Symposium explores the Chinese community's role in Malaysian history and future

Tun Tan Cheng Lock Centre for Social and Policy Studies (TCLC) took part as a research partner in the Malaysian Chinese Symposium 2024, organised by the Institute of Strategic Analysis & Policy Research (INSAP), on 13 October 2024 at San Choon Hall, Wisma MCA, Kuala Lumpur. Themed From Aspirations to Reality: The Malaysian Chinese Role in Independence and Beyond, the event gathered prominent scholars, policymakers, and community leaders to reflect on the historical contributions of the Chinese community in Malaysia and discuss their future political landscape.

The symposium commenced with opening remarks by MCA President YB Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong, who highlighted the significance of the newly presented research by scholars from UTAR and Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT). The research presentations, based on declassified documents from the UK National Archives, shed new light on the pivotal role played by the Chinese community during the critical period in Malaysia’s history. He emphasised, “The Chinese community was not a passive participant in achieving Malaysia’s independence but a crucial force. Through these research findings, we have the opportunity to reflect on the past and look toward the future.”

Datin Paduka Tan (right) accompanied by Datuk Dr Pamela Yong

Following this, a special sharing session was delivered by the United Malacca Berhad Chairperson, Datin Paduka Tan Siok Choo, who was introduced by INSAP Chairman, Datuk Dr Pamela Yong. Datin Paduka Tan is also a member of the TCLC Steering Committee. She shared insights about her grandfather, who was MCA founder and former president Tun Tan Cheng Lock, focusing on his political vision and legacy.

The first session, titled “The Shaping of the Nation: The Malaysian Chinese Experience”, shed light on the crucial role of the Chinese community in achieving Malaysia’s independence. The session featured expert presentations from University of Malaya Malaysian Chinese Research Centre (MCRC) Head Dr Tan Miau Ing, TAR UMT Institute of Social Economic Research Head Assoc Prof Dr Yap Hon Lun, UTAR Tun Tan Cheng Lock Centre for Social and Policy Studies Assoc Prof Dr Chin Yee Mun and American University academic, Dr Heng Pek Koon. This session was moderated by MCA Secretary-General Datuk Chong Sin Woon.

Dr Chin sharing his views

In the second session, “Reflections and Horizons: The Political Future of the Chinese Community in Malaysia”, panellists explored the evolving political dynamics and the future positioning of the Chinese Malaysian community. Speakers such as Centre for Malaysian Chinese Studies Think Tank Development Committee Chair Dr Phoon Wing Keong, three famous commentators, namely Mr Koh Kok Wee, Mr Tang Ah Chai and Mr Ang Woei Shang discussed strategies for safeguarding constitutional rights amidst current challenges. INSAP Deputy Chairman Mr Jacob Lee Yee Yuan moderated the session.

The symposium concluded with closing remarks by Datuk Chong Sin Woon, who emphasised the importance of ongoing reforms and the need for patience and perseverance in achieving lasting progress for the Chinese community. He expressed gratitude for the platform provided to engage in meaningful discussions on these critical issues.

From left: INSAP Deputy Chairman Mr Tan Gim Tuan, Dr Yap, Dr Chin, Datuk Chong, Datuk Pamela Yong, Dr Tan and Mr Jacob Lee