Malaysia - Gearing up for a life after Mahathir

Malaysia, an important member of the ASEAN² (Association of South East Asia nations) had achieved remarkable economic success in the past three decades. The country's living standards had risen significantly. Malaysia had emerged not only as an important trading nation but also as one of the most attractive destinations for Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). But in 2003, Islamic fundamentalism seemed to be on the rise along with racial tensions among Malays, Chinese and Indians. Malaysia was also far away from its cherished ambition of becoming a developed country. The country had to address all these concerns since the architect of modern Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad, Prime Minister since 1981, prepared to retire in October 2003...