Penglibatan Orang Melayu dalam Industri Pengilangan Beras di Kedah, 1938-1971 (Malay Participation in the Rice Milling Industry in Kedah, 1938-1971)

Abstract

This paper discusses the Malay involvement in the rice milling industry in Kedah from 1938 to 1971. Initially, the industry operated through traditional methods, resulting in a relatively slow rice production entering the market. However, Chinese capitalists began to dominate the industry after acquiring concessions from the Kedah rulers in the late 19th century. Despite Malays comprising the majority of paddy growers in Kedah, the rice milling sector was largely controlled by Chinese capitalists. The aim of this study is to examine how Malays sought to challenge this dominance, either individually or through the Cooperative Rice Millers Society (CRMS). Previous research has overlooked this issue, leading to its relative obscurity. Utilizing historical research methods and focusing on primary sources from the National Archives of Malaysia and the National Archives of Malaysia Kedah/Perlis Branch, including files from the Kedah State Secretary's Office, this study reveals that Malays, despite facing financial constraints and limited government support, ventured into rice milling and competed with Chinese capitalists through strong networks. This research underscores the significance of Malay participation in the rice milling industry both before and after independence.