INTERVIEW | Since 1969, DAP has never failed to launch its rocket during a general election. But for the 14th national polls, the rocket was grounded in the peninsula.

In an interview with Malaysiakini, Lim Kit Siang revealed that the move paid off.

The DAP veteran said the rules of the game had changed when the electoral boundaries were redrawn and laws such as the Anti-Fake News Act 2018 were introduced.

"But as the rules changed, the game changes. I think we were able to have some game changers.

"Number one, (Dr) Mahathir (Mohamad's) role (in the opposition). Number two, DAP not using the 'rocket' logo.

"That was a clear message not only to those in (Pakatan) Harapan, but to everyone, that we will be able to rise above race, religion, region and political parties.

"I think it is a success to a certain extent," he added.

In the run-up to the general election, Umno resorted to its tried and tested tactic of frightening the Malay electorate.

Umno leaders and media outlets such as Utusan Malaysia and TV3 often warned the Malays that the predominantly-Chinese DAP posed a threat to their special position and Islam.

DAP leaders had dismissed this claims, accusing their political rivals of deliberate demonisation.

However, when Harapan parties decided to use a common logo – PKR's eye symbol – instead of their respective logos, Umno's campaign against DAP appeared to lose traction.

Observers also noted that the move convinced the Malays that Mahathir was indeed calling the shots in the coalition as opposed to Umno's claim that DAP was leading Harapan.

Apart from the two key "game changers", Lim said other factors leading to Harapan's historical win included ensuring a high voter turnout, taking risks by fielding key DAP leaders against BN heavyweights and generating a "Malay tsunami".

Read more of Malaysiakini's interview with Lim here.