A Malaysian Journey

by Rehman Rashid

A Malaysian journey

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Asia, Memoir

287 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Rehman Rashid was born in Taiping, Perak in 1955 and educated at the Malay College Kuala Kangsar and the University College of Swansea, Wales, retiring to the hills of Hulu Selangor in 2010 after a globe-trotting 30-year career in print, broadcast and online media. He has won Journalist of the Year awards in Malaysia (1985) and Bermuda (1991), and written four books: Pangkor: Treasure of the Straits (1990), A Malaysian Journey (1993), Small Town (2016), and Peninsula (2016).

Reviews

[Johnny B. Rempit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have no idea why I never read this book earlier. It has been in my to-read pile for a very, very long time. Long enough that the pages have actually begun to yellow. But finally, I took the plunge. And what a journey it was.

It starts of at a border crossing. The writer is about to arrive back to his beloved country after a number off years in self-imposed exile. It is the beginning of a journey. A journey of self discovery by the author as well as a journey into the history of Malaysia as a nation and more importantly, her people.

The chapters alternate between the very personal and touching tales of the author and the people he meets along the way in his journeys (both inside and outside of Malaysia) and the history of the land that would one day become Malaysia, from the heady days of the Malaccan sultanate all the way to the economic marvels of the early 90s. Rehman Rashid's style is compelling, lyrical and beautiful. He is obviously, unabashedly, truly in love with his country, warts and all.

I heartily recommend this book to anyone who wishes to learn more about Malaysia, especially if you are a non-citizen. But even if you are a true blue, teh tarik drinking, nasi lemak eating, double parking (five minutes only, honest) Malaysian, you should pick up this book and go through it, if ony to remind yourself that we have a great thing going on, that the great Malaysian tale has only really just begun, and that no matter what, through all the nonsense and cynicism that we face in our lives, we do live in a great country. If only those damn politicians could just shut the hell up!

[Ellen Whyte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this before I came to Malaysia 16 years ago. It was one of the best introductions I could have read. Well written, very poignant. Anyone interested in Malaysia should read this. It's an excellent one man view of some very interesting modern history.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having lived in Malaysia for a few years, I found this memior/history/political commentary to be very engaging. He weaves in stories of his upbringing in newly independent Malaysia with a really clear "greatest hits" of Malaysia's first decades of history. He is Indian-Malay and spends a lot of time talking about how issues of "race" have played into the Malaysian story. I do think this is readable for someone with very little knowledge of Malaysia, but it is made all the more richer with some familiarity with Malaysia and its government.

[Calley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked this up on a friend's recommendation when I was travelling to Malaysia, as I like to read a bit about the place I'm travelling. This was a great choice - an excellent primer on recent Malaysian history with a humorous personal touch. There are two interwoven stories - the author's personal history and how it intersected with Malaysia's independence and subsequent development, and anecdoes/travels from the author's recent return to Malaysia after 7 years away. I found the first far more interesting and better written than the modern anecdotes, which I felt were slow and laden with unnecessary trivia - not nearly as tightly written as the historical narrative. For the historical narrative alone, though, this is worth reading, especially if you're new to Malaysian history and politics. Start with the "History of Malaysia" wikipedia article to get your basic facts, then dive in - this is a solid, engaging read.

[Shafiq Razak Rajan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished A Malaysian Journey on my way back to New Zealand for my studies. Wrong choice, since now this book made me longingly remembering all the small towns and landscapes that I've passed by.

Although I don't agree with many of Rehman's worldview and his portrayal of history, I feel that his book is a passionate call for Malaysians to be Malaysians, and not merely members of their own races.

[Carlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book captures everything I love, hate and hope of/for (peninsular) Malaysia.

[Regina Ibrahim · Rating 4 out of 5]

i have no idea it was a self published book. Among my fisrt local English text that i took very seriously. Ianya adalah garapan dari ruang editorial yang mungkin diedit untuk jadi buku. Menarik untuk dibaca kisahnya dari kuala kubu baru, asal usul beliau dan macam macam lagi persoalan dirinya bila menghadapi negara Malaysia.

Sesekali akan kedengara rungutan dia tentang negara tercinta.

Orangnya sangat berhemah tinggi, lama berada di NST.

Dalam buku ini ada dikisahkan pengalamannya datang ke belakang pentas sewaktu teman temanku bersiap siap untuk bikin show Mak Nyah di Pulau Pinang... the mannequeen. Sungguh lucu.
Buku ini dicetak semua dua tahun lepas kerana isi isinya masih relavan.

Inalillahiwaninahirojium. Al fatihah....

[Lyana Khairuddin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I probably should have read the books in their proper sequence. Written 23 years before Peninsula- the events mentioned here felt foreign to me; perhaps my own naivéte of childhood (the book was written when I was 10 years old and described events that happened before I was even conceived) combined with the self-check after the emotional turbulence of having dived too readily into Peninsula kept me at bay. There is no missing Mr Rehman Rashid's mastery of words, but somehow this account felt more bitter than the recent work. Was it age? Experience? Mellowness (if indeed such a prolific writer can mellow?)- but Peninsula felt more at ease, more... at home for me. I digress, maybe the two books are meant to show what Malaysia has become today. Both books can be read with optimist or pessimist lens. Yet both books should serve as reminders to all of us Malaysians to firstly, know our own history; two, to keep speaking up and work (in opposition to "shut up and work" as mention in A Malaysian Journey- because we have been silenced for far too long) and three, to somehow reclaim this country from our diktats. WE MAKE/ARE MALAYSIA, not our politicians.

[Vinod Muniandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read (and finished) this book while flying out of Malaysia on a dreadful flight back to place that I didn’t want to be. This makes the whole reading experience somber and emotionally anchored to home. Many Malaysians live abroad and work in different countries and most of the time, it’s not something that goes down delicately. Most of us miss home. This book triggers deep into our state of mind, un-enthusiastically mirroring the lives we lead. I was more fascinated by the writer's narrative about his life than the Malaysian history. It was just an anecdote to spun his own journey. It was well placed but sometimes not entirely relevant. Nevertheless this is a giant book and it curries the vibrancy of this beautiful country.

[Chen Ann Siew · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gem. Rehman’s writing style is humorous and easy to read. An interesting and authentic account of developments in Malaysia from the perspective of someone born just before independence, possibly the first generation of NEP benefactors, and someone with access to important personalities during those years in Malaysia. A must read for anyone who’s interested to learn more about contemporary Malaysian history beyond what was taught in schools. What was refreshing especially in the current political climate, was also Rehman’s belief and wish in a Malaysia where race becomes irrelevant. A wish that is also shared by many across the causeway.

[Lynette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really enjoying this well-written memoir/commentary. I lived in Singapore for 28 years, married to a Malaysian, and heard only bits and pieces about Malaysian politics but never really fully understood it. This is filling in the gaps.

[Cathreen Shiucheng · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the way Rehman wrote! It's a page-turning book in knowing more of your country-- and just in time for the 60th Merdeka celebration! Malaysia has lost a great writer like you. #RIPRehman

[Storm Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on Malaysia in the 1980s ever. Haunting.

[Emily]

I wasn’t going to write a review of this (I have no idea how to rate it lol), I didn’t think my thoughts were worthwhile enough to put down; partly because this book wasn’t what I was expecting—I was thinking there would be more traveling-through-Malaysia descriptions, but the autobiography and especially the political (economics-filled) history of modern Malaysia took major precedence, which the author sometimes described with dramatic (biased? journalistic? not necessarily a bad thing, he wasn’t pretending or trying to be some sort of stuffy “impartial” historian, this was part autobiography after all) language? BUT I am briefly writing down my thoughts because I really enjoyed the last couple of chapters on the book. Specifically, Chapter 15 really hit hard, and The Journey Home was very poignant. In the end, I am happy I decided to finish this book and get a glimpse into understanding a complex culture and society that I knew little about.

[Cheryl Chong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being Singaporean, I don’t have many excuses to be ignorant about neighbouring countries in SEA - least of all Malaysia. This was an absolutely compelling read.

Mr Rashid had a rare ability to imbue a lyrical quality into the ordinary, base and banal, coupled with a genuinely curious, empathetic eye for his characters. His dexterity as a storyteller comes up in equal parts in both the autobiographical/memoir and historical parts of the narrative.

Yes, the writing veers into a verbose, self indulgent style in parts, particularly in the closing chapter, but it worked well enough for most of the text.

My only regret is not having read his work sooner.

[Jasmin Mohd-zain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book ..so effortlessly narrating the scenario of that times contemporary affairs and pop culture; intertwined with his personal memoir.

Best described as on the back sleve of the book :

" This is the story of a Malaysian born in the twilight of British Malaya, growing up in an independant Malaysia, attaining maturity as his nation approaches the turn of the millenium...and this is the story of Malaysia's own growth, as seen through his eyes"

Lovely tome.
Rest in Peace, Rehman. Alfatihah.

[Mariyah Shahrin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adopted this book from my parents (which was recommended by them) and wow. So many times throughout this book, I felt tears coming up. I think he perfectly encapsulates the sometimes complicated feelings you can have about home - the sense of love, pride, and the “I’ll always be Malaysian” vs the anger and disappointment you can feel about how the country is ran, and the “What could’ve been”’s. I keep coming back to this book, especially having lived abroad for so many years cause it feels like a warm hug, and a sit-down kopitiam chat with the uncles at the same time.

[Silverprince · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exemplary book of what a piece of life mixed with a country's history kind of book should be like. Rehman Rashid beautifully writes about each of Malaysia's states' uniqueness and calamity (if any). I especially liked reading the historical sections of the book where he writes about Dr. Mahathir, May 13th, Merdeka (independence) day and more.

Many of the words used were quite "high-end". I found myself not recognising the fancy English words on every page, but this wasn't a turn-off for me. More of a wakening call that I need to improve my English vocabulary!

[Al Zaquan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writer's voice is verbose and deeply self-important, this made the in-between chapters (the ones more personal, rather than historical) pretty grating to read. He has a sentimentality for a Malaysia that never was, and its this same hopefuleness (for a Malaysia that transcends race, and a racial harmony that reflects election-time posters) that makes this an endearing, important read.

[Shern Shiou · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite Malaysian author. A Malaysian Journey is a book that I will definitely revisit several times in the future. It clearly pointed what has happened to Malaysia and the core problem we as a Malaysian are facing. This is not only a book about the journey of Rehman but also a book about the journey of the country. It is A Malaysian Journey and also Malaysia Journey.

[Justine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Also read in memory of the author who has passed on earlier this year. A reminder of my nation's history albeit not in the form of a textbook but a much more appealing medium and enchanting English.

[Sharifah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The right book to read pre- and post-GE14 elections as it reasonates well with the issues that have always been (and still are) with Malaysia. Truly enjoyed myself reading the late author's journey and refreshed myself with Malaysian history too. Thank you Rehman for publishing a well written book, which i hope will still reasonate well with the young Malaysians in the future.

[Siti Nor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

[Sanford Chee]

Recommended by Yishen & Taufik

[Francesco Castellani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't expect a journalist to write so well! This book was a most pleasant discovery.

[Ditesh Gathani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rehman Rashid one said that there is always the right word for every sentence and for every situation.

In A Malaysian Journey, Rehman uses words with alacrity and fervour, colourfully describing the many hues of the country, painting the richness of the people and its culture, of its cities and towns, of the collective hopes and aspirations, interweaving and drawing parallels between periods of his life with that of the country.

The book is optimistic and seductive, to a point. He also writes about the dark triad of religion, race and politics of the country, and the challenges the country has had in navigating its own history. His description is carefully balanced and does justice to the travails and circumstances of the country's history.

Rehman's work is a joy to read because of it flows like a symphony, yet his true talent is in describing things as they are, not as they should be or could be. He draws on his knowledge of the arc of history of the country to provide a coherent narrative, and the the strength of that narrative builds chapter to chapter.

The book was a great read, and I would recommend it highly to Malaysians as a source to understand the country, and each other, better.

[Cassandra Chung · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading "Peninsula: A Story of Malaysia" some years back (you can find my review of it here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), Rehman Rashid entered my list of favourite authors. I immediately began scouring my usual haunts for a copy of "A Malaysian Journey" and in the process of doing so, discovered that this book had long gone out of publication. Finally, after much perseverance (and gnashing of teeth), I managed to obtain a copy from a second hand goods platform.

A person with zero attachment to Malaysia would describe this book as a detailed social commentary on 90s Malaysia, penned by a seasoned journalist. To a certain extent, that is true: each chapter is dedicated to a specific portion of the Malaysian life be it day-to-day community living, politics, work, religion or race. Being a seasoned journalist, Rashid's commentary is unsurprisingly sharp and insightful as well. But to limit this book to just those descriptions would be doing it a great disservice. As a self-described patriot who deeply identifies with the author's post-exile emotions (a result of me being overseas to study for a few years), this book isn't just another expert social commentary.

Rather, this book is a compilation of musings of a forlorn soul, broken by his crushed hopes of what Malaysia could have been and could be. A kindred soul (in this case, me) would be able to feel Rashid's deep, unreciprocated love for Malaysia dripping through every word written in this book. What can I say about this book, apart from the fact that I finished it in tears and that it left me with a deeper love for this country I call home? I struggle to find the right words because there will never be a satisfactory answer for those who ask of me "Why do you love Malaysia so much?"

[Fajar Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I introduced this book for my book club since it's Merdeka month and then ended up completing a reread. The way Rehman Rashid can pinpoint all the sources of the troubles we face in Malaysia is amazing and uncanny. What's worst - all the patterns that he outlined in this book have persisted until today!

I first read this around the time PH won and lamented the fact that Mr Rashid wasn't here to see Malaysia finally break the patterns. Now I'm glad he is peacefully resting as it all went to hell again shortly after (not that this would have surprised him). Even our beloved PH is betraying the country with their de-gazetting of forest reserves.

I digress, this book, despite being almost thirty years old at this point, is a 'must read' for every young Malaysian who wants to understand the roots and heart of their country. This book condenses our history down to its most important moments while providing essential context that you will never gain from reading a text book. One chapter will have you falling in love with our land and people while the next will have you frowning with a familiar frustration at all the failings of our leaders. The journey for a better Malaysia is bittersweet.

[Qazi Sufian Javed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this book because of an upcoming trip to Malaysia, my first. I thought it'd be a good idea to know a little something about the history of the country I'm visiting. So I googled, 'must read books on Malaysia', and almost every hit had this book as one of the recommendations. Now, I half-expected myself to labour through these 280 pages over a month and still be clueless about what Malaysia is all about. Because that's exactly how political autobiographies turn out to be, no? Boy, was I wrong!

Rehman Rashid is blessed with the beautiful gift of eloquence. His command over the English language is humbling and does not fail to render the reader speechless. Apart from the author's rich expression, account of his travels across Malaysia are fascinating, engulfing and intimately depicted. And he combines his personal life with Malaysian history expertly with not an iota of break in the flow. Overall, a very enjoyable read and should be on every tourist's to-read list!

The biggest drawback is the availability of this book. I ordered a copy from www.mphonline.com, an online Malaysian bookstore :).

[Noorhaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

An evocative journey through time, from the last years of Malaya under British rule, spanning almost 40 years, ending somewhere midway through Tun Mahathir's premiership. I keep having to remind myself that this is Malaysia as seen through one man and his experience of a nation at the time of its birth, infancy, and decades of growing pains. His description sometimes comes across as terribly bitter, which makes me wonder if I'm just overly optimistic or blind to the realities that the rest of Malaysia faces. Yet a lot of what he describes, some twenty years ago, still ring true to this day.

One portion that struck me was his account of the meeting with Rahim Nor, Director of the Special Branch at the time. What a faithful description of my neighbour!

Have a dictionary on hand while reading this book. Rehmad Rashid is eloquent, although at times his prose threatens to turn purplish.