Malaysia ex-PM Mahathir leaves hospital

KUALA LUMPUR – Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad has left hospital after recovering from a chest infection, the national news agency Bernama reported.

The 85-year-old long-time leader had undergone treatment including chest physiotherapy at the National Heart Institute since May 18. Bernama said Mahathir was discharged Saturday.

Mahathir stepped down as prime minister in 2003 after 22 years in power. But he remains an influential figure, who often speaks up on current issues.

Last October, Mahathir was admitted to a hospital in Melbourne for a similar chest infection.

He has undergone two coronary bypass surgeries, one in 1989 and the latest in 2007.

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