Malay women in the struggle for independence
Dive into the political journey of Aishah Ghani, Sakinah Junied, and Shamsiah Fakeh.
Nevertheless, little has been done to fill a gap in the literature about women involvement in the struggle for independence
Historiographical oversight has been in conundrum with the attempts by the historians to promote Malaysian-centric historiography since the early period of post-independence. Prominent women such as Aishah, Sakinah, and Shamsiah remain unfamiliar names to the younger generations these days.
Less attention to the participation of women in the struggle for independence or relegating their role in that process pose a threat to attempts to understand the history of Malaysia in its full context.
The significance of women’s contribution to the independence movement as well as their involvement in the campaign for the betterment of society could inspire patriotism and empower women today.
Life Twists and Turns
Aishah, Sakinah, and Shamsiah graduated from Madrasah Diniyyah Puteri in Padang Panjang, Sumatra. All of them embarked on their political journey through Angkatan Wanita Sedar (AWAS).
Madrasah Diniyyah Puteri equipped them with the core skills to succeed in politics, such as leadership skills, diligence, and persistence on issues related to women's emancipation. It was all embedded in a curriculum that emphasised public speaking, religious reform and renewal (Islah and Tajdid), and language mastery.
Aishah was the leader of AWAS before she left the party and was replaced by Shamsiah in 1946. Meanwhile, Sakinah was a prominent figure of AWAS in Perak. Nevertheless, the chains of events in post-1948 witnessed them diverging paths in their political journey.
Aishah Ghani
Aishah joined the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) in 1949 and emphasised works that would help to improve and empower Malay women. Her dedication and credibility earned her numerous positions, including Malaysia’s first female senator and the first female representative to the United Nations.
Shamsiah Fakeh
Shamsiah, took a more radical route in her political journey. In 1948, weeks before the British declared emergency, Shamsiah decided to join the Malayan Communist Party (PKM).
Her decision led to her exile until 1994. Despite the controversy, Shamsiah remained steadfast in her belief that the PKM was the best choice for her to fight against the British.
Sakinah Junied
Sakinah Junied was known as “Wanita Zaman Atom." She was a staunch anti-colonialist in Perak. In the post of AWAS era, Sakinah channelled her political agenda through the Party Islam Se-Malaysia (Pas). Her popularity was proven as she was appointed as the leader of the Pas Women Council from 1963 to 1983.
An internal crisis that occurred in PAS in the early 1980s led her to continue her political journey through HAMIM alongside her husband.
The history of the political journey of Aishah, Shamsiah and Sakinah illustrates the dynamic and heterogeneity adopted by Malay women in their struggle for decolonization. It demonstrates that a deeper understanding and close scrutiny are crucial. History offers lessons from the past, therefore, the essence of the idea and the steadfastness of these women remain relevant and inspiring.
The call for documentation of the contribution and involvement of women in the struggle for independence does not diminish the contributions of men. The saga of their bravery is crucial to inspiring us today.
Associate Professor Dr. Nazirah Lee
History Department
Faculty of Human Sciences
Sultan Idris Education University
