Presiding over the ASEAN press conferences of the past two days, Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has looked more like a man anxious to get the proceedings over with than one who is enjoying chairing the organisation's 30th anniversary. In contrast with the air of confidence and self-assurance he exuded at the beginning of the year, when Malaysia was basking in economic prosperity and preparing not only to host the association's birthday but to celebrate the country's 40th year of independence, he has looked tired. He has seen the economic achievements of Malaysia and its Southeast Asian partners undermined by severe regional financial turmoil. Most countries accept the International Monetary Fund has a role to play. Even Malaysia has taken steps to overcome its weaknesses. Dr Mahathir reacted strongly yesterday when it was suggested he was 'pulling his punches' and perhaps regarded his earlier views on the cause of the financial turmoil as wrong. He denied this, but said: 'I am told that it is my brashness which has caused all these problems and therefore I am trying to be nice, especially to the press.'