawama Sdn. Bhd

Lee. K.Y. (1998). The Singapore Story. Singapore : Times Editions Pte Ltd

Lee. K. Y. (2010). From Third World To First - The Singapore Story : 1965-2000.

Singapore : Marshall Cavendish (Edisi 3)

Lee. K.Y. (1998). The Singapore Story. Singapore : Times Editions Pte Ltd

Lee. K. Y. (2000). From Third World To First - The Singapore Story : 1965-2000.

Singapore : Marshall Cavendish

Lee. K. Y. (2012). Lee Kuan Yew My Lifelong Challenge Singapore’s Bilingual Journey.

Singapura: Straits Times Press.


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Publishing

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Distributors Sdn Bhd

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Values. Journal of East Asian Studies 10, 315-344.

Tom, P. (2012). Dr M: Operasi Malaysia Wawancara dengan Mahathir Mohamad (Edisi

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Malaysia . Singapura: Marshall Cavendish

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nation. Singapura: Marshall Cavendish

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Publication

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