The triumphs and tragedy of Dr Tan Chee Khoon

Dr Tan Chee Khoon, once the prominent opposition leader, passed away 30 years ago but remains largely unrecognized. His memory was reignited during a public forum at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, organized by Aliran. Poh Lai, his youngest daughter and economist Jomo Kwame Sundram, shared stories of his life and the challenges he faced, from his humble upbringing to his medical work and political career.

Chee Khoon, known as "Mr Opposition," was resolute in advocating for issues that mattered to the public. Despite his significant contributions to education, healthcare, and the poor, the British government and later the Alliance government crippled the left-wing movement with the Internal Security Act. This weakened the Labour Party and Parti Rakyat, leading to the emergence of leaders who exploited race and religion to gain public support.

Chee Khoon's legacy includes his enduring commitment to education, healthcare, and the poor, as well as the formation of Gerakan in 1968, which ultimately paved the way for a more racially and religiously divided society.