KUALA LUMPUR — Photographs of the Kuala Lumpur Tower’s construction, a RM2 banknote, and a patriotic poem were among the contents of the Wawasan 2020 (Vision 2020) time capsule unveiled today, nearly three decades after it was sealed.
The time capsule, which was stored on October 1, 1996, was opened by Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in a ceremony held at KL Tower this morning.
Now 99 years old, Dr Mahathir admitted he never imagined he would live long enough to witness the unveiling.
“I didn’t expect to still be able to see the items inside the capsule. I thought by that time I would no longer be around.
“I can still manage to open it, read the press statement, and look at its contents. I am deeply, deeply grateful for this,” he said, appearing visibly emotional during the event.
Among the items found inside the capsule were photos of the tower’s construction, a RM2 note, promotional posters, photographic film, newspaper advertisements, video compact discs, and various other memorabilia.
His wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, 98, was also present at the event.
Earlier in the event, Dr Mahathir read aloud a patriotic poem he had written for UMNO’s 50th anniversary on May 4, 1996 — a gesture he said brought back many memories.
“Almost 30 years ago I put everything into this capsule, and even back then I was already 70 years old — I never imagined I would still be here today.
“I am emotional and thankful that I am still able to read this poem, so that the children of Malaysia will continue to fight for the development of our country,” he said. – April 13, 2025