On This Day: September 16, 1963 – The Formation of Malaysia
The Formation of Malaysia – How Malaya, Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak United
The establishment of the Federation of Malaysia which included Malaya, Singapore, British North Borneo, and Sarawak completed the milestone of nationhood set on 16th September, 1963. Every year, this day is referred to as Malaysia Day.
How Malaysia Was Formed
The 1957 British grant of independence to Malaya and its subsequent decisions to unite with Singapore, and the British territories of North Borneo and Sarawak, mark the beginning of Malaysia’s formation. The motivation was to strengthen the economy and provide stability to the region.
The nation was formed with a bounded set of hopes and expectations, even utopian at its core. Malaysia was born.
Celebrations and Challenges
The day of independence was truly spectacular. It was marked with joyous parades and ceremonies, celebrating the newfound independence. While Sarawak and Sabah enjoyed their independence after a long period of colonial rule, Singapore joined with expectations and high hopes.
Conflicts arose as well, with the union of the two countries. The changes were threatened by a few countries as well, with Indonesia and the Philippines being the most notable. Singapore even branched off and became an independent nation in 1965, two years after the formation of the Malaysia federation.
Why Malaysia Day Matters Today
Malaysia Day is not merely an event in history; it is a part of our identity. While Merdeka Day (31 August) celebrated Malaya’s independence, September 16 celebrates the time the whole of Malaysia came together. In 2010, it was declared a national holiday, thereby giving it the same status as Merdeka.
For Malaysians, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, the day serves as a reminder of togetherness and equal collaboration in the federation.
Looking Back
After the country’s formation in 1963, the region’s map was changed for the first time with Malaysia as the centrepiece. It was a feat of marvellous boldness and intricacy, fraught with complications, that still helps to underpin the framework of Malaysia today. Even after more than 60 years, the 16th of September continues to evoke feelings of oneness, and serves as one of the most potent reminders of the birth of this nation.
