BOOK REVIEW: Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj

Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj is the Father of independence for Malaysian society. This is because of his contributions and sacrifices in bringing the country from colonialism to independence. He became the first prime minister of the Federation of Malaya from 1957 to 1963, and of Malaysia from 1963 to 1970. He was born at February 8, 1903 at Istana Pelamin in Alor Setar, Kedah. Tunku received his early education at Debsurin School in Bangkok and Penang Free School.

In his teenage age, he went to study at St. Catherine College, Cambridge University under the Kedah Government Scholarship. He finally received his Bachelor of Arts in Laws and History in 1925. He desired to make his homeland as an independent state, which is free from British colonialism. Realizing the Malay students there were not represented by any organization, he established the Kesatuan Melayu Great Britain (Malay Association of Great Britain).

After returning home, Tunku joined Kedah Civil Service as cadet in the Legal Advisor’s Officer, and then as a district officer in several Kedah districts. At that time, he is popular because of his outspokenness and tendency to introduce reforms in improving the living standard of people.

He had been appointed to be chairman of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO). On August 26, 1951, Tunku became the UMNO President succeeding Dato’ Onn Jaafar. In his office, he often promotes unity. During his time, the Alliance Party was emerged and won the country’s first general election in July 1955.

In 1956, he led a mission to London for a discussion with the British government concerning the independence for Malaya. The meeting resulted in the signing of the Independent Treaty at Lancaster House in London on February 8, 1956 and consequently, the independence of Malaya in August 31, 1957. 1957, the Tunku became its prime minister.


POSTED BY: EYLLIA ERYANI HELMILHUSAINI