Capturing hope: the struggle continues for a new Malaysia

Mahathir Mohamad writes about the political comeback of Malaysia's longest-serving leader during its most turbulent time in Capturing Hope: The Struggle Continues for a New Malaysia from 2018 to 2020. The book documents Mahathir’s reflections as Malaysia’s seventh Prime Minister after spearheading Pakatan Harapan (PH) to victory in the 14th General Election, which ended six decades of Barisan Nasional’s dominance. The text combines Mahathir's life story with political analysis through his dual role as a memoirist and political commentator. The text combines Mahathir's story of his 92-year-old political comeback with his analysis of corruption and governance, coalition politics, and reform. Central to the account is the fragile nature of PH’s multiracial coalition, Mahathir’s uneasy reconciliation with Anwar Ibrahim, and the eventual collapse of the government following his resignation in 2020. The book shows that Mahathir believed that strong leadership was needed to achieve reform and stability, but his approach was often seen as authoritarian. Mahathir presents himself as both a reformist and a pragmatist who wants to create a Malaysia without corruption, ethnic divisions, and institutional weaknesses. Through its blend of inspiration and controversy, Capturing Hope offers valuable insights into the complexities of Malaysia’s democratic transition and leadership challenges. Cite as: Razali, N. A., & Sabtu, M. H. (2026). Review of the book Capturing hope: the struggle continues for a new Malaysia by Mahathir Mohamad. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 311-314. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp311-314