Return of the political gadfly
The concluding volume of Lim Kit Siang’s biography provides readers with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this often-misunderstood political figure,
IN this current climate, characterised by the proliferation of racial rhetoric from a certain former prime minister, it becomes imperative for us to reevaluate our nation's historical narrative. Understanding how politics have been strategically employed throughout history to create division, incite anger, and instil distrust among Malaysians is now more crucial than ever.
Reflecting on the past also provides insights into the complexities of fostering unity and mutual respect in a diverse and multiracial country.
By revisiting the array of political and historical figures who have contributed to nation-building — or conversely, impeded it —, we might be able to critically analyse the nation's political landscape and, perhaps, gain a nuanced perspective of the political arena.
A key political figure of the country’s colourful political narrative, Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang is someone you certainly can’t ignore. As an outspoken critic whose political career spans more than five decades, Lim has shown remarkable resilience in advocating for a united Malaysia.
Throughout his journey, he has endured character attacks, faced numerous legal challenges and even imprisonment. But his steadfast commitment to his vision of a harmonious and integrated Malaysian society is a testament to his enduring influence in the country’s political landscape.
Kee Thuan Chye, a multifaceted personality known for his roles as a journalist, actor, dramatist, poet and prominent civil rights activist, took on the monumental task of documenting the life of Lim. This extensive project culminated in two comprehensive volumes. These works trace Lim’s journey from his formative years through to the evolution of his significant political career.
The first volume notably concluded with a dramatic turn of events, capturing the moment when Lim was detained under Ops Lalang in 1987 — a cliffhanger which left readers in suspense about the next chapter in his remarkable story.
The narrative unfolds further in the recently released sequel, Lim Kit Siang: Malaysian First, Volume Two — Bold to The Last Battle.
While the first volume offered a glimpse into Lim’s formative years, the genesis of his political convictions and the beginnings of what would be his lifelong quest for the “Malaysian dream”, the second volume delves into the complexities as well as the riveting twists and turns of his political journey to present day.
TWISTS AND TURNS
The second and concluding instalment picks up from the dramatic events of Ops Lalang, a significant moment in Malaysian history.
This operation marked a major government crackdown against a wide array of individuals, including innocent activists, academicians, politicians from various parties (including those from MCA), intellectuals and others. The operation also led to the revocation of publishing licenses for two daily newspapers, illustrating the severity of the situation.
On or about Oct 27, 1987, Ops Lalang was carried out, arresting these individuals under the Internal Security Act (ISA). They were detained without trial by the order of the home minister, who was also the prime minister.
This period was a defining moment in the tenure of then prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who’s often remembered for his authoritarian, ironfisted and Machiavellian approach to governance, maintaining power for 22 years. This volume delves into these turbulent times, offering an in-depth look at the political dynamics and controversies of that era.
Lim’s dogged pursuit of the NorthSouth Expressway scandal, which pointed to criminal conduct and cronyism, had earned him Dr Mahathir’s wrath. And for that, he too, was caught in the same dragnet that put him behind bars.
One of the most poignant aspects of Lim’s political journey is the emotional turmoil he experienced in seeing his son, Guan Eng, go through similar political hardship.
In a context where political nepotism is often associated with material benefits and privileges, Lim’s perspective stands in stark contrast. He has been quoted as saying: “What Guan Eng has received from my nepotism aren’t business opportunities, mega-contracts and mega-loans, but a crown of thorns, the destruction of his political life, as well as putting in jeopardy his own public life and the welfare of his family and children.”
This statement reflects the heavy personal cost and sacrifices involved in their political involvement, highlighting a different facet of the challenges faced by political families in the country.
Lim’s decades-long political journey offers a fascinating insight into the complex dynamics of Malaysian politics, where allegiances can be as fluid as they are unpredictable.
Political adversaries can become allies, only to later revert to opposition roles, illustrating the intricate and often shifting nature of political relationships.
Equally significant is the role played by Lim’s family in his journey. The unwavering support from his wife and children has been a crucial element in his ability to confront the various challenges and opposition he faced.
The second volume covers a more extensive period and delves into events that are likely fresher in the collective memory, making them more relatable to contemporary readers, including the sacking of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as deputy prime minister in 1998, followed by the sodomy charges brought against him.
It also explores the impact of pivotal movements like Bersih and Hindraf, both of which held their first gatherings in November 2007, bringing issues of governance and minority rights to the forefront.
The narrative moves through to the landmark victory of Pakatan Harapan in 2018 and the consequential “Sheraton Move” in February 2020, an event that marked a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape.
Throughout the volume, readers are not only presented with political drama and intrigue but also moments that are deeply moving, offering a multifaceted view of Malaysia’s complex political tapestry.
Kee’s writing style is notably accessible and engaging, even when he tackles complex and weighty topics. His ability to convey intricate subjects in a clear and readable manner makes his work approachable for a wide range of readers, regardless of their familiarity with the subject matter.
This quality of Kee’s writing is particularly evident in his thorough chronicling of significant historical and political events, where he skillfully balances depth and readability.
Love him, hate him, you can’t ignore this political gadfly. This book offers not just a recounting of events, but also an opportunity to understand and engage with a different viewpoint, making it a valuable addition for those interested in the broader narrative of our country’s political history.
As Barack Obama eloquently puts it: “Understanding our past and the sacrifices that were made is critical to our future as a nation and as a people.”