A day after Mahathir's shock resignation announcement and even more surprising fast retreat from the decision has given Malaysians something to yarn about all day. On the blower to a few this afternoon, some are speculating that he had received a serious challenge to his power during the UMNO Annual Assembly, but others reject it outright. Others are suggesting that he "just had enough".

Malaysians have become used in recent years to suprising decisions and statements from Mahathir, suggesting that Mahathir may even be using shock treatment to chide a Malaysia into action for change. But increasingly, most are becoming immune to it.

Mahathir's reversal of his quit decision was greeted with soccer crowd like approval with those watching in screens around the Putra World Trade Center breaking into cheers of "Long Live Mahathir". It was great television also.

In any case, the good doctor is now on 10 days leave.

Nothing yet to change my views in my earlier more lengthly article on the Mahathir fears, tears, and cheers...