Tunku Abdul Rahman - Formation of Malayan Union

Formation of Malayan Union

Further information: Malayan Union

On August 19, the surrender of the Japanese Army had became common knowledge in Alor Setar. With the Japanese surrender, several groups of people talked about Independence and discussed how it might be attained. Malay societies were formed all of the peninsular with similar objectives, but with no co-ordination. In Kedah, a body called "Saberkas" was the most active. Tunku's principal allies were all members of the society and he attended some of their discussions. But Tunku was already 40 years old and many of the members were only 20 or even younger and they grew impatient and hostile when Tunku cautioned them against trying to obtain Independence by force. After a time, Tunku resigned from active membership and continued only as their patron. On October 10, 1945, the Secretary of State for the Colonies issued his Policy Statement on a "Malayan Union." In Kedah, both the principal Malay organizations held protest meetings and rallies. Tunku spoke forcefully at these rallies, but he recommended opposition by peaceful means.

Sir Harold MacMichael, representing the British Government, arrived in Kuala Lumpur on October 11, 1945. he came to Alor Setar after visiting the Sultans of Johor, Selangor, Pahang, and Perak and securing their signatures to a new treaty. In Kedah, MacMichael was told that the Ruler would consult his Council of State before holding a discussion with him. With these consultations proceeded, rallies and processions in opposition to the treaty were held in every district and in the center of Alor Setar. Tunku was one of the most popular speakers in Alor Setar, Sungai Petani, and Kulim, but he was not invited to take part in any of the discussions convened by his half-brother, Sultan Badlishah. After three days of negotiations the Sultan followed the example of his brother rulers. The Sultan's surrender was vigorously criticized by the public and by Tunku. MacMichael flew back to London after securing all the signatures from the rulers for the new treaty. Then the British Prime Minister announced that the Malayan Union would come into effect on April 1, 1946. Tunku was despondent.

A British officer who had held Tunku's post before the war was appointed Superintendent of Education, Kedah. The State Government did not give Tunku any new post, and he remained passenger in the Education office. Despite of his immense popularity as a Malay leader, Tunku held no office in any Malay organisation, at a time when far-sighted planning and balanced opinions were of vital importance.