PETALING JAYA: In a show of obvious displeasure, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has asked how Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz's criticisms of him have addressed any of his objections to the calling off of the half-bridge project.

In the third and final installment of a 45-minute exclusive interview with Malaysiakini posted today (May 25, 2006), Mahathir said: "I think I am entitled to make criticisms and now, (they should) answer the points that I have raised."

"Don't just say 'well, he is a devil, therefore I shouldn't (answer)'. What is it that Nazri said on all (my) points? Tell me, on what points have I been wrong?" he demanded.

Nazri, who is Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, had openly criticised the former premier for raising objections to the current leadership's decision to abort the project.

Nazri had said the decision to build the bridge that was supposed to link Malaysia with Singapore was Mahathir's alone and the Cabinet was not consulted during his leadership.

"Well, I suppose they have short memories. People forget, they are getting old. They've probably forgotten," Mahathir said.

The interview which took six years to secure was conducted on May 16, 2006, at the Petronas Twin Towers and ran in three parts beginning Tuesday (May 23, 2006).

He also talked about Umno and the failed steel company Perwaja, and said that Malaysian history "should forget me".

On a lighter note, Mahathir said he was writing a book on his secret to good health, adding: "I will want to make some money out of it, advising you on how to look young."

The full interviews are posted at www.malaysiakini.com/news