In the tapestry of Malaysian politics, few names resonate with as much determination and vision as Prof. Dr. P. Ramasamy. Born on May 10, 1949, his story is one of resilience, breaking barriers, and inspiring a nation. From his humble beginnings in Perak to his tenure as Malaysia’s first Indian-origin Deputy Chief Minister, Ramasamy has left an indelible mark on the political and academic landscapes.
Early Life: A Journey Rooted in Hardship and Aspiration
Born into a family of Tamil migrants, Ramasamy’s upbringing was steeped in the values of hard work and perseverance. His parents, Palaniyammal and Palanichany, toiled in Malaya’s fields, embodying the struggles of countless migrant families. Ramasamy attended Anglo-China Primary School in the late 1950s and pursued his education in Teluk Intan, Perak.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he ventured abroad for higher education. From earning a journalism degree in New Zealand to advanced studies in political science at Indiana University in the U.S., and McGill University in Canada, Ramasamy’s academic pursuits culminated in a Ph.D. from the University of Malaya in 1991.
Academic Excellence and Global Advocacy
Before stepping into politics, Prof. Dr. P. Ramasamy was a celebrated academic, spending 25 years as a political science lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). His intellectual curiosity and commitment to human rights saw him serve as a visiting professor in Singapore and Germany, and an advisor to international peace efforts in Aceh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Colombia.
His activism, particularly through the Institute of Social Analysis (INSAN), showcased his dedication to marginalized communities and labor rights. These endeavors earned him recognition as a global advocate for justice.
A Pivotal Shift: From Academia to Politics
Ramasamy’s transition into politics in 2005 marked a turning point. Joining the Democratic Action Party (DAP), he channeled his advocacy into actionable policies. His political debut was nothing short of revolutionary. In the 2008 general election, Ramasamy unseated former Penang Chief Minister Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon, securing a seat in both the Parliament for Batu Kawan and the Penang State Legislative Assembly for Perai.
Trailblazer in Malaysian Politics
His appointment as the Deputy Chief Minister II of Penang was historic, making him the first person of Indian origin to hold such a position. As a member of the Penang State Executive Council (EXCO), Ramasamy championed economic planning, education, human resources, science, technology, and innovation.
Under his leadership, Penang witnessed a surge in inclusive policies, addressing long-standing inequalities and fostering unity. His outspoken views on controversial issues, such as the dominance of the Malay civil service and his support for Hindu nationalism in India, often drew criticism but also underscored his unwavering commitment to reform.
Challenges and Resilience
Ramasamy’s career was not without its challenges. After being dismissed from UKM in 2005 under controversial circumstances, he reinvented himself by teaching abroad and deepening his political involvement.
In 2023, following differences with DAP leadership, Ramasamy made a bold move by leaving the party and founding the United for the Rights of Malaysians Party (URIMAI). This new venture reflects his enduring dedication to advocating for minority rights and championing the aspirations of Indian Malaysians.
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