We should remember the contributions made by both Hindraf and Raja Petra Kamarudin

If we reflect on the issues that wrought cataclysmic change to the political landscape – culminating in the 2008 general election – we must acknowledge the important role played by both the Hindu Rights Action Force, or Hindraf, and blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin.

In different ways, both gave the opposition the impetus and dynamism it so badly needed then, the kind that outstripped even the BN juggernaut’s ability to contain the people’s march for change.

Hindraf’s contribution was their ability to mobilise the poor and marginalised Indian community. They were united and more importantly, they showed tremendous resolve and courage in pursuing their demands.

Some of these demands were questionable and perhaps even unreasonable, but it can’t be denied that they gave voice to pent-up grievances the Indian community had suffered for decades.

When such feelings have had no outlet for expression for so long, it’s not surprising that they can seem extreme and unreasonable in parts when they are finally unleashed.

Hindraf’s announcement last week that they too would support the opposition and do whatever they can to bring about more change in the political landscape is a gesture that we all should appreciate.

The Indian community still supports Hindraf and I have no doubt that their ability to mobilise this group in the upcoming general election will be as formidable as ever.

Fighting for a better Malaysia

Raja Petra meanwhile, may not be living in Malaysia any longer but as a friend I know he has sacrificed a lot for the cause of reform and political transformation.

He is still in the thick of things, and I hope his relentless assault on the Internal Security Act and tireless online campaigning for the opposition will not be forgotten.

He also took great personal risks back in 2008. More importantly, he is still with the forces of change.

Raja Petra is a maverick so he may sometimes say or do things we don’t approve of, but he will continue to fight for a better Malaysia. He would not be Raja Petra if he were so predictable, or always sang the right tune.

The political culture that we need to nurture in this country is that of inclusiveness.

That means we must learn to trust those who share our struggle even when they come in different shapes and sizes – we share the same destination in this long journey for change.

Differences are plentiful and we may even disagree on what we need to do to attain success. We must, however, appreciate and value those who have given their pounds of flesh in this struggle, warts and all.