Uncle Hashim tells how discrimination made him leave Malaysia

[superadmin]

PETALING JAYA: Two instances of favouritism by Malaysian authorities convinced Hashim Abdul Rahman to migrate to Australia half a century ago. He never returned, save for occasional visits and instead rose to prominence in Australia, becoming known as Uncle Hashim.

Last week, he received one of Australia’s highest honours, the Order of Australia Medal, for his services to the Muslim community and setting up halal certification.

Hashim said his heart never left the country, even though he had to give up Malaysian citizenship as an Australian public servant, and also to better represent Malaysians in Australia.

Reflecting on why he never returned, he said that family obligations and the favouritism that had gone against him helped make the choice clear.

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