The merits of Mahathir's long goodbye

Nerves are calming after the initial shock announcement

Malaysia's press reacts to the announcement that Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad will retire next year, handing over to his deputy, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, after a period of transition.

The Star urged Malaysians to back Mahathir's successor

The Star newspaper said that while Dr Mahathir's announcement had led to expressions of sadness from his supporters, Malaysians had to give their support to the transition in order to ensure political and economic stability.

"They must back Abdullah in carrying out the many programmes already laid down by Dr Mahathir, and they need to get their focus right. The baton will be passed on soon, and we must understand that Malaysia must move on."

Transition relief

Utusan Malaysia newspaper said the announcement that Dr Mahathir would remain as interim prime minister had relieved the nation.

Dr Mahathir ruled Malaysia for 21 years

It said the people ought to welcome the transition period with a sense of gratitude, adding that the "leadership change will proceed in a smooth and orderly manner and be welcomed by the people".

It also said that the leaders of Dr Mahathir's Umno party and its youth and women's movements had expressed their "undivided support" for Mr Badawi as successor.

Utusan Malaysia said Dr Mahathir's decision had surprised the nation and was difficult for the people to accept, and called for an "open mind and pragmatic attitude".

Confusion fears

But the pro-opposition Malaysia Kini newspaper said opposition leaders had "poured cold water" on the announcement.

The leader of the opposition Democratic Action Party, Lim Kit Siang, was reported to question whether the transition would not lead to confusion, especially as Dr Mahathir intends to keep the finance portfolio.

"Only time will tell whether the 15-month power transition plan can work satisfactorily or whether it will result in two prime ministers and two finance ministers or without a proper prime minister and finance minister for 15 months," he was quoted as saying.