In another action to show his strength, Dr Mahathir has recently taken over the finance ministry from his long-time ally, Daim Zainuddin.

ECONOMIST: Malaysia

In June Dr Mahathir brought an old chum and former finance minister, Daim Zainuddin, into the cabinet with an economic brief that has clipped Mr Anwar's wings.

ECONOMIST: Malaysia��s rough justice

Dr Mahathir further strengthened his position on June 25th when he restored his friend Daim Zainuddin, a former finance minister, to the cabinet as its economic overlord.

ECONOMIST: Malaysia