E Contrario

I had not been to Langkawi for more than 10 years. The first time I landed on this mysterious island was a year after much promoted Visit Malaysia Year 1990.

I sensed an omen then. I discovered that barely a year after the official Visit Malaysia Year tourist industry was already suffering the problems of over-supply: hotels were under-booked, sluggish car rental, resorts with empty chalets, and so on. I thought Mahathir was driving the development of Langkawi above its capacity.

My impression of Langkawi was always intertwined with the fascinating legend of Mahsuri. She was a tragic victim of injustice and her curse caused the island to be desolated for seven generations. I only understood Mahathir’s great interest in Langkawi when I visted Mahsuri tomb.

I recalled the inscription (carved during Mahathir’s time) claimed that the 7 generation had ended, like the sleeping beauty, a Malay prince from Kedah would come to revive the island to its previous glory.

I sensed here the rivalry between Mahathir and the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, who popularized the Langkawi myth and also attempted to develop this place.

But this trip I had no time for fairytale. I flew into Padang Matsirat Airport at 21:00hr (11 Sept), went straight to a seafood restaurant in Kuah where 80-100 people were waiting.

It was my first time doing political campaign in this recreation island. KeADILan divisional chief Wan Salleh was a retired director of Immigration Department. He has a popular appeal among Langkawi people. Since he elected this year, about 6 thousands have joined the party.

I was asked to analyze current affairs and to explain the principles of our struggle. The talk was targeted at local Chinese and Indian, who had been reluctant to support the opposition in the past.

To the delight of the division committee, the attendance was fantastic. Never before people so enthusiastically came to a political activity organized by the opposition. I was told later, many more signed up at the dinner.

The participants of the talk said KeADILan was what they were waiting for. In the past, Chinese was afraid of supporting PAS. Now they are pleased that a multiracial party has emerged!

The revival of Langkawi’s pride, it seems, may not come from mega projects and federal funds, perhaps it lies in avenging justice on this land…

Ketua Bahagian Wan Salleh handing over 1000 membership forms

Parti Keadilan Rakyat division office on the mainstreet of Kuah