“The Malayan Emergency (1948–1960) was resolved because the colonial government had popular support.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the Malayan Emergency (1948–1960) was resolved because the colonial government had popular support. Candidates may discuss the counter-productive Briggs Plan, which, while including improved health care and education in the New Villages, also involved forced deportation, mass arrests and harsh curfews. They may contrast such measures with Templar’s “hearts and minds” campaign which improved community relations (promoted by Templar’s numerous visits to the New Villages), and was supported by effective propaganda and the establishment of law and order. Security measures were softened. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, military tactics which involved close air support, search and destroy missions and the efficient coordination of the war effort by the War Executive Committee. However, there will be a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the Malayan Emergency (1948-1960) was resolved because the colonial government had popular support. This was a relatively popular question. For the most part this question was answered effectively. Candidates demonstrated a good understanding of a range of factors that resolved the Malayan Emergency and provided in-depth supporting knowledge.