The MCA, the DAP and the Gerakan: three variances in Malaysian Chinese politics?

Abstract

The proposed chapter seeks to attempt a framework to understand the development of Chinese politics in Malaysia since the end of the Second World War. In essence, the framework is to help distinguish the manner in which the Chinese have responded to the changes that have taken place. Since the end of the war it is possible to detect five different forms in which the Chinese have chosen to react to the political changes. The first of this was the support of some Chinese for the MCP which advocated revolutionary change, A whole host of motives were behind the involvement of these Chinese ranging from basic chauvinistic sentiments to genuine radical commitment. The second form of response occurred after the outbreak of the MCP insurrection in the formation of the MCA.