Dr Mahathir's statement insulting to country's independence fighters - NGO

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's statement that it was better for Malaysia to remain under European rule is an insult to those who fought for the country's independence, says Pro-Barisan Nasional Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisation president Datuk Zulkarnain Mahdar.

He wondered if the former prime minister was aware that many lives were lost when the country fought for independence from the British although Malaysia was finally freed through discussion.

In a statement here Wednesday, he said Dr Mahathir should apologise to all next-of-kin of Malaysia's independence fighters.

On Tuesday, in his blog, chedet, Dr Mahathir had reportedly written that Malaysia would be better if the country remained under European rule or other developed countries, in reference to French car manufacturer PSA Group having confirmed to have submitted an official bid to buy a stake in Proton. - Bernama