Influences of Mahathirism in Utusan Malaysia editorials on Mahathir’s policies during his premiership from 1981-2003

This study examined editorials in one of Malaysia's Malay newspapers, the Utusan Malaysia, from 1981 to 1987, during Mahathir's premiership. The specifically influence Mahathirism on government policies. theoretical framework Reese's hierarchy influences served as foundation for this study. qualitative utilised retrospective in-depth interviews with key personnel Malaysia its methodology answer research questions. found no compelling evidence direct or overt editorials. What discovered was chief editor, Zainuddin Maidin (ZAM)'s enthusiasm thinking and his conviction that Prime Minister possessed courage carry out promises a modernised prosperous greater share economy Malays. demonstrate he shared concerns about how should be developed agenda increased economic representation community accomplished. We find editorials, not verbatim echoes Mahathir’s thoughts ideas, but ZAM’s original Malaysian nationalism, assertion sovereignty face Western dominance. Many these ideas are reflected what is conveniently called Mahathirism. By personal choice ZAM became UMNO's (United Malays National Organization) official spokesman journalist, who through own unique perspectives policies, emphasised political objectives well emphasis agenda, intellectual basis pro-Mahathir primarily influenced by ZAM's commitment aspects it.