A "memoryscape" Malayan union 1946: The beginning and rise of modern Malay political culture

Abstract

This study researches an experiential and narration-oriented of historiography of an event in Malaysia, the Malayan Union 1946. The Malayan Union was introduced by the British just immediately after the end of the Second World War, the ending of Japanese Occupation in Malaya. In October, 1945, the British announced a bold decision to end their indirect rule in the Malay states through uniting all the states into a Malayan Union under a Governor with executive powers. The proposal also initiated a Malayan form of citizenship which would give equal rights to those who claim Malaya as their homeland. On 1st April 1946, the Malayan Union officially came into existence with Sir Edward Gent as the Governor. The Malays opposed the creation of the Union. Several aspects were seen to be the beginning and rise of modern Malay political culture; (1) the formation of a first Malay political party, (2) defending of the Sultanate as the highest Malay rulers, (3) defending the Malay rights and privileges of their homeland, (4) the reformation of Malay and Malayan politics, (5) the beginning of 'social contract' between the Malay and the non-Malay immigrants and their descendants, (6) the participation of non-Malays in Malayan politics, (7) birth of the independent of Malaya from the British, and (8) the birth of the Constitution of Malaysia. These factors shall be discussed as inscription of historical memory. Nevertheless, the post-Malayan Union that escalates to today's political landscape as somehow sees the event and situation differently as what being seen before. This study will analyze these thoughts through a constructive discussion inferring the future of Malaysian politics of pluralism.