In the immediate aftermath of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington on Sept 11, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad was quoted by Bernama as saying that he was concerned that the US would retaliate against those responsible for the raids and that this would in turn claim more lives.

Other than perfunctorily expressing his sadness over the tragedy, he seemed more concerned about the fate that awaits the perpetrators and those that harbour them rather than sympathise over the thousands of lives that have been lost. No condolences were immediately offered to the US (then) or her people over this horrific turn of events.

Mahathir may have an axe to grind against the US (notwithstanding the fact that Malaysia's industrial exports are fueled by US companies) but he has to be more explicit in condemning international terrorism and their supporters.