10 Questions With… Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir

Fa Abdul tosses random, quirky questions at a former First Daughter, dedicated social activist and prolific writer in an effort to bring out her zanier side.

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Strong woman

Eleanor Roosevelt once said: “A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.” This quotation aptly describes the character of Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir who, in my book, is the perfect model of a strong woman

For Malaysians who aren’t hiding under their tempurung, Marina’s extraordinary qualities are well-known. A famed socio-political activist, author, columnist and champion of various NGOs and movements, Marina’s myriad pursuits both inspire and humble all around her.

I became acquainted with Marina several months ago and was pleasantly surprised to find that – despite carrying a very big name and being a celebrity in her own right – Marina is both humble and genuine. Unlike some major international personalities who let their stardom get to their heads, Marina is simply ‘Kak Marina’ – a big sister and friend – to everyone around her.

Marina with her parents

While there are lots of nice things I can think to say about Marina (and God knows I never get star-struck), I’d rather just say this: Marina to me is the symbol of an empowered woman. She stands tall and gracious, but wouldn’t hesitate to kick-a** if she has to. Honestly, Malaysia would be a better place with gutsy women like her.

I thank Marina for being such a good sport in answering my ten random questions below:

Question 1
What single piece of clothing best describes you?
A big, loose t-shirt – because I am casual and relaxed.

Question 2
What turns you off?
Mostly, body odour. But also a lack of a sense of humour among some people, especially about themselves.

Question 3
If you turn into your partner for a day, what would you do?
My partner? I would go out and buy some really cool clothes and stop worrying about whether anyone thinks I’m dressed right or not.

Question 4
What’s the naughtiest thing you ever did in school?
Me? I was never naughty in school. I spent 12 years in a Convent school, where you have to be very silent and very good. It explains everything about the way I am today.

Marina and her daughters

Question 5
What’s your favourite place on earth?
In bed at home, playing Words with Friends.

Question 6
If given a chance, who would you like to exchange roles with for a day?
A really ordinary person who is never recognised in public and who never has to deal with humourless and repetitive cybertroopers.

Question 7
What’s the silliest thing you have heard people say about you?
That I own all those places where you tie up boats.

Question 8
What is your favourite curse word?
It’s not printable, and most people never get to hear it.

Question 9
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
Eight years ago I climbed Mt Kinabalu. For a non-sporty, non-outdoor type, that was totally out of character for me.

Question 10
If you were stranded on a desert island, what five things would want to have with you?
Beautiful stationery, my eye pencil, comfortable shoes, a big fat colouring book with a huge selection of colour felt tips and photos of my family.