| Date | November 2020 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 20N.3op3.HL.TZ0.29 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Evaluate | Question number | 29 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 15: Cold War conflicts in Asia
Evaluate the role of the Malayan Communist Party during the Malayan Emergency (1948–1960).
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the role of the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) during the Emergency, weighing up their strengths and limitations. Candidates may offer equal coverage of strengths and limitations, or they may prioritize their evaluation of one of these aspects. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to the regrouping of the MCP militants as the MPABA. The militants carried out guerilla activities including road and rail ambushes as well as intimidation and killings of civilians. In 1949, the MPLA allied with trade unions, other political parties as well as the aboriginal population. Limitations of the MCP may include a discussion of the loss of popular support due to their violent methods. The British were also easily able to suppress the MCP and cut off their supplies through Operation Starvation. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Examiners report
The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the role of the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) during the Malayan Emergency.
