Socialism 2017

·33 min·3 clips

Two activists from Parti Socialis Malaysia discuss their upcoming socialism conference and the party's growth since 2005.

The episode begins with host Ahmad Fuad Rahmat introducing Night School and its focus on social sciences and humanities. He welcomes guests Arul and Sharon from Parti Socialis Malaysia to discuss the Socialism 2017 conference happening on November 19th. Arul explains that this is the 13th annual conference, with this year's theme being 'national socialism' focusing on local topics like racism and the Russian Revolution. Sharon and Arul describe the conference's growth since 2005, noting initial fears about using the word 'socialist' and how the party has since attracted young Malay members. They discuss youth engagement, with Sharon sharing her experience moving from welfare work with Rohingyas to political activism after realizing systemic issues. The conversation shifts to Malaysian politics, with Arul highlighting PSM's emphasis on class-based issues to unite people across racial lines, contrasting with mainstream racial politics. They explore the relevance of the Bandung Conference idea for building anti-imperialist solidarity in Southeast Asia. The guests also address the 100-year anniversary of the Russian Revolution, discussing its historical impact on decolonization and social rights. Throughout, they provide practical details about the conference, including sessions on racism, youth, Bandung 2, and the Russian Revolution, with speakers like Dr. Jaya Kumar and international guests. The episode concludes with logistics: the conference is at the KL Chinese Assembly Hall, costs 10 ringgit, includes lunch and childcare, and features bookshops and T-shirt sales.

As heard by us

A grounded conference preview linking Malaysian racism with everyday acts of solidarity.

This Night School episode uses PSM's upcoming national socialism conference as a way into how political ideas land in Malaysian public life. Ahmad Fuad Rahmat speaks with Arul and Sharon Raj about the event's local focus, with particular attention to a racism panel on Malaysian…

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Why you'd press play

You get a local tour of socialism, Malaysian racism, and a PSM conference trying to put both on the same agenda.

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