KHATIJAH SIDEK was the first head of the women’s wing of UMNO to demand equal rights for its members. At the 1953 UMNO general assembly, the vociferous orator fought for greater representation for women at the national level. Her approach made her a controversial politician amongst the male dominated conservative party leadership which was not yet prepared to allow a bigger role for women at the highest level. She was labelled as hot headed and too much of a radical for UMNO, a party which placed a high premium on moderation, compromise and avoidance of open conflict. This was, however, not in tune with the open confrontational style of this Sumatera-born leader bent on fighting prejudices. It was this leadership style of hers that paved the way for conflict with the top echelon of the party, culminating in her dismissal. Her memoirs attests to the fact that Malaysian political culture is indeed seldom tolerant of fiery politicians practising Khatijah Sidek'’ brand of politics.