MASYARAKAT MAJMUK DI TANAH MELAYU DAN USAHA KE ARAH MEMUPUK KERJASAMA ANTARA KAUM, 1946-1957

Abstract

The Malayan society was a multi-racial community with different backgrounds, cultures, languages, religions and beliefs. These differences became more obvious when they were segregated by occupations, settlements and education. These circumstances had influenced the plural society and shaped racial relationships in Malaya during the British administration. Racial tension emerged during the Japanese occupaton. After the end of the World War II, ethnic confliicts erupted over issues such citizenship to the non-Malays and their domination in economic sectors. Education had also shaped ethnic relations. Chinese involvement in communist movement and counter-insurgency measures including the Resettlement Scheme and Manpower Regulation and the establishment of the People's Republic of China particularly heightened the Sino-Malay hostility. Community leaders attempted in various ways to integrate the disputing groups, including the suggestion to admit non-Malays into UMNO, the establishment of the Communities Liaison Committee and the foudning of political parties including the IMP, Parti Negara, MCA and eventually the Alliance.