by Dr. Chen Man Hin
The concept of a Malaysian Malaysia has caught the imagination of the people, ever since the struggle for a more just and equal society by the newly formed DAP in 1965.
With the departure of the PAP of Singapore because of the separation from Malaysia, a group of people led by Devan Nair formed a committe to build a new party – the Democratic Action Party.
The first test came when the dap (as yet unregistered) participated in a by-election in Rahang, Seremban. As Dap was waiting for registration, the symbol of Plum Blossom was chosen to be the by-election symbol.
The DAP won the by election with a stunning majority over the candidates of two other parties – MCA and Labour party.
The victory confirmed that the concept of Malaysian Malaysia had substantial support from the people. From then onwards the “Plum Blossom Spirit” caught on and this same spirit has inspired Dap leaders to struggle on despite great difficulties and persecution from the Alliance, the then government of M(Speech by Dr Chen Man Hin at the 45th anniversary of the Rahang by-election victory and the launching of the DAP “Plum Blossom Spirit campaign” in seremban on 11th December 2010)