Public Talk
Merdeka, Multiracialism And Dissent, Without Fear Or Favour
A public discussion revisiting Tan Sri Dr Tan Chee Khoon’s enduring legacy of principled politics, multiracialism, and fearless dissent in Malaysia.
Organised by Penang Institute in collaboration with Aliran.
Event Information
Event: Merdeka, Multiracialism And Dissent, Without Fear Or Favour
Date: Saturday, 5 September 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Venue: Conference Hall, Penang Institute
Organiser: Penang Institute in collaboration with Aliran
Admission is FREE. This event is open to the public.
Please note that this event will not be livestreamed. A recording will be available on the Penang Institute YouTube channel after the event.
Event Summary
Held on 5 September 2026, the public talk Merdeka, Multiracialism and Dissent, Without Fear or Favour reflected on the enduring relevance of the ideals and political legacy of Tan Sri Dr Tan Chee Khoon, 30 years after his passing. The discussion brought together Dr Francis Loh Kok Wah and Tan Poh Lai, daughter of Tan Chee Khoon, to explore his contributions to Malaysian democracy and the continuing importance of principled politics, multiracialism and fearless dissent.
Tan Poh Lai offered a personal perspective on her father, sharing stories that provided an intimate glimpse into the person behind the public figure. She reflected on his commitment to his principles and his belief in speaking up for justice, accountability and the public good. Her recollections also situated Tan Chee Khoon within the generation of Malaysians who helped shape the country in the formative years following Merdeka, portraying him as a “son of Merdeka” whose political convictions were deeply intertwined with the aspirations of a newly independent Malaysia.
Dr Francis Loh contextualised Tan Chee Khoon’s political career within the social and political circumstances of his time. His presentation highlighted the challenges faced by those advocating democracy, multiracialism and accountability, while drawing connections between Tan Chee Khoon’s era and contemporary Malaysia.
The discussion ultimately asked whether his ideals remain relevant three decades after his passing. At a time when Malaysia continues to grapple with questions of democratic governance, political accountability, ethnic relations and the space for dissent, Tan Chee Khoon’s willingness to speak without fear or favour remains a compelling reference point. The talk invited participants to consider not only his historical legacy but also how his principles might continue to inform Malaysia’s democratic journey today.
Event Overview
30 years after his passing, are Tan Sri Dr Tan Chee Khoon’s ideals still relevant in today’s Malaysia?
This public talk revisits his enduring legacy of principled politics, multiracialism, and fearless dissent, and explores the continued significance of these values in contemporary Malaysian society.
The discussion will reflect on Tan Chee Khoon’s contributions to Malaysian democracy, his unwavering commitment to justice and accountability, and the challenges of upholding these ideals in an increasingly complex political landscape.
Join Dr Francis Loh Kok Wah and Tan Poh Lai for a discussion on how Tan Chee Khoon’s principles continue to inform contemporary debates on democracy, governance, and the role of dissent in a changing political landscape.
Speakers
Dr Francis Loh Kok Wah
Francis Loh was Hon Secretary of Aliran for 20 plus years and president from 2011-2016. He taught Politics in Universiti Sains Malaysia for 30 years and retired as Professor in 2012.
Tan Poh Lai
Tan Poh Lai is a lawyer based in Johore Baru. She is the youngest daughter of Tan Sri Dr Tan Chee Khoon.
Recording
A recording of the event will be available after the talk on the Penang Institute YouTube channel: