Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad moved to set the tone for Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) at the party’s launch tonight, urging an awakening amongst Malays that have been the bedrock of Umno’s support.

Mahathir said he had witnessed what Malays, who were perceived to be “weak”, could do when there is an awakening.

The 91-year-old Bersatu chairperson said his longevity allowed him to see this during the colonial era even though some today mocked him of becoming “senile”.