E.E.C. Thuraisingham: a Malaysian patriot (UM Press)

Book excerpt: This book describes the role and influence of Dato’ Sir Ernest Emmanuel Clough Thuraisingham in Malaysian politics and society during a formative period. Thuraisingham was a member of the Federal Legislative Council from 1948 and served as the chairman of the influential Communities Liaison Committee and as Member for Education. A close confidante of Dato’ Onn Jaafar, Thuraisingham played a leading role with Onn in the formation of the Independence of Malaya Party in 1951 and sought to instill a non-communal approach to Malayan politics. In the post-independence period he served as a Senator. A horse racing enthusiast, Thuraisingham served as chairman of the Selangor Turf Club for 25 years and was active in social welfare activities. His life has received scant attention and this book is intended to document his contributions, political thoughts and ideas.