Mahathir warns against colonialism

Mahathir warns against colonialism

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad,
in a speech to mark the 43rd anniversary of independence, said on
Wednesday "foreign powers" were still bent on recolonizing the
country.

In a radio and television address before National Day on
Thursday, Mahathir also accused "extremist" Chinese and Malay
groups of fanning racial sentiments that could lead to
confrontation.

"Today we have become weak because of an erosion in Malay
support for the government. Believe me, if foreign help is
sought, then this country will be pawned," he said.

Ethnic Malays, who make up just over half of the population,
have been divided by the firing and detention of former deputy
premier Anwar Ibrahim in September 1998.