PUTRAJAYA – Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had to leave the Picnic & Potluck event earlier than scheduled this morning after reportedly feeling slightly fatigued.
The event, held at Putrajaya Lake next to the Perdana Leadership Foundation, was part of celebrations for Mahathir’s 100th birthday on July 10 and his wife Tun Dr Hasmah Mohd Ali’s 99th birthday on July 12.
Mahathir arrived at 7.45am, having driven himself, before cycling on a tandem bicycle around the lake, accompanied by his security detail.
However, after cycling for about eight to nine kilometres, he appeared tired and took a short rest on a chair provided by organisers before heading to the breakfast table.
The former fourth and seventh prime minister was accompanied by Hasmah, Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, and his son Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, who was already waiting at the table.
More than 500 people were estimated to have attended, bringing food to enjoy a relaxed breakfast with the former leader and his family by the lakeside.
According to media reports, Mahathir left the event around 10am before he could greet or take photos with the public.
Following that, Tun Mahathir is now resting at the National Heart Institute (IJN).
The matter was confirmed to the media by his aide, Sufi Yusoff, a short while ago.
Sufi said Mahathir was admitted to IJN at around 10am after attending the Picnic & Potluck event in Putrajaya.
Earlier, Mokhzani told reporters his father was not unwell but tired after attending another function the day before and having had little sleep.
“This morning, he went on a fairly long ride, which left him a bit fatigued,” he said, adding that Mahathir felt refreshed after breakfast, some local cakes and coffee. – July 13, 2025