By M.H.Yakeem
Sri-Lanka Malay Association Centenary Commemoration January 1922 – 2022
The Sri-Lanka Malay Association, the oldest Sri-Lanka Malay institution in the Country celebrates its Centenary Anniversary on the 22 January 2022. Established on the 22 of January 1922, with a gathering of Malays of all parts of the Island, assembled at the Wekande Hall in Slave Island with a soul purpose of forming a body to address the welfare of their community. The gathering a representation serving in various fields be it the Military, the Estates, the Government services, Commercial enterprises including entrepreneurs the task of solidarity was born. This resulted in the Establishment of the All Ceylon Malay Association on the 22 of January we reach a major milestone when the association heralds in its First Centenary.
Recalling that significant day, to preside at that august assembly, Sri-Lanka’s law luminary, the late Justice M.T .Akbar proposed the name of AlHaj Dr. T.B .Jayah as Chairman pro term. Little did they foresee that late Dr. Jayah would go on to be a key figure acclaimed as a national hero in the struggle for the Independence of the Nation and serve as a Minister of the first Parliament. While Justice Akbar himself respected legal advocate who was responsible for many national policy decisions subsequently was appointed to the Supreme Court bench.
The founder President of the SLMA was the late Mr. M .K. Saladin who also served in the legislature in 1931 and his successors too served the in the legislature, AlHaj Dr. T.B.Jayah in 1924/ 1948; Late Dr. Drahaman in 1956; Late Mr. Zahiere Lye in 1963 ; Late Mr. M .D. Kithchilan appointed to the Senate in 1965 ; the Late Justice M .T. Akbar appointed member of the Supreme Court in 1929.
The interaction and advent of the Malays could be traced as far back as the 6th or 7th Century. They have amalgamated well with the main stream community sharing their unique culture and traditions. Today these facets could be could be seen Island wide enriching the life styles of the populace. Same the brothers and sisters, contributing. much to the development of the community in academic, corporate business, the Tri Forces and Police, aesthetic, social services and in many other fields also Sports.
Many events have been planned to mark the centenary year inaugurating with the Centenary Commemoration such as a First day cover to be launched on the 22 January at the Padang Complex, ” Pasar Malam” a hawker street styled Malay Food Festival with a Malay Cultural show , a Malay Rally and a Heroes Day, an event of blessings as a mark of respect to the fallen Malay heroes and all who sacrificed their lives in the protection of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our mother land.
