The sight of A Samad Said - a slight figure with snow white long hair and beard, clad in his signature white - addressing thousands of protesters at rallies is nothing short of inspiring.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that many - especially young people from all ethnic backgrounds - think of him as a living legend.

Samad also has another nickname - Gandalf - a nod to the wise wizard in white from author JRR Tolkien’s masterpiece, Lord of the Rings.

At 80, Pak Samad, as he is affectionately known, has achieved much accolade and recognition not just in Malaysia but also in the region.

He is a writer, poet, novelist, journalist, playwright and painter. He is among five regional writers to win the prestigious SEA Writer's Award in its inaugural year in 1979...