Doses of venom

The gloves are completely off in Malaysia. There is now little room for reconciliation following PM Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's description of predecessor Dr Mahathir Mohamad's criticisms as "doses of venom".

This is probably the strongest language ever used by Badawi.

Abridged Bernama report:
PM Describes As Doses Of Venom Dr M's Remark To Continue Attacks
KEPALA BATAS, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Thursday described as "doses of venom" the remark by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to continue criticising the government.

"He repeated again with a stronger doses of venom... what else can be done? he wants to continue", he told reporters at his Hari Raya open house.

"Also Dr Mahathir's claim that my son was given a project despite not having the capacity was not true.

He said Dr Mahathir claimed Scomi Bhd was awarded TNB's contract to transport coal but did not have a ship but actually the company owned 180 ships for its operations.

"Not having ships... that's not true, actually, the company has ships... 180 ships owned by another company which was acquired by Scomi... his children (Dr Mahathir's) also received contracts, only it was not highlighted.

"The projects awarded to Dr Mahathir's children were far bigger from what Scomi received," he said.

"I said all that is not true (Dr Mahathir's claims). All Umno members now feel at ease under my leadership as they are relieved they can talk... democracy... this is expressed by Umno leaders themselves," he said.