The following is an abstract of former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's 10-minute speech while standing through the sunroof of a four-wheel-drive on returning from a three-week overseas holiday this morning.

I didn't think that one day I'll get such a reception [crowd claps and cheers wildly]. But when I was prime minister, there were more people (to receive me) [crowd laughs].

I am no longer allowed to meet people. What are they so afraid of? [crowd shouts: 'not scared, not scared']. Why are they scared of me? It's not that I can do anything [crowd laughs].

When I stepped down (as PM), I no longer get any praises. Back then, it was not just praises, but also great admiration. Now, when I wanted to speak to some people in England - cannot. I want to speak to former elected representatives in Kelantan, even that is banned.