KUALA LUMPUR: Immortalised in newspaper articles, Tunku, In his Own Words, chronicles Tunku Abdul Rahman's journey as the prime minister who ushered our country into independence, 52 years ago.
The book attempts to define the first prime minister, fondly dubbed "The Happy Prime Minister", through records of Tunku's speeches, plus comments and interviews with reporters, which date as far back as 1953, that were printed in various The New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd publications.
Tunku's paving the way for Malaysia's birth is narrated by old newspaper cuttings and black and white photographs of milestone events.
Although photographs are worth a thousand words, the worth of the Tunku's speeches surpasses any image.
| ‘Tunku, In his Own Words’ is available at all good book stores at RM130 a copy. |
In one speech printed in The Sunday Times in 1953, Tunku said: "We are as much opposed to colonialism as the Malayan Communist Party, but our strength does not come from hatred or bitterness but from righteousness and extreme patriotism..."
The book's historic value is evident not only in its record of Tunku's life but also of scenes of the country during that time, of which those born after the formation of Malaysia had no inkling of.
A seemingly uncomplicated time yet at moments, turbulent.
There were lighter moments as well. An interesting excerpt from The Malay Mail in 1957, at the beginning of the book explains "Is it Tengku - or Tunku?". Apparently, either had been correct though he preferred "Tunku".
This book, as much as it is Tunku's immortal legacy, is also our country's. It's a book to be given, kept and most of all, read.
In view of our 52nd Merdeka, this 215-page hardcover book, published by the NSTP, is available in all good bookstores at RM130 each.
For those on a weekend shopping spree at Suria KLCC mall, drop by the NSTP booth on the ground floor where the "Malaya to Malaysia (1941-1966)" exhibition is held, to get a copy.
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