KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, 77 this year, has revealed part of the secret to his youthfulness - the country's humid weather.

Mahathir, making a pitch to woo tourists, said the high humidity in the country kept the skin moist all the time and helped him and many Malaysians to look young.

Malaysians eschew the moisturizers and creams used by Europeans and others to keep their skin dewy and wrinkle-free, the veteran leader said.

"We provide this free in Malaysia. No cream but high humidity. Admittedly it is very uncomfortable at times but the high humidity keeps the skin moist all the time," he was quoted as saying by the

Sunday Star.

"I would like people to know that Malaysia is a place where the people get (to look) younger every day."

23 million tourists target

Mahathir sets a target of least 23 million tourist arrivals each year, the same number as the country's population, and said the government would take steps to lure rich tourists into purchasing homes in Malaysia.

The veteran premier, who underwent a quadruple heart bypass in 1989, is known for his legendary display of energy and stamina, who has adhered to a rigorous schedule for his entire 21 years in power.

He will mark 22 years in office in July, and has pledged to step down and hand the reins to his deputy Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in October.

Mahathir is due to take a two-month holiday in March, during which Abdullah will face his first test as acting premier. - AFP