Malay representation needed in Parliament

Representatives of Malay Organization

By Ruzaik Farook

The Malay Community in Sri Lanka launched a movement called “Bangun”, meaning “Wake up” at the All Ceylon YMMA Conference Auditorium, Colombo recently. It was held under the patronage of Attorney at Law T. K. Azoor. 

The main objective of this movement is to restore Malay representation in Parliament.

T.K. Azoor mentioned in his speech that Malays have lived in Sri Lanka for over 350 years. During this long period, they have contributed in many valuable ways to the country. He recalled that the late Dr. T.B. Jayah in the State Council, without doubt, quickened the granting of Independence to Ceylon. This was acknowledged by late Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. He also noted that in the last 25 years, there has been no Malay representative in Parliament. 

He recalled the following Malay representatives who once adorned the Legislature: Dr. T.B. Jayah 1924 – 1930, Legislative Council; M.K. Saldin 1931 – 1936, Legislative Council; Dr. T.B. Jayah 1936 – 1947, State Council; Dr. T.B. Jayah 1947 – 1950, Parliament; Dr. M.P. Drahaman 1956—1960, Parliament; Dr. T.B. Jayah March 1960 - May 1960, Parliament; B. Zahiere Lye July 1960 – 1965, Parliament; M.D. Kitchilan 1966 – 1970, Senate; and M.H. Amit 1989 – 1994, Parliament. 

Over 26 Malay organisation representatives were present at this meeting, and unanimously elected T.K. Azoor as a President of the movement “Bangun”.