THE FEDERATED MALAY STATES'TACIT INVOLVEMENT IN THE FIRST WORLD WAR, 1914-1918

Abstract

Historical writings on the Peninsular Malay States during the First World War between 1914 and 1918 are very much lacking. This article is an effort to fill this gap by examining the Federated Malay States' (FMS) involvement in the war in particular in relation to the financial and economic contributions made by the territory to the British war efforts. Through an examination of primary sources, including the legislative records of the FMS, this article shows that the war had a significant impact on the Malay states even though the Federated Malay States were not directly involved in the First World War. This research investigates the various dimensions through which the Malay states became indirectly involved in the war through an examination of the various legislation passed by the Federal Council and the ensuing debates and shows how these laws affected the general well being of the population in Malaya. The article also provides a deeper insight into the reactions of the Rulers and the people towards these laws.