Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today launched a book by Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin titled 'Mengemudi Bahtera Perubahan Minda - Edisi Baharu'.

NONE The book is a compilation of writings by the former Perlis mufti in his column 'Pena Mufti' published every Sunday in Mingguan Malaysia since March 11, 2007.

Speaking at the launch here, Mahathir said although he did not agree with all the writings and views of Mohd Asri, they could help open the mind.

"I had been advised by friends not to get involve with this man but since I love reading, it is alright for me to launch his book," said Mahathir, who is also president of Perdana Leadership Foundation.

The book is sold at RM35 each in peninsula Malaysia and RM38 in Sabah and Sarawak.

Published by Utusan Publications & Distributors Sdn Bhd, the book is available at all major bookstores. Orders can also be placed online .

Fairer interpretation

Meanwhile, Asri thanked Mahathir for launching his book.

"Many people admire Dr Mahathir as a political figure but I admire him as a thinker. Looking at him from a thinker's dimension will result in a fairer interpretation," he said.

The new edition book is continuation from the first edition published in end 2008 and were sold out in less than a year.

The launch was in conjunction with the intellectual discussion on the book organised by Utusan Melayu (Malaysia) Bhd and Perdana Leadership Foundation.

- Bernama