Federation of Malaya Independence Act 1957 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Long title | An Act to make provision for and in connection with the establishment of the Federation of Malaya as an independent sovereign country within the Commonwealth. |
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| Citation | 5 & 6 Eliz. 2. c. 60 |
| Dates | |
| Royal assent | 31 July 1957 |
| Commencement | 31 August 1957 |
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Status: Current legislation
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| Text of statute as originally enacted | |
The Federation of Malaya Independence Act 1957 was a special law passed in the United Kingdom. It was very important because it helped the Federation of Malaya become an independent country. This Act officially started on July 31, 1957.
Before this law, Malaya was a British colony. This meant the British government had control over it. The Act allowed Malaya to become a free country and join the Commonwealth of Nations. The Commonwealth is a group of countries that used to be part of the British Empire but are now independent. Malaya officially became independent on August 31, 1957.
Contents
The Path to Independence
From British Control to Freedom
The Federation of Malaya was made up of several states and settlements. These included the states of Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor, and Terengganu. It also included the settlements of Penang and Malacca. Before 1957, these areas were under British rule.
The Malaya Independence Act 1957 changed this. It made Malaya a "sovereign country." This means it became a nation that could govern itself without outside control. It was a big step for the people of Malaya.
The Malayan Union and Federation
The story of Malaya's independence began earlier. In 1946, something called the Malayan Union was created. This was a way for the British to organize the different parts of Malaya. It included the Federated Malay States, the Unfederated Malay States, and the Straits Settlements.
However, the Malayan Union did not last long. After many discussions and agreements, the Malayan Union was replaced. On February 1, 1948, the Federation of Malaya was formed. This new setup helped to calm political issues and reduce tensions between different groups of people.
Achieving Full Autonomy
After years of hard work, the British government decided it was time for Malaya to be fully independent. This meant Malaya would have complete control over its own affairs. On August 31, 1957, the country officially gained its independence.
The first prime minister of independent Malaya was Tunku Abdul Rahman. He played a very important role in leading the country to freedom. He remained prime minister until 1970.
See also
- Hari Merdeka (Independence Day)
- Malayan Declaration of Independence
- United Nations Security Council Resolution 125
