The women who built Malaysia

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PETALING JAYA: Apart from the founding fathers of Malaysia, many individuals played important roles in developing the nation we know today, and not all were men. The women were right there in the mix.

This Merdeka Day, FMT takes a look at several pioneering women in Malaysian history, some of whom were at Merdeka Stadium when independence was declared, and their significant contributions to our country.

Devaki Krishnan

Devaki was the first elected woman in the country after winning a seat on the municipal council in Kuala Lumpur in 1952. She is also proudly the first Indian woman to drive a car in the capital city.

As a member of the civil defence, Devaki took charge of the medical clinic at Merdeka Stadium during the May 1969 riots, when she was recalled to care for some 3,500 riot victims and the homeless.

She also played a pivotal role in pushing for amendments to the Guardianship of Infants Act in 1999 to allow single mothers to care for their children.

Currently at the grand age of 98, the veteran politician is an MIC life member and the longest-standing member in the party.


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