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For the descendents of Richard Dearie and his son John Russell

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The Straits Times, 12 January 1937, Page 7 
COAL PRODUCTION. The total production of coal in the F.M.S. during November last amounted to 38.136 tons, which was produced on Malayan Collieries mine at Batu Arang in Selangor.

The Straits Times, 15 January 1937, Page 12 The Straits Times 15 January 1937 page 12 Mr. S. Brown of Messrs J. A Russell and Co., Kuala Lumpur, has returned from leave.

The Straits Times, 24 January 1937, Page 22
 Big Ball For Mr. Loke's Coming Of Age ((F.O.O.C. K.L.), Saturday. ONE of the social "highlights of the season "is being provided tonight by Mrs. Loke Yew, widow of Dr. Loke Yew, C.M.G., who is staging a ball unrivalled in magnificence for their youngest son, Mr. Loke Wan Tho, on the occasion of his coming of age. Kuala Lumpur Society is assembled under the roof of the resplendent pavilion specially erected in the garden of “Goodwood”, the Ampang Road home of the Loke Yew family. Hung with fairy-lights, greenery, bunting and streamers, the pavilion presents an unforgettable spectacle as some 300 people dance on a spring floor which lays good claim to being the largest in the country, to the lively music of Dan Hopkins and his full band, specially summoned from Raffles Hotel, Singapore. Pavilion, floor and orchestral dias were constructed in 24 hours to the decorative designs of Mr. Chew Sze Foong, millionaire friend of the “birthday child”, to which have been added microphone and amplifiers. The Hon Mr. C. D. Ahearne, Federal Secretary, proposed the health of Loke Wan Tho, and among those present are: -… Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Russell…. Mr. and Mrs. Drysdale… ( N.B. very long list. Ed.)

The Straits Times, 2 March 1937, Page 12
Judgment Debtor Summons Against Administrator. KUALA LUMPUR HEARING. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Mar. 1. A LARGE number of barristers were present in the Supreme Court today to listen to the hearing before the Chief Justice, Sir Samuel Joyce Thomas, of a judgment debtor summons which has aroused considerable local interest. Mr. Robert Cecil Russell, as administrator of the estate of Mr. Khoo Khye Cheah (deceased) appeared on the judgment debtor summons, having failed- it was contended- to comply with an order of Mr. Justice Pedlow in regard to costs in connection with a civil suit concerning the estate of Khoo Khye Cheah which was the subject of a prolonged hearing last year. At the last hearing Mr. Justice Pedlow gave judgment in favour of the administrator of the estate (Mr. Russell), but at a subsequent hearing with regard to costs the judge had ordered that Mr. Russell should pay the costs of Khoo Boo Hooi, the adopted son of the deceased… Mr. Ford appeared for Mr. Russell… an adjournment was refused…His Lordship said costs were not paid Mr. Joaquim said… “ It is quite clear there is nothing against Mr. Russell personally. It is only against him as administrator of this estate. …has to abide by court order.. provided he has funds… it has not been shown to me that he has not those funds… “Therefore Mr. Russell acting on the advice of Mr. Ford very wisely paid the money into the court at the last moment.. so as not to be confined.. for contempt of court… “As far as I can see, he is not entitled to pay that money into court subject to conditions; if he wanted any condition attached, he should have applied without delay to the court. In these matters, a person who gets in touch with the court first is in a much better position. Mr. Russell did nothing of the sort until Mr. Joaquim took out the judgment debtor summons; only then the money has been paid into court. But as I have said Mr. Russell attempts to impose conditions. That is something quite new, to my mind in procedures attaching to execution of judgments….. notice of appeal.. stay of execution… location of judge…The money having been paid into court, Mr. Joaquim will be entitled to take it out for his client” (875 words)

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser 4 March 1937, Page 3 
 LOCAL COAL FIND ILLUSIONS SHATTERED. Deposit Is Of No Commercial Value. VERY LIMITED EXTENT (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur. Feb. 2. THE well-remembered minor sensation caused in Singapore by a find of coal on the property of the Alexandra brickworks m Pasir Panjang Road last year has found a place in a report by the Director of Geological survey, F.M.S., which has just been published. It states that the deposit is of no commercial value and very limited in extent. (Summary: age of rocks, no plant remains, “ Mr. John Drysdale, of Malayan Collieries Ltd., who also made an examination of the coal describes it as ‘dry ash-free coal…almost pure carbon and contains more of this element and less volatile matter than the high rank anthracite coals, but, due to low hydrogen content, has not such a high calorific value as they have’. “The analysis indicates that the coal must have undergone great pressure; it has not the ordinary characteristics of having been subjected to the heat of igneous intrusion.)”(309 words) & The Straits Times, 4 March 1937, Page 13 
"BIG POSSIBILITIES" FOR TIN MINING IN DINDINGS. F. M. S. Geologist's View Of Prospects. COAL OF SMALL COMMERCIAL VALUE. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Mar. 3. THE possibility of tin mines springing up in the Dindings is visualised by the F.M.S. Director of Geological Survey, Mr. E. S Willbourn, in his annual report. (526 words) 


The Straits Times, 7 March 1937, Page 16 Elephants' Teeth Found On Tin Mines Puzzle Experts Are They OVER 30,000 YEARS OLD? Are They PLIOCENE OR PLEISTOCENE? Are They ELEPHAS NAMADICUS? INTERESTING facts from the 1936 report of Mr. E. S. Willbourn, the Director of Geological Survey, F.M.S., which was issued last week:…. “A visit was made to the coal mine operated by Malayan Collieries, Limited, at Batu Arang, Selangor, and interesting developments were studied. During the year a monthly average of more than 40,000 tons of coal was produced, most of it for consumption on the railways and in the tin-fields, a very concrete sign that the prosperity of the country has been re-established.”

The Straits Times, 20 March 1937, Page 2 & The Straits Times, 22 March 1937, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD. …NOTICE is Hereby given that the Twenty-third Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Company will be held at the Registered Office of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on Thursday, March 30, 1937 at noon. (Etc.). By Order of the Board, J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd. Secretaries. K.L. F.M.S. March 19, 1937.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 24 March 1937, Page 3
 and The Straits Times, 23 March 1937, Page 17
 SELANGOR CLUB (FOOC) KL Mar 20 The following have been elected office- bearers of the Selangor Club: Vice-President Mr. R. C. Russell. Committee: Messrs. F. W. Palmer, G. O. Hovil, L.R. Kerridge, C.R.M. Stutely and Colin H. Miller. Government Nominees; Messrs. A. Sleep and P. H. Forbes. Cricket Members: Messrs. Stafford Northcote and C. Mills. Rugby Member: Mr. A. V. Thomas. Association Football Member: Mr. J. M. Laing Hockey Member: Mr. W. J. Peel Lawn Tennis and Bowls: Mr. R. J. Macdonald Bennett. General Supervision: Mr. R. H. White.

THE MALAY MAIL, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24, 1937 & The Straits Times, 25 March 1937, Page 7 MALAYAN COLLIERIES' PROFITS JUMP. Reflecting Improvement In Tin Mining Industry & MALAYAN COLLIERIES’ BIGGER PROFITS Result Of Improved Conditions In Tin Industry $858,350 NEW CAPITAL ISSUE IMPROVEMENT in the Malayan coal industry in consequence of the improved conditions in the tin mining industry are reflected in the annual report of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., to be presented at the annual meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. The report of the General Managers, Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., shows that sales increased by almost 34 per cent. on the previous year, the increase being attributed principally to the demand for small coal as the result of the high percentage tin quota which obtained throughout the year. The profits for the year amounted to $596, 374.80 compared with $469, 970 last year. NEW CAPITAL It is proposed to make a new capital issue of $858,350 in ten dollar shares, the General Managers explaining that during the early years of the depression considerable encroachment was made upon liquid reserves to carry through a capital expenditure programme which very materially assisted the company through the depression to the present improved conditions. Further capital expenditure is now required, and will be required from time to time, and rather than depend entirely on profits for this the directors have decided to proceed with a new capital issue. The directors’ report states: Production continued to be confined to the Batu Arang Colliery. The quantity of coal sold shewed a satisfactory increase upon the previous year, this being in keeping with the continued improvement in the tin mining industry and industry in Malaya generally. All expenditure of a capital nature was in the improvement of the Batu Arang undertaking, the item Buildings being unusually heavy. This was due to the accelerated replacement by permanent buildings of a number of temporary shops and lines which were demolished by fire and to an attempt to replace as many as possible of the remaining temporary buildings with those of a permanent nature. The plant and equipment installed was again of a general colliery nature both on the surface and underground. The operation of the subsidiary undertakings was influenced by markets for the products and towards the close of the year the position had materially improved. FINANCIAL POSITION Investments were increased by the purchase of $131,400 worth of 3 per cent F. M. S. Loan. The profits for the year under review, subject to the directors’ fees amount to……….$596.374.30 To which is to be added the un-appropriated balance from the previous year ……………… 264.233.65 860.608.45 Deduct three interim dividends each of 2 ½ per cent. totalling 7 ½ per cent. on 257.505 shares were paid during the year, absorbing……193.128.75 667.479.70 You will be asked to sanction fees to directors In respect of 1936 at the rate of………………...20.000.00 Leaving available ………………..647.479.70 Which the directors recommend should be Dealt with as follows A final dividend of 7 ½ per cent. on the 257.505 shares making 15 per cent. for the year 1936 193.128.75 Write off leasehold property 100.000.00 293.128.75 Balance to carry forward to next year’s account $354.350.95 Accompanying the report is a circular letter dated March 22, 1937 advising shareholders of the decision of the board to make an issue of shares at par. Shareholders on the register at March 30, 1937, are invited to subscribe to this new issue at the rate of one new share at par for every three shares held. The issue will make available the sum of $858, 350 towards future capital expenditure. Mr. H. H. Robbins and Mr R. C. Russell retire and being eligible offer themselves for re-election. Mr. J. Drysdale acted for a time during the year as alternate director. Messrs. Evatt & Co. (auditors) retire and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election. GENERAL MANAGERS’ REPORT EFFECT OF HIGH TIN QUOTA The General Managers’ report states: The sales shewed an increase of almost 34 per cent. on the previous year. The increase was principally in the demand for small coal as the result of the high percentage tin quota which obtained throughout the year. The larger portion of production was from underground mines, Nos. 2, 6 and 7 districts of the East Mine and underground units Nos. 3, 4 and 7 being the principal winning places. In most cases the modified long-wall system of extraction was adopted. Hydraulic stowage arrangements continued to operate satisfactorily. The extension of the main dip and its companion way was continued and No. 3 district has been opened up. The connection to underground No. 3 unit was made by extension of No. 17 level East Mine. No. 4 district East Mine and underground No. 7 were opened as producing units. Production at the block between opencasts Nos. 5 and 7 was completed, and a block in opencast No. 5 was being developed. Nos. 3 and 8 were the main producing units. Two electric shovel-dragline machines in conjunction with locomotives and the necessary waggon rolling stock were employed on shale stripping. A commencement was made on the opening up of opencast No. 9. The coal washery worked throughout and satisfactory performance was maintained. FIRE DAMAGE Buildings and plant were maintained in good order, and the process of replacing temporary buildings by permanent ones was continued. A fire in a temporary section of the village necessitated the speeding up of this programme. Thirty-six shop houses, a set of Tamil lines and some artisan quarters had to be built to replace those destroyed. The power plant continued to meet all requirements and the bulk of the fuel used in the boilers was of unmarketable quality. Final recommendations were submitted for the new high pressure boiler plant. Capital work was somewhat larger than usual and consisted principally of new buildings, excavating plant, colliery equipment, both mechanical and electrical and railway line extensions. Shortage of skilled underground labour made the position rather difficult and a strike lasting three days was experienced in November as a result of which wages were increased. Coal prospecting in Johore continued throughout the year, at the end of which it was concluded that no commercial deposit existed and operations were terminated. In order to ascertain the extent to which workable coal, if any, occurs in the Batang Padang area, prospecting is in progress. THE BRICK WORKS As brick stocks were being depleted, the works resumed operations in January and have continued in operation throughout the year. Quite a good demand existed and some large contracts were executed, the most outstanding being the new building of the Rubber Research Institute which is an attractive example of faced brickwork. The production of the plywood works was fully five million square feet of plywood, the bulk of which was converted into rubber chests. The demand for plywood board improved, and the packers grade rubber chest became more popular. The pilot saw mill continued to meet the main requirements of the property and one or two parcels of lumber were sent to the home market. The construction of the railway to the timber area continued. The wood distillation plant continued in operation throughout most of the year, occasional short stoppages being made in retorting to enable stocks to be cleared. Progress in marketing the products is still slow, although the position is improving. Members of the staff have rendered excellent service and a good spirit of co-operation continued between all departments and individuals. The general health of the resident population continued to be exceedingly good, and apart from the strike already referred to, the morale of the labour force was generally very good. NEW CAPITAL ISSUE A circular letter to the shareholders states: During the early years of the depression considerable encroachment was made upon liquid reserves to carry through a capital expenditure programme which very materially assisted the company through the depression to the present improved conditions. Further capital expenditure is now required, and will be required from time to time, and rather than depend entirely upon profits to meet this, your directors have decided to proceed with a new capital issue The company’s authorised capital is $4,000,000 in 400,000 shares of $10 each, of which 318, 667 have been issued. Of these issued shares 61,162 were surrendered to the company and at present are not in circulation and do not rank for dividend, the actual ranking capital being therefore $2,575,050. The directors have passed a resolution for the sale to shareholders on the register at March 30, 1937, of 85,825 shares of $10 each, being at the rate of one share at par for every three shares held. The issued and circulating capital will then be increased to $2,433,400. The new shares will rank for dividend pari passu with the shares now in circulation as regards all dividends declared after July 1. 1937. Shareholders right to apply for their proportion of the shares to be issued for cash must be exercised on or before July 31, 1937, and the new shares paid for in full by that date by depositing with the Kuala Lumpur branch of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation the full amount of $10 per share. Any shares not applied for by July 31, 1937, will be disposed of by the directors on behalf of the company as they may think fit. No fractional certificates will be issued to shareholders but the directors will issue to trustees, for sale on behalf of those share holders entitled to fraction of a share, certificates in respect of the sum total of such fractions. Application forms for shareholders’ rights and letters of renunciation will be posted on March 30.

The Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 12 COLLIERIES' PROFIT UP. $596,375 For Last Year. WINDFALL FOR SHAREHOLDERS. SHAREHOLDERS in Malayan Collieries are to receive a windfall. A circular issued yesterday to members states that the directors have decided to issue new shares in the proportion of one new share for every three shares held on Mar. 30, at par Yesterday, transactions in this share were recorded at around $35, so the issue will mean a ‘bonus’ of around $20 allowing for a slight decline in the market value to compensate for the increased numbers of shares issued. Details of the offer are contained in page six today. Increased profit. ( short version of Directors report as above)(173 words)

The Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 6 MALAYAN COLLIERIES NEW SHARE ISSUE. On Bonus Terms. A CIRCULAR Issued to shareholder in Malayan Collieries Ltd. dated Mar. 22, states:— (as above)

The Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 10
 MR. W. J. WILLIAMS. Adviser On Electricity Leaving Malaya. Mr. W. J. Williams, Adviser on Electricity, Malay States and Mrs. Williams, who are shortly retiring from Malaya, were the guests of honour at a dinner given by the Selangor, Negri Sembilan and Pahang Section of the Engineering Association of Malaya, at the Hotel Majestic, Kuala Lumpur, on Saturday night. Mr. J. Drysdale who presided over the company of about eighty, members of the Association and their guests, proposed the health of Mr. and Mrs. Williams and referred to the valuable services Mr. Williams has rendered during his 28 years service in the East.

THE MALAY MAIL, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24, 1937, p.10. LABOUR TROUBLE SPREADS TO BATU ARANG Malayan Collieries Mine Stops Work. ALLEGED AGITATORS ARRESTED AT RANTAU Although the strike situation on estates in Selangor is reported to be “all quiet” unrest has spread to the Malayan Collieries mine at Batu Arang, where it is reported that 4,000 Chinese miners have stopped working. It is understood that about 2,000 Tamil labourers are also idle there. An official of the company told a “Malay Mail” reporter this morning that coal-winning operations were stopped last night and work on the mine was not resumed this morning. Miners held a mass meeting there last night, at which it is reported there was a minor demonstration which necessitated the immediate despatch of about 50 police from Central Police Station, Kuala Lumpur and Rawang to reinforce the local police. The strikers have not yet presented their demands in writing but we understand that they have asked the officials of the company to use their influence in securing the release of the strikers who were arrested in connection with the Cheras Road disorders on Sunday week. They have also verbally asked for an increase in wages. Agitators are reported to have been seen near Batu Arang yesterday afternoon. Sentries have been placed on guard at strategic points at the Malayan Collieries. The power house is still working and overseers and pumpmen are still on duty. The company are doing everything possible to cope with the demands of suppliers. ARRESTS AT RANTAU Our Seremban correspondent reporting at noon to-day said that everything was quiet in the Seremban area until eight o’clock last night, when the police received information that several Chinese estate kepalas had been assaulted and intimidated at Rantau. Parties of police were rushed out to that district and roads leading into it were patrolled. As a result of these police activities twelve men were arrested and brought into Seremban. It is understood that they will this afternoon be charged with intimidation. Mr. Wong Yik Tong J. P. is going out to Mantin this evening with the Protector of Chinese to address a large gathering of Chinese in preparation for to-morrow’s meeting with the U. P. A. M. MR JORDAN IN KUALA LUMPUR. Mr. A. B. Jordan, Secretary for Chinese Affairs, Singapore, had a long conversation with the Federal Secretary (Mr. C. D. Ahearne) yesterday when the strike situation was fully discussed. The Controller of Labour (Mr. C. Wilson) was seen in the Kajang district the whole of yesterday endeavouring to get the strikers to appoint their representatives to approach Government, who tomorrow afternoon will probably be in possession of a statement from the U. P. A. M., who are holding an emergency meeting earlier the same day. Concerning the incidents on the Cheras Road on Monday we are officially informed that the main body of police was halted some distance from the marchers. When it became clear that they would not retire by persuasion, thirty men in three sections were advanced to a point within ten yards of those instigating the obstruction. When this had no effect the police party was moved right up to the crowd. This action initiated the retreat. The demonstrators without any great delay promised to continue the movement if the police would desist from further pressure. The C. P. O. agreed. When satisfied that the intention of the demonstrators to obey his orders was genuine, the police sections employed were halted and, a few moments later, were returned to the main body, the greater portion of which was forthwith returned to Headquarters. The demonstrators at no time “cheered at the top of their voices, shouting ‘We have won.’ ” They departed slowly but surely, despondently, and in silence.

Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 11 IN F. M. S. STRIKE YESTERDAY All work ceased on Malayan Collieries’ mine. Two companies of the Malay Regiment have been sent to the Collieries. Two Chinese contractors were assaulted by labourers. All roads leading into Seremban were guarded by police. Volunteers in Kuala Lumpur and Klang were warned to be prepared. Two planters were given police protection A company chairman protested against outside interference. Negotiations were in abeyance pending the U.P.A.M. meeting tomorrow.

Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 12 4,000 MALAYAN COLLIERIES’ WORKERS IDLE MINING OPERATIONS CEASE THIS MORNING. Are Strikers Seeking Release Of 38 Kajang Men? SIGNS OF AGITATION DURING PAST WEEK (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Today. ALL coal-winning operations at the Batu Arang mine of Malayan Collieries Ltd., ceased this morning following a mass strike of 3,000 workers last night, who decided to strike. Signs of agitation among Chinese workers have been noticed during the past week and there are suggestions that outside influence has been brought to bear on the colliers. No demands have yet been received, but it is understood that these are in the course of preparation and that the principal one will be that the management use its influence to secure the release of 38 strikers, held in custody in Kuala Lumpur following rioting on the Kajang Road, on Mar. 13. At 10 o’clock last night the underground section of workers downed tools and this morning the entire work of the colliery is at a standstill, although the power-house, pumps and other essential services are operating. It is believed that the number of actual strikers at Batu Arang is about 2,000 and that other Chinese and Tamils, bringing the total of idle men to about 4,000, have been prevented from going to work through picketing. There are now about 50 police at Batu Arang, including 25 sent from Kuala Lumpur last night, but, apart from a brief demonstration by the strikers last night, there have been no incidents. No Shortage Likely. The stoppage of coal-winning operations is disturbing, as it comes at a time when Malaya’s coal consumption is high. An official of Malayan Collieries Ltd., told a Straits Times representative this morning:- “The company is doing everything possible to keep coal-consumers supplied” It is understood that, if local stocks should run short owing to the prolongation of the stoppage, steps will be taken to obtain supplies from other sources. Malay Soldiers To Guard Power House. The Straits Times learns officially in Singapore this morning that while the strike position among Chinese workers on Selangor rubber estates is easier, events at the Batu Arang mine of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., where 4000 Chinese and Tamil coolies are idle, have taken a more serious turn. Two companies of the Malay Regiment have been ordered to proceed from Port Dickson to Batu Arang to mount guard over the power-house and other machinery at the coal mine. Rubber estates coolies at Klang have returned to work and last night it was hoped that strikers on estates in the Kajang area would appoint delegates to conduct negotiations for a settlement.

The Straits Times, 24 March 1937, Page 12
 Malay Soldiers To Guard Power House. THE Straits Times learns officially in Singapore this morning that while the strike position among Chinese workers on Selangor rubber estates is easier, events at the Batu Arang mine of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., where 4000 Chinese and Tamil coolies are idle, have taken a more serious turn. Two companies of the Malay Regiment have been ordered to proceed from Port Dickson to Batu Arang to mount guard over the power-house and other machinery at the coal mine. Rubber estate coolies at Klang have returned to work last night and it is hoped that strikers on estates in the Kajang area would appoint delegates to conduct negotiations for a settlement.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 24 March 1937, Page 1
 STRIKE SPREADS TO BATU ARANG Demonstration At The Colliery (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Mar. 23. THE labour unrest has spread to the Batu Arang mines, operated by Malayan Collieries, Ltd., where 7,000 Chinese are employed. The strike was declared this afternoon and it is reported a group of men staged a demonstration but the exact number who are out on strike is unknown. Police reinforcements have been called from Rawang and 25 police have been sent from Kuala Lumpur tonight. So far no incidents are reported and Malayan Collieries officials have made no statements.

THE MALAY MAIL, THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 1937, p. 10. Nearly 30,000 Chinese Labourers On Strike ALL QUIET AT BATU ARANG Strikers Demand Release Of Arrested Kajang Men U.P.A.M. MEETING: CONFERENCE WITH HIGH COMMISSIONER THIS AFTERNOON It is estimated that approximately 30,000 Chinese labourers in Selangor and Negri Sembilan are now on strike, of whom nearly 25,000 are employed on rubber estates. The situation is reported to be quiet at the Malayan Collieries mine at Batu Arang, where four thousand Chinese miners stopped work yesterday and where 200 men from the Malay Regiment have been sent to reinforce a hundred police there. No work is in progress at the mine. The Batu Arang strikers have presented 23 demands and it is apparent from these demands and those which have been made by strikers elsewhere that the release of the men who were arrested during the disorders on the Cheras Road on Sunday week is one of their main objectives. These men appeared in the police court on an amended charge this morning and were remanded until Tuesday. Four arrests were also made during a police raid on Hawthornden Estate yesterday. High Commissioner Arrives This morning the U.P.A.M. met in Kuala Lumpur and it is expected that later to-day representatives of the U.P.A.M. will discuss the situation with the High Commissioner. Sir Shenton Thomas arrived in Kuala Lumpur from Seremban yesterday and lost no time in meeting the Federal Secretary (Mr. C. D. Ahearne) to discuss the situation. Quiet at Batu Arang The following statement was issued to the MALAY MAIL this morning by an official of the Malayan Collieries, Ltd.: “The strike at Batu Arang continues and no despatches of coal were possible yesterday and it is unlikely that any will be effected today. “All parts of the mine are inoperative and two companies of the Malay Regiment are quartered there, in case of an emergency. “Twenty-three demands have been presented by the strikers and the principal one is that the company uses its influence to obtain the release of the strikers arrested in the Kajang disturbance on Sunday week. “The strike at Batu Arang was induced by agitators who are believed to have come from Kajang. “One or two incidents, such as the blocking of roadways and interference with mine plant, took place, but the general position is quiet. _____________________________________________________________________ U.P.A.M. Deputation To Government MEETING THIS AFTERNOON Representatives of the U.P.A.M. will discuss the present strike situation with senior Government officers at 2.30 this afternoon. Afterwards another meeting of delegates of the U.P.A.M. will be held. _____________________________________________________________________ “The majority of the Batu Arang workers would have continued working had they been allowed to do so.” Yesterday evening two companies of the Malay Regiment (about 200 N. C. O.’s (SECTION of M.M. MISSING) Kepala Captured It is reported that a kepala was captured yesterday by the strikers and imprisoned in one of the kongsis. Up till one o’clock this morning troops and police had been unable to discover where the kepala was being held prisoner. When our representative left the mine in the early hours of this morning “ all was quiet”, but the strikers had barricaded the main exit from the village with huge timbers and it was necessary to make detour in order to leave the mine. Photograph of Dato Wong Yick Tong. Captioned: “Dato Wong Yick Tong, The Grand Old Man of Seremban, now in his 79th year, who is using his influence to effect a settlement of the labour troubles. He has just returned from four months holiday in Canton.

The Singapore Free Press. 25 March 1937, Page 1 BATU ARANG AN ARMED CAMP Colliery Guarded By 200 Men Of The Malay Regiment GOVERNMENT TAKE SERIOUS VIEW ROAD BARRICADED BY STRIKERS AFTER THE POLICE LEAVE Seizure Of Kepala The only Violence (From Our Own Correspondent) Batu Arang Mar. 24. Batu Arang is an armed camp tonight, 200 men of the Malay Regiment, headed by six European officers and four warrant officers, and 50 police being on guard to deal with the strike among 6,000 strikers on the Malayan Collieries coalfield. THE FREE PRESS UNDERSTANDS THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS TAKING A SERIOUS VIEW OF THE SITUATION AS THE STRIKERS’ ACTION IS INTERPRETED AS AM EFFORT TO EMBARRASS THE GOVERNMENT BY INTERFEREING WITH THE COUNTRY’S COAL SUPPLIES, AN ACTION WHICH AT THE SAME TIME JEOPARDISES THE SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY AND THE RUNNING OF THE RAILWAYS. Our Kuala Lumpur correspondent, who motored to the coalfield tonight, later found himself unable to leave, the strikers having barricaded the road leading to the colliery at a late hour, necessitating an all-night stay in the power house. So far there has been no violence with the exception of the seizure of one of the kepalas whose whereabouts were kept secret by the strikers. Various gangs and strikers armed with crowbars have been seen moving about the coalfield and there has been much strenuous picketing but so far there has been no attempt to interfere with the power house, possibly because it supplies all the essential services for the strikers themselves. Work At Standstill. Work is at a complete standstill, with the exception of the essential services, and even the subsidiary branches of the colliery, such as the manufacture of Malaply, have been closed down, due to intimidation by the strikers. The Malay Regiment arrived this evening in a convoy of lorries from Port Dickson, after which the main body of police, in charge of the C.P.O., Mr. A. H. Dickinson, left for Kuala Lumpur, leaving the Malay Regiment in complete charge, assisted by the Sikh guard at the power house.

The Malay Regiment are quartered in the Asiatic Club. It was after the departure of the police at 9.30 p.m. that the road to Kuala Lumpur was barricaded with heavy timbers by the strikers, this preventing the departure of any motor traffic from the colliery. So far the strikers have not presented any demands but it is understood that they are actively in sympathy with the 38 men still held in custody in Kuala Lumpur following the Kajang riots. All coal-winning operations at the Batu Arang mine of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., ceased this morning following a mass meeting of 3,000 workers last night, who decided to strike. Signs of agitation among Chinese workers have been noticed during the past week and there are suggestions that outside influence has been brought to bear on the coolies. Tools Downed At 10 o’clock last night the underground section of workers downed tools and this morning the entire work of the colliery is at a standstill, although the powerhouse, underground pumps and other essential services are operating. It is believed that the number of actual strikers at Batu Arang is about 2,000 and that other Chinese and Tamils, bringing the total of idle men up to about 4,000, have been prevented from going to work through picketing. There are now about 50 police at Batu Arang, including 25 sent from Kuala Lumpur last night, but, apart from a brief demonstration by the strikers last night, there has been no incidents. The stoppage of coal-winning operations is disturbing, as it comes at a time when Malaya’s coal consumption is high. An official of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., told a Free Press representative this morning “The Company is doing everything possible to keep coal-consumers supplied” It is understood that if local stocks should run short owing to the prolongation of the stoppage, steps will be taken to obtain supplies from other sources.

The Straits Times, 25 March 1937, Page 14 HIS EXCELLENCY TO DISCUSS STRIKE IN KUALA LUMPUR. UNEXPECTED ARRIVAL IN FEDERAL CAPITAL. Serious View Taken Of Batu Arang Situation. MALAY SOLDIERS ON GUARD AT COLLIERY PLANT. (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Today. His Excellency the High Commissioner (Sir Shelton Thomas), who arrived unexpectedly in the Federal Capital by the mail train this morning, will, the Straits Times is informed, discuss the strike situation with officers of the F.M.S. Government, but will take no part in, nor will he attend, the meeting of the United Planting Association of Malaya this afternoon. It is understood that the Government is taking a serious view of the situation at Batu Arang as the ( rest as above in Singapore Free Press)

The Straits Times, 25 March 1937, Page 13
 F.M.S. STRIKE- LATEST. "THE strike at the Batu Arang coalmine was induced by agents from Kajang, centre of the rubber estate strikes.” There has been some interference with plant at the mine but no damage done. "Picketers have prevented many of the Batu Arang coolies from working.” Those are points from an official statement issued by Malayan Collieries and telephoned at noon by the Straits Times Kuala Lumpur Correspondent. The charges against some of the arrested Kajang coolies which are the focal point of all the strikers were reduced this morning from “overawing by show of criminal force” to “trespass with intent to commit an offence”. Hearing of the charges was postponed until March 30. All accused claim trial. The Batu Arang strikers are demanding the release of the arrested men.

The Singapore Free Press 26 March 1937, Page 8 The Strike Situation For many months now Malaya has been experiencing a series of strikes, the workers involved covering practically every phase of activity, from Government works and Municipal services down to shoemakers, but none have assumed such serious proportions as the present outbreak in Selangor. Even in this case, however, there has been no simultaneous action and, being spread over some time, it is difficult fully to appreciate the cumulative effect. A resume of the development of the strikes, however, would appear to show that the reassuring communiqué issued from the Colonial Secretary’s office a few days ago did not accurately reflect the position, though it is not intended to imply thereby that Government acted to deceive, but that they were inclined to under-estimate the seriousness of the situation. The number of strikers, including those in the Negri, is climbing towards the 20,000 mark, 44 estates are idle, roads have been barricaded, estate managers threatened and detectives and others carried off. These acts have provoked counter-action to such an extent that to most people martial law could scarcely mean much more. To use the common phrase, “the troops have been called out” and 200 men of the Malay Regiment are guarding the Malayan Collieries coalfield at Batu Arang. Others have been sent to Negri Sembilan, the Federal capital police are in a state of emergency and are going armed, several estate manager’s homes are under armed guard, the volunteers at Kuala Lumpur and Klang have been warned to hold themselves in readiness, while the High Commissioner suddenly decides that he is needed on the spot and hurriedly leaves Singapore by the night mail train for Kuala Lumpur. All this would appear to indicate that the position is much more serious than is generally presumed. We are now told that Government takes a serious view, but that is purely as a result of the colliers’ strike, which is construed as an attempt to embarrass the Government by cutting off coal supplies and therefore jeopardising the electricity supplies and running of the railways. Hitherto it has been left to the Controller of Labour and the Chinese Protectorate to attempt to reach a settlement and it is possible that if a serious view had been taken earlier of what was a serious situation, the occurrence in which detectives fired on a crowd of demonstrators and injured two might not have arisen. In most cases that ubiquitous person, the agitator, is blamed for the disturbances, and there can be no doubt that agitators have been active. What is not quite so certain, however, is whether the results they have achieved have been entirely due to their fomentation, or have in part been caused by a desire by the workers to see what they consider bad conditions improved and wage rates raised to what they feel would be more in keeping with the earnings of the industry in which they work. That there has also been intimidation will not be disputed, but the number of unwilling strikers cannot be very large and the suggestion in certain quarters that threequarters of the striking coolies in the Negri would return to work if they could is patently absurd. A militant minority may with difficulty rule a passive majority, but the minority in the Negri is neither so militant, nor the majority so passive. Semi-illiterate or completely illiterate the strikers may be in the main; nevertheless they are human beings with the normal human feelings and not, as they are so frequently regarded, just so many hours of work a day. Their illiteracy may have made them somewhat easy to lead and ready believers of distorted facts, but underlying their action is a real sense of grievance. Malaya is a land which most other countries could envy. Richly endowed by nature, happily situated in the world in spite of its everlasting heat, no crushing burden of public debt and taxes, and probably one of the highest employment ratios in the world, yet a large number of workers in the key industries strike. With so many things apparently in their favour, is it likely that they have taken such action for a mere whim, or in a vainglorious effort to demonstrate the power of labour? If labour were allowed to organise in this country the second alternative might be correct, but since it is not permitted to do so, the suggestion that they have a genuine grievance must be considered. It is, of course, as a result of the suppression of any organisation of labour that what, under normal circumstances, would be perfectly respectable labour leaders, are now designated agitators or communists. Labour’s only weapon is the strike, a fact that is overlooked by many of those who can safely stand aside and to whom it means a disruption of the normal. It is such people who have been criticising the police for behaving with restraint, whereas the police have merely been treating the strikers as they deserved, though they have been lenient on one or two occasions when the strikers, without doing any harm, have committed a technical breach of the law. Having awakened to the seriousness of the situation, however, it is to be hoped that Government will make every possible action to arrive as soon as possible at a peaceful and equitable settlement. Strikes are usually the final resort of labour since, though they cause losses to employers they also cause loss to the strikers and even jeopardise their future employment. Strikes are also indirectly harmful to the whole community, to the rest of labour if they fail and to the country in general as a result of the fall in production. With so many interests to consider, Government’s task of striking a nice balance will be by no means simple, but so long as none are overlooked, the result, while probably pleasing no section completely should prove satisfactory to all.

 

THE MALAY MAIL, SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 1937 page 10 EVILS OF THE CONTRACTING SYSTEM Chief Cause Of Malaya’s Labour Troubles “EMPLOYERS MUST PUT THEIR HOUSE IN ORDER” SAYS MR. KIA PENG The labour unrest in Selangor was referred to by Mr. Choo Kia Peng presiding at the meeting of the Selangor Miners’ Association in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. Having remarked that the labourers naturally expect to share in the prosperity of their employers, he expressed regret that in Malaya there is no Conciliatory Board constituted in such a manner as to give full confidence both to employers and employed. Commenting on the system whereby “we seem to live under the shelter of contractors” Mr. Kia Peng said he was inclined to think they were taking things too lightly. “If you will trace most of the labour troubles in Malaya you will find that more often than not the system of contractors and sub-contractors is the chief cause of mis-understanding between employers and employed. There is little personal contact between employers and individual employees and I have no hesitation in saying that in the past we have depended too much on our contractors as our media.” Mr. Choo Pia Keng, in presenting the annual report and statement of accounts of the association said: The annual report and statement of accounts for the year 1936 have been sent to you for some time, and with your permission we will take them as read. TIN CONTROL By far the most important step concerning the destiny of the tin industry was the signing of the International Agreement for a further period of five years from 1937. There were many anxious moments in 1936, and the issue of its continuance was in doubt up to the last moment. Fortunately for the industry, common sense among the signatory countries prevailed in the end, and I would not hesitate to commend the conciliatory and neighbourly attitude of the High Authorities at Bangkok, who had not only to face various internal difficulties consequent on a new regime, but also adverse comments from our side when there was a deadlock in the negotiations. We were inclined to put the blame entirely on them instead of sharing the responsibility for misunderstanding. Since we are now protected for five years, I hope the miners will not forget the bitter lessons of uncontrolled production. Sudden retrospective increases of our quota during the year were not an easy problem for the miners to handle, but thanks to normal labour conditions and the facilities for transfer of quotas provided by the Tin Restriction Enactment, our situation was made easier to a great extent. In consequence, Malaya has been able to produce the international quota allotted to it in spite of such fluctuations. This condition can only prevail in countries like Malaya where the capacity for production far exceeds the percentage of the international quota allotted to us. LABOUR SHORTAGE Towards the latter end of the year, however, owing to the demand for labour from the rubber industry, there was a distinct shortage of labour for mines, but not to such an extent as to cause serious uneasiness. If the prosperity of our two main industries continues more permanently, it would be advisable for the authorities to increase our monthly quota of Chinese immigrants, or even better still to suspend operation of immigrant quota for a time. As the position of the mines has now improved as the result of a better price for tin, and more liberal quota releases, the labourers naturally expect to share in the prosperity of their employers. Unfortunately in Malaya we have no Conciliatory Board constituted in such a manner as to give full confidence both to employers and employees. Employers hesitate to move in the absence of a lead and employees do not know how to move at all except by downing tools. This condition is not conducive to goodwill and harmony, and unless a bold step is taken by the authorities in conjunction with the employers to appoint a properly constituted body, whose business would be too look after the interests of the country, the employers and employees, there will be periodical unrest, and even minor disturbances from time to time. THE CONTRACTING SYSTEM I am inclined to think they we are taking things too lightly. In the case of Indian labour we know that the Labour office is there to see us through in time of labour difficulties. In the case of mining labourers, mostly Chinese, we seem to live under the shelter of contractors. If you will trace most of the labour troubles in Malaya you will find that more often than not the system of contractors and sub-contractors is the chief cause (Section of MM missing here) except querying “Is this correct?” The behaviour of our labourers in the past has always been what may be termed “moderate.” I am afraid however, that there is little personal contact between the employers and individual employees, and I have no hesitation in saying that in the past we have depended too much on our contractors as our media. Had it been otherwise, ninety per cent. of the demands of the recent strikers would not have been made. We also depend too much on the Chinese Protectorate and the Police and fail to realise that the work of the Chinese Protectorate, under modern conditions, covers such a large field of our social welfare, that we are asking or expecting too much from these hardworking officials. LABOURERS TIMIDITY There is in addition the timidity of the Chinese labourers to approach officials when they have grievances: that must be taken into account as well. I am, therefore, strongly of the opinion that the sooner we employers—and in this category I include the Government as well—devise some means to put our house in order, the better. Before I conclude I would like to say a few words in regard to those officials who handled our labour situation at the time of the strikes a few months ago. The officials of the Chinese Protectorate, the Mines and the Police Department acted with remarkable ability. They were as cool as the wintry weather in handling the situation, yet warm in their desire to assist the employers and the employees, and I believe that both the miners and employees realise this. (Summary: votes of thanks, annual report, elections of officers, discussion on shortage of labour as contributory reason for strikes, increase in quota by Government did not solve problem, shipping companies and lodging houses in China charging high rates, resolution requesting Government to suspend operation of immigration quota to allow influx of labourers.)

THE MALAY MAIL, SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 1937, p. 10. Police Forced to Fire On Batu Arang Mob ONE STRIKER KILLED, FOUR WOUNDED. Sixty-three Arrests made Early This Morning. MASS DEMONSTRATION BROKEN UP AT MANTIN One striker was killed, one badly wounded and three others wounded less seriously in a clash between strikers and a police detachment from Kuala Lumpur at Batu Arang this morning. Developments during the previous 24 hours had indicated the probability of disorders at the Malayan Collieries mine to-day and to meet this danger a party of police, 250 strong, was despatched to Batu Arang early this morning. As they arrived at Batu Arang the police were met by a large mob of labourers, armed with iron crowbars, axes, poles and other dangerous weapons. The mob made an immediate rush at the police, who were compelled to fire nine shots, as a result of which one striker was killed, one badly wounded, and three others wounded, less seriously. A number of the police were injured but none of them seriously. Sixty-three arrests were made. Back to Work The immediate effect of this show of force on the part of the authorities seems to have been beneficial. We are officially informed that the “safety men” (the men whose task it is to guard against fire and flood) are back at work in the mine, that the underground overseers are also working, and there is a hope that quite a considerable body of the employees may return to work to-day or to-morrow. It is stated that the mob attempted to prevent the police, under the C. P. O, (Mr. A. H. Dickinson) from entering the mine. The police had arrived on the mine property to carry out a surprise raid on the kongsi’s headquarters. When they reached the entrance to the mine at about 5 a.m. they encountered a large mob of truculent strikers who attacked them. After the firing the mob immediately dispersed. The police party remained on the mine and attempted to sort out the disaffected miners. The position at the time of going to press is reported to be “all quiet.” It is officially stated that the Malay Regiment did not take part in the fighting but stood by to give moral support. Company’s Ultimatum In an official statement issued at 9.15 a.m. to-day the Malayan Collieries state: “The position has taken a turn for the better and it is expected that work will be resumed, possibly to-day. The mine kongsis, where various strikers meetings have been held, were raided by the police and military between 4 and 5 a.m. and 30 arrests were made. During the encounter one striker was killed and two were injured. All kongsis have been thoroughly combed and the occupants identified. All have been given an opportunity to return to work or leave the mine property.” This ultimatum was issued about 8 o’clock this morning. The terms offered by the Malayan Collieries have been posted in the various kongsis and we are officially informed that there is at the moment ground for hoping that the labour force will return to work soon. Fifty N. C. O’s and men of the Malay Regiment were conveyed to the Collieries yesterday afternoon to supplement the forces already there consisting of 200 men of the Malay Regiment and 250 police. 120 Under Arrest Surprise raids were also carried out on Thursday afternoon and yesterday at Kajang and Sungei Chush and, together with the arrests made at Batu Arang during the early hours of this morning, more than 120 men are now in police custody. Thirteen officers and three hundred N. C. O’s and men of the 2nd Battalion 21st PunjabRegiment, stationed at Taiping, arrived in Kuala Lumpur by train this morning and are stationed at the Police Depot in case of emergency.

The Straits Times, 27 March 1937, Page 11 Striker Killed in Batu Arang Clash. One striker was killed and several injured in a serious fight last night between police and pickets at the Batu Arang coal mine near Kuala Lumpur. The clash occurred when police who were going to raid the strikers’ headquarters were met by pickets. Thirty-three strikers were arrested. The strikers had previously refused the counter-offers of the Malayan Collieries in reply to the strikers’ demands.

The Straits Times, 27 March 1937, Page 12 PUNJABI TROOPS SENT TO MALAYAN COALFIELD. Situation Reported Worse. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Taiping, Today. FOLLOWING serious developments in the strike situation at the mine of Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang, near Kuala Lumpur, two companies of the 1st Battalion, 2nd Punjab Regiment, with kit, tents, rations and arms, including eight Lewis machine guns, left the Taiping barracks at midnight by a special troop train for Batu Arang. The 280 Indian soldiers and non-commissioned officers are under the command of Major G. C. Ballentine, second-in-command of the battalion, who has with him three other officers- Major A.W.S. Mallaby, 2nd Lieut. R. L. Dawe and 2nd Lieut. Whittingham. The railway was a hive of activity as the train was being loaded with kit and other equipment under the charge of Lieut. R.A.L.P. Hooper and 2nd Lieut. Mansel-Edwards. The officer Commanding, Lt. –Col. H. T. Craig was at the station to see the train off. (Next section covers tappers on strike on Negri Sembilan estates and attempts at negotiations.) (662 words)

The Straits Times, 28 March 1937, Page 1 6,000 BATU ARANG COLLIERS BACK AT WORK Move Follows Dawn Clash With Armed Police ONE KILLED, 2 HURT AND 62, ARRESTED Over 500 Regular Troops On Guard At Mine (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Saturday. FOLLOWING a clash at dawn between strikers and police, in which one was killed, two injured and 62 arrests were made, the strike of 6.000 men in the Malayan coalfield at Batu Arang was settled this afternoon, when the majority of workers returned to their posts. Production of coal will begin again this evening and it is expected that by tomorrow the situation will be normal, the wages of all workers on the mine having been increased by 10 per cent. After the police raid this morning the management issued an ultimatum to the men to return to work or leave the property and the police forces, backed by 250 men of the Malay Regiment, were reinforced by two companies of the Punjabi Regiment from Taiping. One hundred police have now left Batu Arang and the military are expected to leave on Sunday. EYE-WITNESS STORY The 62 prisoners who were taken in the battle between the strikers and the police have arrived in the Federal Capital, 34 being in the Campbell Road Police station and 30 in Pudo gaol. The battle was like the breaking of thunderclouds which had been gathering fast and it was obvious that the strikers had taken the gentleness of the police for weakness. Their attitude now is conciliatory and the position is more reassuring. A return to work is believed to be imminent and the “safety men”—those operating the essential services in the power-house and the pumps for underground workings—are back at their posts. COMPLETE DEADLOCK. Yesterday the position appeared to be hopeless and there was a complete deadlock in the negotiations between the management and the workers. When the management published its terms at 10 a.m. yesterday, giving considerable concessions, including wage increases to workers, the men declared that they would reply at 6 p.m. Their reply was a complete non-acceptance of the terms and their attitude became threatening. POLICE PLAN RAID The police—225 under the C. P. O., Mr. A. H. Dickinson—then planned a raid on the strike headquarters for dawn today with the military forces—A and B companies of the Malay Regiment and half of D company, totalling 250 men under the command of Capt. J. R. G. Andre and Capt. F. W. Young, M. B. E.—in support. The raid was to be a surprise for the disaffected men and at three in the morning the police left Kuala Lumpur in lorries for this purpose. The following eye-witness account of the battle was given to a Sunday Times representative: “As the police party, under Mr. Dickinson, arrived at the main approach to the mines at 4 a.m., a truculent mob of strikers armed with axes, poles and crowbars challenged their entry. “The mob was estimated to number nearly one thousand and, as the police marched forward, the mob attacked them, making use of weapons. POLICE RETALIATED “The police retaliated with their batons, but as the fight took a more serious turn, the police opened fire with their rifles. “Nine shots rang out in the night and one striker dropped dead, another fell seriously wounded and three more strikers were injured.” The police suffered no casualties and quickly overcame the mob, a portion of which turned and fled, but 33 were captured and placed under arrest. The police party then marched on and raided strike headquarters in a kongsi in an attempt to sort out the disaffected miners and 30 further arrests were made there. TROOPS AT BATU ARANG The seriousness of the strike situation in the Malayan coalfield yesterday morning may be gauged from the fact that the F. M. S. Government concentrated over 800 men there to preserve law and order. F. M. S. Police……….225 Malay Regiment……...250 Punjabi Regiment…….330 ULTIMATUM ISSUED The police remained on the mine and at 8 a. m. the management issued their ultimatum to the strikers, giving them an opportunity to return to work or leave the property. The “safety men” immediately returned to work followed by the overseers and it is expected that a number of men in the open-cast mines and underground working will return before the day is out. An official statement issued by Malayan Collieries at one o’clock today says: “We are hoping to resume coal dispatches tomorrow.” SITUATION BETTER The general situation in the strike areas of Selangor and Negri Sembilan at noon today was described as quiet and an indication came though from Mantin that Negri rubber tappers may go back to work tomorrow. Thirteen suspected picketers were arrested in a raid at Kajang on Thursday evening and a further 24 were arrested in a raid at Sungei Chuah, near Kajang, yesterday at noon when a pile of documents and banners was seized in houses. NEGRI STRIKE EASIER The Negri strike situation is easier and a large body of squatter tappers in the Mantin-Labu area have informed the Protectorate of the wish to return to work tomorrow morning and have requested police protection which is being given telegraphs the Seremban correspondent of the Sunday Times.

THE MALAY MAIL, MONDAY, MARCH 29, 1937, p 10. Chinese Strikers Returning To Work BATU ARANG MINE WORKING AT FULL CAPACITY Malay Regiment Detachment Withdrawn STRIKE ON RUBBER ESTATES COLLAPSING There was a marked improvement in the strike situation at the Malayan Collieries. Batu Arang and the affected rubber estate areas, during the week-end. It is officially announced this morning that all the miners remaining in the Malayan Collieries mine have returned to work and conditions are gradually returning to normal, while the position with regard to rubber estates in Selangor and Negri Sembilan is most reassuring. Coolies employed on Sungei Rinching and Sengkang Estates have resumed work and it is felt that further resumption will take place in Negri Sembilan and Selangor in the next few days. Police carried out a series of surprise raids on kongsis at Batu Arang yesterday and made further arrests while a large force raided a mine at Sungei Besi during the early hours of this morning and arrested four agitators. The Commissioner of Police (Mr. C. H. Sansom) told a “Malay Mail” representative this morning that by 2 p.m. yesterday partial resumption of work had been affected at Batu Arang and by evening the mine was working at full capacity. “The position was so reassuring,” the Police Commissioner said “that it was found possible to withdraw 100 men of the Malay Regiment at 4 a.m. These are on their way back to Port Dickson.” Questioned about the rumours of agitation on mines in the Sungei Besi area the Commissioner said that all mines in Sungei Besi are working normally, but four arrests were made there during the night by the Director of Criminal Intelligence (Mr. C. R. Morrish.) An official of the Malayan Collieries said that the strikers returned to work unconditionally and afterwards they were given a ten per cent. increase. “Winning of coal commenced at 8 a.m. and despatches were made throughout the whole of the day,” he said. Setapak Estates Raided A force of two hundred police, supported by about a hundred men of the Punjab Regiment, carried out a surprise raid on the coolie lines at Wardieburn and Hawthornden Estates at Setapak at mid-day to-day. The police arrived in a convoy of lorries and dismounted about a mile from the coolie lines. They broke up into sections and approached the coolie lines from different directions, while the troops, armed with rifles, stood by. There were no signs of disorder. Our Seremban correspondent reports that official information was given at noon yesterday that one hundred tappers out of 200 on Sengkang Estate had resumed work, and that all Chinese labour on Labu estate and one kongsi on Tanah Merah Estate also turned out for work yesterday. Mr. W. A. Gutsell of Mambau Estate informed the Police Department yesterday morning that 82 out of a total of 86 Chinese tappers—4 coolies being sick—had returned to work. Negri Sembilan Arrests All other areas in Negri Sembilan are reported as being quiet. The Chief Police Officer and a party of police proceeded to Pelas on Saturday night, and raided a number of kongsis—which, it was stated, were harbouring a number of Hylam agitators. They arrested one Hylam and found in his possession certain documents. The O. C. detectives also arrested a Hylam, said to be one of the principal leaders of the Kajang strikers, while other members of the detective force arrested three others said to be agitators, one of them a Hakka Chinese who comes from the Dangi-Kuala Pilah district. The Protector of Chinese placed before Mr. Farquarson (chairman of the Negri Sembilan P. A.) yesterday morning, the demands submitted to the Protector by the “moderates” among the strikers, who are said to represent 23 kongsis employing about 2.500 tappers, and later, through Mr. Farquarson, the planters of Negri Sembilan gave their reply to these demands. The reply was printed and is being distributed to all Chinese estate kongsis in Negri Sembilan. The reply will also be posted up in all kongsis this morning, so that all tappers may clearly understand that this is the final decision of the Negri Sembilan planters. Up to the time of writing the police in Negri Sembilan have under arrest 28 strikers, 17 of whom have already appeared in court. The remainder will appear before the magistrates after the Easter holidays.

The Singapore Free Press 29th March 1937 Page 1 Workers Returning at Batu Arang FURTHER ARRESTS (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Mar. 28. While a steadily rising number of miners are returning to work on the Batu Arang coalfield, the police are carrying out surprise raids on the kongsis which were used as headquarters by strikers to effect a clean-up of the disaffected elements. Several arrests were made today. The police force on the mines still numbers 275 and A. and B. Companies and half D. Company of the Malay Regiment are also there. Return To Normal The majority of the men are now back at work and the first dispatch of coal took place at 8 a.m. this morning and conditions are returning to normal. Malayan Collieries Ltd. state that their stocks have not entirely run out during the strike, though very nearly so. Conditions otherwise are quiet in Selangor and no further incidents have been reported in Selangor. The 330 men of the Punjabi Regiment are still in Kuala Lumpur. The general feeling is that the whole affair is gradually settling. Clash at Dawn A message on Saturday stated that following a clash at dawn between strikers and police, in which one was killed, two were injured and 62 arrests were made, the strike of 6, 000 men in the Malayan coalfield at Batu Arang was settled in the afternoon, when the majority of workers returned to their posts. After a police raid at dawn, the management had issued an ultimatum to the men to return to work or leave the property.

The Singapore Free Press 30 March 1937, Page 3 INCREASED WAGES FOR BATU ARANG STRIKERS Trouble Now Ended? COLLIERIES’ CHAIRMAN INTERVIEWED CONDITIONS at Malayan Collieries’ mine at Batu Arang, Selangor, when a special correspondent of the Free Press visited the mine on Saturday afternoon were not normal but they were considerable more settled than they had been for several days past. In an exclusive interview, Mr. H. H. Robbins, chairman of the company, said that the trouble had been overcome and that most of the coolies would be back at work within a day or so. “I am extremely satisfied with the response that has been made to our demand that the coolies either start work or leave the property” said Mr. Robbins, “as yesterday at this time the situation looked very black. “The strong action taken by the police this morning when they raided several kongsis, has had a salutary effect and although there were casualties they could not be avoided. “I hope,” he continued, “That production will commence tomorrow (Sunday), and that normal conditions will be restored within a few days. 10 Per Cent. Rise Since the coolies have returned to work, the company is posting notices this afternoon is posting houses, to the effect that there will be an increase in wages of 10 per cent.and the increase will be effective forthwith.” “What do you think will be the effect of this action?” I asked when complimenting Mr. Robbins on this decision. “I think it ought to go a long way to restoring those conditions which we hope for—a quiet and contented force that will enable our production to be maintained with regularity,” he answered. Commenting on the strikers’ organisation, Mr. Robbins said it was amazing how quickly work had stopped, showing that the stoppage had been arranged with considerable ingenuity. “We had not heard a whisper of anything out of the ordinary before the thing happened and we have no doubt that outside influences were at work. It is difficult, with a labour force of the size we have here, not to hear whisperings of discontent, whether real or imaginary” added Mr. Robbins, “but we have also no doubt that there must have been considerable secret propaganda. Questioned on the point of a possible recurrence of the trouble, Mr. Robbins said he felt quite easy in his own mind that the trouble had ended and that he did not anticipate any further interruptions. Contentment Essential “The management,” he explained, “is always prepared to listen to arguments and our employees need have no fear that their position is not appreciated. We realise the importance of contentment in an organisation of this size but it is necessary for very full consideration to be given to questions before arriving at decisions.” “I hope” said Mr. Robbins, in conclusion, “that when normal conditions are restored it will be possible for the many organisations that depend on us for fuel, to say that not one hour of running time has been lost through this unfortunate occurrence.”

Photograph. MARCHING ORDER. Soldiers of the Malaya regiment are doing guard duty at Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang, Selangor, where strikers threatened to become troublesome. This picture shows two ‘Ahmats’ with their full equipment.

THE MALAY MAIL, TUESDAY MARCH 30, 1937, page 10. Rubber Estate Strike Collapsing. CHINESE TAPPERS BACK AT WORK IN NEGRI SEMBILAN Normal Conditions At Batu Arang: Malay Regiment Withdrawn. MALAYAN COLLIERIES TO ABOLISH CONTRACTING SYSTEM. The remaining detachments of the Malay Regiment have been withdrawn from the Malayan Collieries mine at Batu Arang, where the situation is now officially described as normal. About 100 police, however, are being retained in case of any emergency. (Summary: rubber estates position improving.. “The Malay Mail understands that the officials at the Malayan Collieries hope to gradually abolish the contracting system and establish a labour department of their own with every employee registered.”.. 43 arrested on Hawthornden Estate.. The Commissioner of Police told a Malay Mail representative this morning that as the position at Batu Arang had returned to normal the rest of the Malay regiment had been withdrawn. “ These are travelling by train and will pass through Kuala Lumpur at 1 p.m. today” the Commissioner of Police said. “Patrols are being maintained by the Punjab Regiment in Kajang and the Martin area” .. also quiet in Negri Sembilan, Perak and Pahang. Kajang strikers in Court, charged with unlawful assembly. Details of case..) (REMEDIES FOR LABOUR UNREST MALAYAN COLLIERIES’ CHAIRMAN’S VIEWS (extract from M.C. A.G.M. see M.M. of Wed. March 31 1937.)

The Straits Times, 30 March 1937, Page 10 The Straits Times SINGAPORE, TUESDAY, MAR. 30, 1937. (Editorial) POLICE, PLANTERS AND STRIKERS. Since yesterday's leading article on Malayan labour unrest was written, the Straits Times has received a considerable amount of additional information from persons in touch with the strike situation. Several estate managers have written to this newspaper, and a special correspondent who toured the strike areas during the Easter holidays has contributed to the article published yesterday. *(Summary: not all agree on action to be taken, sympathy towards tappers predominant, (not towards Malayan Collieries labour force), not enough understanding of when strikes are legal and cannot be interfered with by police, ignorance of correct police attitude, which explains why there are complaints against police policy of using persuasion, 20,00 to 30,000 tappers on strike, commendably few instances of disorder. Intimidation on some estates but in the main strikers have not gone beyond perfectly legal act of downing tools. Processions do not imply violence. Police using diplomacy in dealing with tappers, general opinion that strikers have genuine grievances, tappers have a case, police job to hold the ring while settlement is made. Police job harder if settlement delayed. UPAM can settle in next 7 days. Planters have overlooked wages, as happened in tin mines. Tappers have no labour dept to champion them and wages were 50 cents a day while rubber price was rising. Blames lies with UPA in being hesitant in dealing with Tamil wages and failing to give lead to individual managers on Chinese rates of pay. Committee needs to be set up to watch relation between profits and wages. Concessions to tappers delayed too long, they made sacrifices during depression, larger share of current prosperity should be passed on to them, compromise of sliding scale of wages moving upwards and downwards with rubber price.)(1014 words) * Previous day's editorial had called for a comprehensive review into labour questions and fair wages)

THE MALAY MAIL, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 1937, p. 10 & 11 & part of Robbin’s speech in Malay Mail Tuesday, March 30, 1937 p.10, under the Headline: “Remedies for Labour Unrest. Malayan Collieries’ Chairman’s Views, and The Straits Times, 31 March 1937, Page 7, under title: REARMAMENT BENEFITS TO MALAYA. High Tin Prices Reflected In Malayan Collieries' Profits. CHINESE IMMIGRATION SYSTEM CRITICISED, The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 31 March 1937, Page 9, and The Straits Times, 1 April 1937, Page 9 PROPOSAL TO SPLIT SHARES. MALAYAN COLLIERIES MEETING. SHAREHOLDER ON LABOUR TROUBLES. FAULTS IN CHINESE IMMIGRATION QUOTA SYSTEM Compares Badly With Indian Arrangement MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD. ANNUAL MEETING. AGM Mentioned in The Straits Times, 31 March 1937, Page 11,
Labour Problems In Malaya. TRAFFICKING IN CHINESE LABOURERS Iniquitous Practice In Coast Ports of China WHY MALAYAN COLLIERIES ARE SHORT OF UNDERGROUND WORKERS Criticism Of The Shipping Companies The system of immigration of Chinese labour in relation to the shortage of workers for the company’s underground operations was criticised by Mr. H. H. Robbins, presiding at the annual general meeting of Malayan Collieries Ltd. in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. Mr. Robbins disclosed that repeated requests for permits to make it possible to send head men to China to recruit labourers had been refused, apparently on the ground of the abuse to which some of these permits had been put in the past. He went on to condemn “the iniquitous practice which exists between some of the steamship companies engaged in the transportation of immigrants and their passage brokers cum boarding-house keepers at China coast ports, “ and remarked that it was a great pity that the Chinese and Malayan Governments did not combine to eliminate these abuses. “Such profiteering by individuals and organisations at China coast ports,” he added, “is something with which one would expect any self-respecting steamship company to refrain from having any association.” The chairman in moving the adoption of the report and accounts said: “The year under review maintained the promise which was in evidence when last I addressed you and though the course was not an easy one, it is gratifying to be able to record continued improvement in your company’s position. “The report and accounts having been in your hands for the prescribed period may I take them as read? Turning to the figures on the balance sheet, on the liabilities side it will be seen that capital remained unaltered. “Dividends unclaimed and sundry creditors and credit balances remain about the same, the latter notwithstanding the much larger turnover. The general reserve remained at $1,200,000 while the mine amortisation fund is increased by the usual annual provision of $60,000. “On turning to the assets side it will be noted that leasehold property is reduced by the $100,000 provided at the last meeting. HIGHER EXPENDITURE “The expenditure on capital account was considerably higher than has been the case for several years, the increase on the amount spent on permanent buildings being necessitated by the fire referred to in the General Managers’ Report and by the considerable increase in the Asiatic staff and labour force owing to the revival for demand for our products, it being considered wiser to provide buildings of a permanent nature at the outset then to erect temporary ones with their attendant high maintenance and eventual replacement cost. Considerable permanent building work remains to be done, mostly in the replacement of temporary and semi-permanent buildings which for the most part have served their useful life and which do not appear in our balance sheets as assets. “For the rest, the plant purchased and installed was incidental to the colliery undertaking. Considerable further expenditure both on buildings and plant, especially power plant, remains to be incurred and steps have been taken to finance this, in part independently of profits. INCREASE FOR DEPRECIATION “The allocation for depreciation is higher than in the previous year by some $60,000, this being considered advisable as a result of the greater wear and tear on plant incidental to greater production. “Operating stores and spares shew a decrease, this being due principally to the transfer from stores to various capital works of a considerable quantity of plant and equipment to take care of the enlarged operations. “Sundry debtors and debit balances as is to be expected are a little higher. The reserve for bad and doubtful debts remains the same and is ample to cover all contingencies. “Investments and cash in bank and on deposit shew an increase of some $224,000, the investments having been added to by the purchase at par of $131,400 in the 3 per cent. F.M.S. Loan. The balance of cash remains in our bankers’ hands awaiting favourable investment. “The trading and profit and loss account discloses a profit of $596,374, this being $126,404 higher than for the previous year. “The demand for coal within the F.M.S. increased more or less in step with the exportable allowances under the Tin Restriction Enactment, the percentage of standard production being 90 per cent. international and 65 per cent. domestic for January and 105 per cent. international and 76 per cent. domestic respectively for December. The allowance at the moment is, as you know, 100 per cent. international and 72 per cent. domestic with 110 per cent. international and 79 per cent. domestic for the quarter commencing with April. LABOUR SHORTAGE IMMIGRATION SYSTEM CRITICISED “The supply of labour for our underground operations was inadequate, necessitating an unduly large part of our production being drawn from our opencast mines, and this unbalanced our stripping programme. “Under the existing Chinese immigration quota system it was found quite impossible to bring our underground labour force to the required strength, and repeated requests for permits to make it possible to send head men to China to recruit men who are either experienced in underground work or attracted by such conditions, notwithstanding very full explanations of our position, have been refused. “INIQUITOUS PRACTICE” “Apparently the main reason for withholding permits is the abuse to which some of them have been put in the past. This abuse has been the sale of such permits for, it is said, as much as a hundred dollars per head and if this is so, it would seem that the fault lies more with the existing quota system than with the permit system. The iniquitous practice which exists between some of the steamship companies engaged in the transportation of immigrants and their passage brokers cum boarding-house keepers at China coast ports is largely responsible and is much to be deplored. “It is a great pity that the Chinese and Malayan Governments do not combine to eliminate these abuses by introducing some of the control and organisation which characterise the satisfactory Indian immigration system. This, with a permit system if necessary within a quota system, would ensure the reservation of blocks of accommodation for batches of coolies. It would also give the Government and employers some control over the class of labour brought into the country and free the immigrant labourer of the filching of his savings or the mortgaging of his future. Such profiteering by individuals and organisations at China coast ports is something with which one would expect any self-respecting steamship company to refrain from having any association. MINE STRIKES OPEN DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY “Until quite recently we have had every reason to be proud of the understanding and confidence which have existed between the company and its labour force. Recently, however, there has been considerable restlessness and a growing unreasonable attitude in our labour, culminating in two strikes within four months, the first in November and the second last week. The first was settled within a few days without any action being taken against the professional agitators responsible for the stoppage. “This seeming immunity apparently engendered confidence in the ringleaders of last week’s trouble and their attitude was one of open defiance of all constituted authority of Government and the company alike. It was made perfectly clear that their action in bringing to a standstill a key industry of the country was primarily aimed at Government with the object of trying to force the hand of Government in the matter of strikers arrested in another part of the State. Government accepted the challenge and all concerned are to be congratulated on their masterly treatment of a very difficult situation at a time when intimidation of the grossest kind was rampant. “Purged of the contaminating influence, the men returned to work in good heart and the organisation was re-established and production resumed within a few hours. As a result of our observation during the past twelve months or so and experience in November and last week, it is clear that age-old customs such as the use of intermediaries between the employer and the labour must be gradually eliminated. Though we have never favoured the sub-contractor system and have exercised control over deductions by contractors, if the time has arrived when the contractor system has become irksome and the coolie feels that with the necessary additional help and support of his employer he can work without a contractor, this company will not hesitate to afford the help and assistance required. “A good deal has already been done in this connection, but in seeking to benefit the labourer we have to be careful not to unduly injure others who have served the company well and who, though victims of change, can still serve the company in an altered capacity. The change, therefore, must be more a process of accelerated evolution. A WAGES BOARD “It is being freely suggested that the time has arrived to consider the setting up of a Wages Board for the whole country or some form of industrial arbitration, the law requiring every class of labour to submit its grievance to such a Board or Court. Such machinery has emerged from much bitterness and industrial strife in other countries where 100 per cent. of the workers are citizens of the country and it would not appear unreasonable for the Government of this country, where the majority of the workers are only temporarily domiciled, to compulsorily apply in advance a solution which otherwise will be arrived at ultimately, but only after much dislocation of industry and loss to both employer and employee. To revert to my review of the year which closed with December last: The investigation of the occurrence of coal in Johore was concluded with negative results. “Your company are now investigating a further occurrence in the Batang Padang District in Perak. Indications are that the coal here is less mature than that at Batu Arang and it is still too early to say whether it occurs in a commercial quantity. “I do not propose taking up a great deal of your time with a record of progress made in the various auxiliary undertakings of your company. The improved conditions are reflected upon them and though last year continued to be one of intermittent operation of all three undertakings, the better demand at higher prices promises more continuous operation and more satisfactory returns during the current year. CEMENT MANUFACTURE “Our proposals in connection with cement were not materially advanced, though the matter is again under the active consideration of Government. As associates in the matter we are negotiating with important British interests in the cement manufacturing business throughout the Empire and you will be advised of any recommendation that we may have to make in due course. In that connection however, it is hoped that any interest which we may acquire in any new company to be formed can be financed without further appeal to you for capital. “As you will have seen from the report from your directors for the year under review and from the accompanying circular, it has been decided to make a capital issue to provide in part for future capital expenditure and to make possible the speeding up of the work involved, notably the completion of the replacement of temporary quarters for the labour force and the installation of new boilers, additional electric generating plant, and further mechanical stripping equipment. I feel you need no assurance that the money will be carefully and wisely spent in further strengthening the position of your company and in maintain its dividend-paying capacity. Those who seek an investment of surplus funds will find in the issue a very satisfactory one, while those who do not seek further investment, or feel that their holding in the company is sufficient, will no doubt find in the sale of the rights a ready cash return. “The staff at Batu Arang has worked loyally and well throughout a very busy and at times exceedingly worrying year and the members have earned the thanks and practical appreciation of your Board. “While I have been somewhat briefer than in past years, I trust that I have suitably augmented the information conveyed in the reports and accounts. If I have not, please do not hesitate to ask questions. THE FUTURE “I refrain from making any predictions as to what may lie in the future. Here in Malaya we have our troubles and those associated with our immigrant Chinese labour at present loom large. With the extremist element effectively disposed of and with the setting up of an effective tribunal as a result of the proper understanding an co-operation of all concerned, there would appear no valid reason why the inevitable organisation of labour within the limitations which it will be perfectly reasonable for Government to impose upon non-domiciled labourers, should not proceed in a perfectly orderly way. “Our cost of production is, of course, increasing, but not out of proportion with the market value of coal. “Internationally ominous clouds still overhang and paradoxically enough, it is these which to a large extent, account for our present comparative prosperity. We all hope that the clouds will clear with a better understanding between nations and while the effect of this upon world trade should be immediate and considerable. We must proceed cautiously in view of the more orderly progress of rearmament which would naturally result. It might be put that if we try to benefit by our past experience of trade depressions and the trials of our emergence therefrom and if we bear in mind that our present activity is to a certain extent engendered by abnormal, if not actually artificial conditions, we should not go very far wrong. Mr. Lim Cheng Law: I would like to have more information about the accounts presented. I am not adopting a hostile attitude to the board, or to Messrs. J. A. Russell, but in the interests of shareholders generally it is most important that some idea should be given as to the salary and/or commission paid by the Malayan Collieries to Messrs. J. A. Russell, the General Managers and secretaries for the last year. The chairman: A salary, but no commission, is paid and details are available and could be given in meeting or afterwards as Mr. Lim Cheng Law desires. Mr. Lim Cheng Law intimated that after the conclusion of the meeting would be suitable. SPLITTING OF SHARES CHINESE SHAREHOLDERS PROPOSAL Mr. Lim Cheng Law: I should like to inquire whether the directors have ever considered the question of splitting the shares of Malayan Collieries into smaller denominations from $10 to $1 a share, and if not, whether they will consider the matter at an early date. With the shares originally standing at $10 each there was not a free market, and if the shares were split into denominations of $1, not only would we be in consonance with the general opinion of the local share market, but more opportunities would be found in dealing in small numbers of shares. In addition it would also tend to the shareholders retaining their interest in the company more as an investment. The chairman: The question of the splitting of the shares was referred to shareholders a few years ago, but the majority of shareholders voted against it. The matter has since been considered, and the board is prepared to reconsider it, but the matter would need to be referred to shareholders for final decision by way of a special resolution. PAMOEKAN BAY TO BE SOLD. Mr Lim Cheng Law: Is there any prospect of a recommencement of operations at Pamoekan Bay Colliery? The chairman: There is no prospect of an immediate commencement of operations and, in the meantime, it is the policy of the board to dispose of the property. The final dividend of 7 ½ per cent. was unanimously approved on the motion of the chairman, seconded by Mr. W. H. Martin. The directors’ remuneration of $20,000 was unanimously approved on the motion of the chairman, seconded by Mr. W. A. Stanton. Mr. Lim Cheng Law: I have much pleasure in proposing the re-election of Mr. H. H. Robbins as a director. I consider it distinctly to the advantage of the Malayan Collieries that we should have the continuance of his services in directing its business. I believe I am right in saying that he knows our property from personal inspection, and from the address he has given us to-day, I am sure we all realise the great interest he takes in this great and important concern. (Applause). This was seconded by Mr. W. H. Martin and carried unanimously. Mr. Lim Cheng Law: May I rise again to support that Mr. R. C. Russell be re-elected as a director of the company? I think Mr. Russell’s services are very well-known to us all, and the resolution needs no words of recommendation from me. He is a worthy successor to a worthy and celebrated brother, the late Mr. J. A. Russell, whose memory is still cherished by the shareholders of the Malayan Collieries. (Hear, hear). This was seconded by Mr. F. Cunningham and carried unanimously. Mr. W. A. Stanton proposed and Mr. A. W. Delamore seconded that Messrs Evatt and Co. be re-elected auditors for the ensuing year. SATISFACTORY RESULTS Mr. Lim Chen Law: Before the meeting concludes I should like, as a shareholder—and I think I am voicing the feeling of a good many other shareholders—to express my appreciation by congratulating the directors on the satisfactory result which they have laid before us to-day, and which is substantially greater than that of last year. For many years the shareholders of this company have, meeting after meeting, been in the happy position of, after listening to what the chairman has to say, going home from the contentment-laden atmosphere that generally pervades these meetings, with his dividend in his pocket and this time raised to 15 per cent. The magnitude and strength of the Malayan Collieries is a matter of great pride to Malaya. Unlike many other industrial concerns I believe I am right in saying that its present position has been achieved by its own resources and initiative. This fact bears eloquent testimony to the skill and ability with which its affairs have always been conducted. I think, therefore, that the least we can do is to propose a very hearty and sincere vote of thanks to the directors, the general managers and the staff. (Applause). LABOUR’S DEMANDS Now, Mr. chairman and gentlemen, whatever may be said in favour of the strike as an instrument for the betterment of the conditions of labour, there can be no two opinions about the rights and the wrongs of the strike that is going on at the present moment. A strike of this nature is doing no good to the cause of labour in this country. It is in the nature of things that unbalanced persons, exulting in newly won power, should lose their sense of proportion and act unreasonably. Those of the strikers who are able to realise this have tried to import a semblance of reason into their demands by putting forward certain proposals regarding wages and conditions. The elimination of this troublesome element will do much good to Malaya. For owing to their readiness to go on strike, Malaya, particularly Selangor, is already earning a very bad name. These labour troubles increased on a progressive scale owing to the weak-kneed attitude of employers. The Government must act under such circumstances with firmness. I would like to see the inauguration of a department equivalent to a Ministry of Labour or the introduction of some efficient machinery sponsored and directed by the Malayan Government for the ascertainment, adjudication and settlement of industrial disputes between labour and capital. Had such machinery been in existence in Kuala Lumpur to-day, this strike would not have been thus unduly prolonged. (Hear, hear and applause). The meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to the chair.


The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 6 April 1937, Page 2
 Letters 

. Malayan Collieries. To the Editor, Sir,- Mar. 23, 1937: Malayan Collieries Ltd. One bonus share to be given to shareholders for every three shares held! Mar. 26, 1937: Strike of coolies at Malayan Collieries, Ltd., Batu Arang! Yours, etc., WHY?

The Straits Times, 8 April 1937, Page 12
 & The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 9 April 1937, Page 10 HONG FATT TO BUILD UP RESERVES. Absolutely Essential, Says Chairman. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Apr. 7. IN explanation of the apparent reluctance to distribute profits to shareholders, Mr. Chew Kam Chuan, chairman, in addressing shareholders at the annual meeting of Hong Fatt (Sungei Besi) Ltd. here today declared that it was essential to build up reserves. (Summary: resources against contingencies, labour troubles at mine, development scheme, present conditions artificial, he endorsed statement of the Malayan Collieries chairman that caution was necessary. Full report page 7) (238 words) 


192/1937 Sel Sec

BATU ARANG.
Information was received at 7.30 p.m. on 23rd that a general strike would be called at Batu Arang at dawn on the 24th.
2. An Incident was also later reported by an official of the Malayan Collieries office on the evening of the 23rd that a European member of the mining staff on his way to open east mine No. 8 was obstructed by a rope barrier across the road and told to return.
The Chief police Officer, in accordance with arrangements previously made with the Malayan Collieries, immediately ordered a guard of 25 men to proceed from Kuala Lumpur to Rawang and stand by for further orders. The Officer Super- intending Police Circle, Ulu Selangor, proceeded to Rawang, and in the early hours of the morning of the 24, mounted this guard at the Collieries Power House.
3. At an early hour this morning the Police at Batu Arang reported the movements of a party of picketers, some 50 strong, armed with pick-handles and, in some cases, with hammers. This party visited cooly lines ensuring complete
cessation. The Police did not, for obvious reasons, attempt arrests. The Police at 9 a.m. reported that the water supply to the power station had been cut off by the strikers. This action was intended to produce a complete stoppage of all services in the collieries, and to bring about, of course, the flooding of the mines. The engineers were able, however, to replace with Indian labour, the staffs of the pumping stations who had been forced to stop. At the moment therefore, the power station continues to function.
4. The Asst. Protector of Chinese Mr. Broome, left for the
page 2
Mine early this morning - being unaware of the full facts of the situation. The Chief Police Officer took the responsibility of stopping his appearance at the Mine.
5. The above incidents made it clear that the temper of the strikers and their organisation behind them had created a situation very different even from that which confronted the authorities in November last.
It is extremely probable that had the Protector of Chinese opened any discussions this morning between the coolies and the management - the meeting would have immediately become under the influence of the picketers and agitators, quite out of control. And the Mine and Government officials would have been subjected to restraint in the Company's offices by thousands of workers. The situation would have been exceedingly dangerous, necessitating the use of force which the Selangor Police are quite unable under existing conditions to supply. The Chief Police Officer gave his views on the above lines to the management, and requested that no attempt be made to negotiate officially with the strikers until the authorities had time to place on the spot sufficient force adequately to control any situation which might develop.
6. The Management and the Asst. Protector of Chinese were in agreement with the C.P.O's views. These views were based:-
(a) on the experience gained by the police last November
(b) on their experience of the rapid degeneration of the attitude of organized labour to authority as exhibited in recent events;
(c) on the fact that it is a physical impossibility for the police, with their possible commitments in this State and in the Negri to embark on the policing of Batu Arang on the scale embarked upon in November;
(d) on the firm opinion that the time for smooth bargaining at Batu Arang is temporarily past because the labour cannot at the moment be trusted to conduct negotiations with its employers without seizing upon any opportunity given for intimidation.

LHK.

It is requested that the following number be quoted in the reply to this letter.
No
OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE.
FEDERATED MALAY STATES, 
KUALA LUMPUR. 27 MARCH 1937
Sir,
9 A.M. 27 MARCH 1937.
By yesterday evening it was quite clear that there was no hope of a settlement; a party of police - 150 strong - was sent to Batu Arang with a view to surprising the turbulent portion of the labour force before daybreak.
2. Party left at 3.30 A.M. under the Chief Police Officer found large mob of coolies armed and waiting for police whom they attacked. In the ensuing fight one striker was shot dead and 2 or 3 wounded; no serious police casualty. The Malay Regiment stood by in support of the Police but were not involved in the fighting.
3. I understand that the police are now examining the coolies on the mine as to whether or not they are willing to return to work on the revised terms offered them.
4. Two companies of Punjabis arrived in Kuala Lumpur at 7 A.M. this morning; the police in Kuala Lumpur are very short at the moment.
5. Prom Negri Sembilan the information is to the effect that the Estates which it was hoped last night would resume work this morning - there were five of them on the Labu Road - have failed to resume. They still demand the release of prisoners.
6. I understand that on two of the Estates the morning tapping round has been given out to Tamils whilst on a third Estate where there are squatters the Manager has instructed them to resume work which they are not willing to do. He has given them notice to quit.
7. The situation at the moment is a little uncertain but no incident has yet occurred.
8. Further news from Batu Arang is to the effect that the police party who went there last night were attacked by a crowd of some 500 to 700 armed coolies. In the ensuing fight nine shots were fired by the Police which resulted in the death of one man, the serious wounding of another and the wounding of three others. Thirty-three men were arrested in connection with rioting and are now in Kuala Lumpur. A further party of thirty men who, on being questioned, elected to return to China are at present on their way. The Chief Police Officer estimates that this 30 represents roughly 10% of the coolies questioned. Questioning of other coolies proceeds.
The situation on the mine at the moment is quiet
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
Commissioner of Police,
FEDERATED MALAY STATES.

OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, FEDERATED MALAY STATES,
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 March...l937.
Sir,
29.MARCH 1937.
No incident of importance happened yesterday.
2. By 2 P.M. as a result of the very fine efforts by Mr. A .H. Dickinson, Chief Police Officer, Selangor, with the help of Mr.Broome, Assistant Protector of Chinese, work was resumed on Batu Arang; output of coal amounted to from 900 to 1200 tons.
3. Raids were made by the Director Criminal Intelligence during the night of 27th but were not successful.
4. In Kajang area S.Rinching Estate resumed work but picketers were reported active again in the afternoon in Kajang area.
5. Information was received that Hong Fatt & Sungei Besi mines would strike this morning. Mr.R.Kingsley-Bell, 0/S Police Circle with Mr.Yates, Detective Branch, and Mr.Grice, Protector of Chinese visited the area accompanied by Major Ballantine (in mufti) Punjab Regiment and. returned with reassuring reports. At 11 P.M .last night information was received contradicting this and stating that the Batu Arang happenings had incensed the Sungei Besi Miners. Precautions were taken and the mines are working and apparently very contentedly It is stated that the Wardieburn, Harpenden labour are thoroughly frightened and want to resume work on any terms.

B. R. Sel 29/3 Kuala Lumpur

6. Mr.Morrish, Director Criminal Intelligence, made successful
 raids in the S. Ranch, Kajang and Serdang areas and arrested four 
important men. Rewards of $100/- a head have been offered for the
 arrest of others.
7. Negri Sembilan is quiet, labour has partially returned in
 Mantin and Sengkang.
8. With a view to reassuring wavering strikers lorry patrols by parties of the Punjab Regiment are being arranged through Kajang and Sungei Besi areas.
9. I much regret to report that Mr. R. Kingsley-Bell, Assistant
 Commissioner of Police, who has been doing good work in connection
 with the strikes was admitted to hospital last night with a view to being operated on this morning for appendicitis.

10. One hundred of the Malay Regiment who had been at Batu Arang passed through Kuala Lumpur this morning on their way back to Port Dickson. The situation is reassuring; there is a deal of Cleaning up' to be done but continuous pressure should effect the general
 resumption of work. The district of Klang requires the serious attention of the Police and an early opportunity will be taken to reassert ourselves in that area.

I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,

Commissioner of Police,
FEDERATED MALAY STATES.

Mines Sel.203/37,
Bulletin regarding strike of 4,000 miners at Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang.
24th to 28th March, 1937.
Wednesday
24.3.37
5.45 a.m. Bellamy, manager, phones that a strike is likely. There was a meeting of about 400
men the night before. There is talk of pump men not working. Extra police are on the spot.
6.45 Bellamy phones that the strike appears to be on. Overseers and pump men are working. No coal is being got. The Tamils employed on stripping have been intimidated and are not working. Workshops do not start till 7.30 a.m., so it is not known if they will start.
A representative from each Kongsi was called to a meeting at the Office last night to air any grievances but none were forthcoming. They said they were satisfied. Up to the present no demands have been submitted (6.45 a.m.)
Peng Sum, general factotum of the East Mine, has been threatened on the grounds that he spies for the Company, and has gone to Kuala Lumpur for safety.
11.30 a.m. Bellamy phones that work on Plywood has also stopped. The Assistant Chinese Consul is making enquiries among the coolies. The Chinese Consul and protector of Chinese will visit this afternoon. There are extra police out. No signs of disturbance. Absolutely no demands have been made by the strikers.
3.50 p.m. Bellamy phones that there is some intimidation of the Company’s Overseers and pump men. The Chinese Consul and protector of Chinese have not arrived. Demands:- Some have been presented, among them - No discussion will take piece until the people arrested at Kajang have been released, compensated, etc. Increases of wages varying from 30-50%. Dismissal of certain people from the Company’s service, among them Peng Sum, vide 6.45 a.m. Bulletin, para.3.

- 2 -
8 p.m.
Rang up Bellamy who reports - no change - except that women have been seen addressing the strikers and that two companies of the Malay Regiment have arrived on the same. The demands are being investigated by Robbins, the first of which is that no discussion will take place until Kajang people have been released. Asked Bellamy to ring me up if any change in the situation occurs.
Thursday
25.3.37
3.45 p.m.
Bellamy rings up to say he is concerned about safety of mine. Overseers and pump men have been intimidated and dare not go underground. That stoppages have been erected by European staff to stop a small fire spreading but they cannot work for long under this pressure.
5.15. p.m.
I visited the mine and discussed situation with Bellamy and Barraclough. Firemen in power Station refuse to return to work owing to intimidation. Some Indians have been persuaded to fire the boilers and hydraulic sand filling fire area commenced at 5 p.m. Most important that a minimum of 50 safety men be available to man pumps, inspect mine for fire and gas and rescue work, but strikers will not permit these men to return in spite of personal request by managers. Will interview the British Resident tomorrow if further heatings are reported. Company have offered workers 10% increase of wages and made other concessions subject to return of 50 safety men.
Asked Bellamy to supply me with certain figures and returned to Kuala Lumpur at 8.15 p.m.

Friday 26.3.37

4.p.m Asst. Warden of Mines reports he has been underground and that the mine is safe pro:tem. Fire area has been stowered and apparently satisfactory, but lower levels flooded for 300 feet but pumps working. Two European officers
pulled out of a car and insulted last night but on orders received did not retaliate.
5.30.p.m.
Rang up Bellamy who reports mine safe provided pumping continues and no further outbreak of fire which would be most difficult to deal with by European staff alone.
Strikers still refuse to negotiate until Kajang arrests are released, or to allow safety men to return underground.
Bellamy thinks about 20 agitators, as a committee, are ruling the situation and that if police and military prevented street meetings that miners would return to work, being satisfied with terms offered.
Saturday
27.3.37
11.30.a.m.
Rang up Bellamy who reports the Police with military backing raided the strikers' head quarters and kongsi houses at 5 a.m. One striker was killed and three injured and some 30 arrested.( Sentence crossed out here which is illegible except for last 4 words “being deported to China”) The safety men and some overseers have returned underground. Another heating has bean located which is being dealt with.
2.30.p.m.
I visited East Mine pit head where 160 coolies have already signed on for work and more are expected. Everything appears quiet. The Company have offered a general increase of 10% on wages. Bottom 300 feet flooded and lower pumps out of action, more will be installed to dewater this section. Otherwise condition of mine satisfactory. Police patrolling kongsi houses and some have returned to Kuala Lumpur.
Monday 28.3.37
Noon
Phoned Bellamy who reports that the number of contractors have been reduced from 14 to 5 and that the coolies are returning t work as the reorganisation and adjustment of the labour force are made. On some sections 100% and in others 70% have returned to work. The heating area is being stowered and conditions in the mine appear satisfactory. A football match yesterday between the military and mine staff with a fair crowd of coolies as onlookers indicate the present general satisfactory atmosphere at the colliery.
28th March, 1937,
Warden of Mines, Selangor.

Mines Sel. 203/37

Memorandum re regular Colliery inspections necessary for safety of mine and future operations.

In underground workings coal is liable to spontaneous combustion and fires occur almost weekly at Malayan Collieries
which can be controlled by a trained staff of safety workers? with special breathing apparatus.
They occur as follows:-
(i) preliminary heatings distinguished by a particular smell,
(ii) Actual ignition accompanied by smoke and smouldering of the coal.
(iii) Actual flaming of the coal.
products of combustion are:-
(i) CO2 - not dangerous to life in small quantities.
(ii) CO. - Deadly poisonous gas in minute proportion in the air.
(iii) CH4 - Explosive gas and if over 5% may explode with terrible consequences.

Fires are detected by specially trained overseers and
are dealt with by;-
(i) Cutting out the heating coal.
(ii) Sealing off by brick stoppings or by hydraulic sand filling.
To detect and deal with fires at Malayan Collieries a
specially trained staff of about 50 with oxygen apparatus is
necessary to prevent spreading with following possible results:
(i) Loss of coal areas involving immediate output of 1,000 tons daily and reserves of 10 million tons.
(ii) Reduction of mine output from 2,000 to 1,000 tons daily.
(iii) 18 months development work before other areas can produce,
(iv) Loss of plant and materials in mine valued at one million dollars.
(v) Failure of meet consumers’ demands, viz:-
F.M.S.Railways - 450 tons daily.
Perak River Hydro-Electric Co. - 500 tons daily.
Bungsar Power Station - 200 tons daily.
Tin Dredges - 700 tons daily.
Other consumers - 150 tons daily.
The importance of these supplies cannot be over emphasised.
26th March, 1937.
Warden of Mines, Selangor.

It is requested that the following number be quoted in the reply to this letter.
No.1) CPO Sel 217/37

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF POLICE OFFICER,
SELANGOR,
KUALA LUMPUR 6th April, 1937

Batu Arang Collieries Strike

Police Raid
Sir,
In continuation of my report dated 24th March, dealing with the initiation of a strike at the Batu Arang Collieries, I have the honour to submit a further report covering occurrences up to the 30th March.
2. In my report of the 24th March, I mentioned "the rapid degeneration of the attitude of organized labour to authority as exhibited in recent events" and I expressed the opinion that the labour at Batu Arang "cannot at the moment he trusted to conduct negotiations with its employers without seizing upon any opportunity given for intimidation."
3. The situation In Selangor progressively deteriorated. The Selangor Police, fully occupied with labour troubles elsewhere in the State, were unable to detail adequate forces for the safeguarding of life and property on the Collieries, where the Police regarded possible developments with serious concern.
On the morning of the 24th two companies of the Malay Regiment were therefore ordered to Batu Arang from Port Dickson. Troops went into billets at 7.30 p.m. Two European police officers and 25 rank and file remained to
The Commissioner of Police,
Federated Malay States, Kuala Lumpur,
assist the Officer Commanding the troops with their specialized knowledge and experience,
4. The Police were aware that the Strike Committee at Batu Arang was in liaison with and acting under the guidance of the unlawful "Union of Rubber Workers of Negri Sembilan & Selangor" ... and that it was the intention so to develop the situation at Batu Arang that, "by the paralysis of essential services in the F.M.S. and of a great part of the tin-mining industry, Government would he forced into conceding the extortionate demands of the strikers. On success at Batu Arang therefore, depended the success of the whole strike movement with all the chaos and danger that would have implied in the F.M.S. The organization behind the whole movement was under Communist influence,
5. The Strike Committee at Batu Arang was strongly entrenched. It put into operation a programme aimed at open defiance of the Government. To carry this programme through, it had organized a force of some 600-800 miners. The strikers, from the first steps taken on the night of the 23rd, had complete control of the situation which this Committee had created. On the 24th every service in the mine was paralyzed ... every nationality of workers was affected. Gangs of armed strike pickets were out at dawn. The arrival of the Malay Regiment had no effect in curtailing lawless acts.
Government authority ceased to exist. The following offences were committed under the orders of the Strike Committee:-
(a) Unlawful Restraint,
A "traitors' prison" was set up in which suspects were incarcerated,
A senior police officer actually saw the prison, but was powerless to effect the release of the prisoners and had to leave them (See Diary attached).
(b) Obstruction of roads.
Heavy timber and ropes were used to prevent access to parts of the mine controlled by the strikers,
(c) Criminal intimidation.
Pickets of strikers armed with iron bars and poles turned back -
i. A British Officer of the Malay Regiment, ii. A British Staff Sergeant,
iii.Organized gangs of armed picketers prevented labour working,

iv. Intimidation of Tamil mandores - by letter threatening assault if they did not bring out Tamil labour.
v. No European, not even the Protector of Chinese dared use the main approach to the mine which passed through the "armed camp" maintained by the strikers.
(d) Unlawful Assembly.
1. A mob of 200-300 strikers rushed a military picket. They were stopped by barbed wire a moment before the officer in charge was about to open fire.
2. A procession “supported” by an escort of men armed with iron bars and poles paraded the colliery, impressing marchers and flying banners demanding the release of Government prisoners (of no concern to Batu Arang).
(e) Gang Robbery - (for the purpose of collecting funds) 
An Indian from Rantau Panjang was robbed in the Collieries of a sum of $90/-.
These offences were committed without let or hindrance.
6. The Police viewed with the utmost concern the power of an organization which was able to commit with impunity offences of so grave a nature, and doubted the advisability of treating with a body in a position so to dictate to Government authority.
7. At 9.10 pm. on the 25th March a conference was held at the Residency. His Excellency the High Commissioner heard the views of the police. The Protector of Chinese was also present and expressed his views.
The Police continued to watch closely developments during the next 24 hours. The negotiations for settlement broke down completely on the afternoon of the 26th. The Strike Committee refused to consider anything but the fullest sub- mission to their demands which Included
a. 50% rise in pay.
b. Release of all prisoners arrested in Selangor during
the disturbances,
It was now clear that the Strike Committee at Batu Arang considered itself omnipotent.
8. A further interview with His Excellency the High Commissioner and the Resident was urgently sought and granted at 8 p.m. on the evening of the 26th, The Commissioner of Police, accompanied by the Director of Criminal Intelligence and the Chief Police Officer, submitted the desire of the Police to break up immediately and with whatever force was considered necessary, the dangerous situation existing at the Collieries. His Excellency acquiesced.
9. At 3.30 a.m. on the morning of the 27th a force of 200 police left by lorries for the Collieries. A raid was carried out on the stone kongsis housing the Strike Committee, their office, their prison, their picketers, their armament and the force of some 700-1000 coolies on which they relied to resist any aggression by Government. The Malay Regiment was requested to assist by having a company in position at the further end of the kongsis to support the Police. It was not considered advisable to use troops for a raid of this nature, peculiarly a police matter.
The Police effected their entry along the road leading through the kongsis without difficulty. The night was dark; there was some movement in the kongsis and a few lamps were burning. The Officers of the Criminal Intelligence Branch with their detectives then made straight for the kongsi believed to house the headquarters of the Strike Committee. A section of Police, armed with batons, was in support. Other sections, each under its officer, proceeded according to plan to the several kongsi houses -- their instructions being to block these houses and allow no persons out. Each kongsi housed from 100-150 coolies. A party of Police was detailed for reserve. At that moment an alarm was sounded by the striking of a gong and the blowing of two blasts on a whistle. This was the signal for the pouring out of the kongsi houses of several hundred coolies armed with iron bars, poles, pick handles, hatchets and files and long-handled axes. The main attack was made on the detective party who had to proceed some yards down a road to the right. The attack was clearly planned to take them in the rear. It was here that the shooting occurred.
10. The other police sections were engaged in driving 
back the rioters into their respective kongsis. The
 company of the Malay Regiment situated some 200 yards away
 came up at the port and with fixed bayonets, when they be-
came aware that the attack on the police had started. They
 did most useful work in assisting the Police and comported
 themselves exceedingly well. The majority, it is understood, were recruits of 5 or 6 months training.
11, The rioting did not last long. There was no rifle
 firing. The Rifle sections of the Riot Squad were never
called upon. Nine shots were fired by detectives. One man was killed by revolver shot; 2 men were wounded;
others received some injuries from baton blows.
12, The Police were exceedingly fortunate in receiving
 only minor injuries, European officers were present when the
 detectives fired, and their evidence supports absolutely the
 need for the detectives to have fired. The absence of 
injuries amongst the police is perhaps due to the promptness 
with which they drove the rioters back and the discipline 
with which each section carried out its allotted task.
A clear charge of attempted murder lies against one rioter. The conduct of the detectives and the rank and file of the Police under a most sudden and obviously planned attack was excellent. Firing was at no time wild or uncontrolled. 3 hits out of nine shots does, in the circumstances, indicate considerable individual control. A large party of rioters fled into the darkness and the blukar.
13. With daylight the Police proceeded to examine the 
persons detained in the kongsi houses. Certain of these 
houses had not taken any notable part in the rioting; and
 their occupants were most anxious to resume work. No action 
was taken against them. Other persons found in affected 
kongsis declined to stay on the Mine. They were detained. All persons, with the exception of very old men, found in the Loh Fah, Lee Yew and Chan Kok kongsis were detained. These three kongsis played the most violent part in the strike organization. It is inconceivable that their occupants were unaware of the nature of the organization to which they were subject. The Chan Kok kongsi, according to documents found, was deputed to carry out the duties of the "vanguard".
It is not too much to say that the Strike Committee had set
 up an armed camp; and every person remaining therein was,
eo facto, a member of an unlawful assembly.
The total number of persons detained by the police as a 
result of action taken at Batu Arang is 116.
The Chief Police Officer took further steps to secure the
 situation by causing a notice to be posted in every kongsi
 on the Mine. A copy is attached. This notice was translated, printed and posted by 2 p.m. with the assistance of 
the Company. Many other kongsis were also visited and 
warned of the consequences of failure to observe law and 
order. Mr. Broome, Asst. Protector of Chinese, who happened
 to be with the Officer in charge of Detectives late on the 
night of Friday 25th when preparations for the raid were in 
progress, accompanied the police to Batu Arang. His 
assistance in the arduous work which had to be done through
out the 26th was invaluable; he contributed greatly to
 inspiring confidence in the legitimate labour which remained
 on the Mine.
l4 Results of the Raid
Examination by daylight of the scene of the riot showed the care with which arrangements had been made. The alarm gong was found with instructions as to its use chalked upon it. The kongsis were plastered with ‘strike' instructions. The "office" of the Strike Committee was located as expected. The principals, of course, made good their escape with valuable documents. Some documents were, however, secured.
Particular attention is called to 'D’ attached which includes a detailed statement of the Strike organization and many other documents published by the Strike Committee.
Other documents and information in possession of the Director of Criminal Intelligence prove not only the determined spirit actuating the Strike Directorate, but also the close connection between the Batu Arang leaders and the Communist Party of Malaya through Malayan Central Northern section. The "prison" was located in the office. The prisoners were released by the Police. They have given most valuable statements. One statement is attached.
15. The raid confirmed in its results all police information as to the dangerous nature of the whale strike movement, and the police view that urgent action was necessary to reassert Government's authority, if law and order was to be maintained in the F.M.S. The raid was followed by the immediate resumption of essential and normal colliery services.
16. The effect on the Rubber Tappers' Strike both in the Negri and in Selangor is reported by the Director of Criminal Intelligence to have been profound. The Strike Committee in the Negri, owing to the failure of the Batu Arang test Venture, decided to make terms with employers without further consultation with the Selangor Union, This action was rapidly followed by a collapse of the Selangor Tappers Strike Organization.
17. The use at Batu Arang of real force by the Police is reported by members of the Chinese Community to have come as a severe shock to the strikers. It is further reported that those interested in fomenting more than legitimate labour trouble regarded the use against them of firearms as beyond the bounds of possibility. The power of the Labour Party in Great Britain was believed by those persons to be such, that it would be sufficient to deter the Malayan Government from countenancing the use of such weapons by the Police.
18. Apart from resulting in the immediate return of the Colliery to production, the Batu Arang Raid cleared the atmosphere throughout the other areas affected in this State and has, it is hoped, restored respect amongst strikers for government authority.
19, The Director of Criminal Intelligence is in possess-ion of much evidence proving the part played by the Communist Party of Malaya in organizing and controlling the labour unrest from which this State has so seriously suffered.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,

Your obedient servant Chief Police Officer, Selangor,

Forwarded for your information Deputy Commissioner, Chief Police Officer
Selangor. S. R. Sel.

FEDERATED MALAY STATES POLICE. ADUAN
SAKSI

ORANG KENA TUDOH.
PERCHAKAPAN DALAM PEMEREKSAAN.
No. Report Rumah Pasong

Perchakapan bagi Liow Chang Nama bapa
Bangsa Tempat di-peranakan
Umor tahun. Kerja dudok di
Di-terima oleh. C. R. Morrish K.L. pada 27 .3. 1937, jam 10. p.m.
Jurubhasa Francis Huang deripada Hakka kepada English
kata-nya I was captured and locked up in Loh Fah Kongsi on 27.3.37
As I was passing Loh Fah Kongsi on that day I heard shouts of
“He is a is traitor". I was then seized and locked up by men from that Kongsi.
Whilst I was in confinement I witnessed several meetings held in the Kongsi. At every meeting three persons presided:
1. Lee Thiam, a one armed man.
2. Ku Wui of Loh Fah Kongsi
3. Name unknown
I also saw one of the overseers named Yap Moh Lin frequenting this kongsi. I overheard Yap Moh Lin advise the committee on how to frame their demands to the company and how to resist the police. He suggested that a gong be used to call all to arms. The committee were under the impression that there would only be 100-150 police and that 600-700 could easily overcome this small force. All workers were ordered to keep a weapon by them when they went to bed so as to be ready to resist the police when they arrived.
The head of the Workers’ Detective Department was Yap Kim Yun a man in the east Mine office. Chin Taam, a lintel worker, was head of the militant corps.

FEDERATED MALAY STATES POLICE. ADUAN
SAKSI

ORANG KENA TUDOH.*
PERCHAKAPAN DALAM PEMEREKSAAN.
laki-
No. Report Rumah Pasong
jperempuan
Perchakapan bagi Nama bapa
Bangsa Tempat di-peranakan
Umor tahun. Kerja dudok di
Di-terima oleh di pada 19 , jam
Jurubhasa deripada kepada
kata-nya

-2-

The other two locked up with me are:
1. Ho Yew, an underground worker. He was locked up because he refused to take part in the demonstration. He was arrested between 3 and 4 p.m. on 26.3.37.

2. Liow Kee. He was arrested because he was suspected of being an informer. This was last night.

A fourth man was arrested yesterday and locked up in Chang Kiow kongsi. He is Liow Lin. He was taking tea in the village yesterday when a procession of workers passed through. He remarked, “are these people robbers?” He was immediately seized and locked up.

Before me,

Sd. C. R. Morrish

FEDERATED MALAY STATES POLICE.
FEDERATED MALAY STATES POLICE. J
INVESTIGATION DIARY IN REPORT No.
Extract of Mr. Tidy, O.S.P.C.U.S.s Diary...Station.
Date.
Diary No.
Particulars.23.3.37 2. proceeded to T.M.Station to phone the O.C.P.D.Rawang. On arrival found C.P.O.Selangor on the phone asking for me reporting that a European had been molested on the mine and that it looked as if trouble was brewing. Ascertained that the O.C.P.D.Rawang was not available on phone. C.P.O. to send 25 ranks to meet me at Rawang Police Stn where I would pick them up and proceed to the Mine.
3. Left T.Malim at 8.45 p.m. and arrived at Rawang at 10 p.m.
 Saw the O.C.P.D. Mr. Harrison who stated that he had
 ascertained that the European said to have been molested
 was all right, that he had walked into a meeting of miners who 
 had turned him away. That the O. C. S. Batu Arang reported
 that the meeting was some 800 strong and had since dispersed
24.3.37 8. Mr. Morgan reported that on his way to power-house at 4.30 a.m. saw several Chinese going along road armed with sticks and iron bars. I and Mr. Harrison too saw these men but only from a distance. They apparently did not interfere with anyone. Obviously armed pickets.
9. From 5 a.m. to 6.30 a.m. general rounds in vicinity of power house. At 6.30 a.m. about 25-30 Chinese passed by along road in front of power station. All armed with sticks (changkol handles) and iron bars. One possessed a hammer. Several on passing immediately in front of police kept arms slightly hidden but others were quite brazen. All proceeded along road towards the kongsi house. These are probably the same persons seen by Mr. Morgan.
10 Saw Bellamy who states he will be in position to inform me of conditions by about 7.30 a.m. when all should normally be working. At present everything points to a strike, especially by the underground and open-cast workmen. At about 3.a.m. saw Robbins who states most men are out.
11 At about 8.15 am. phoned O.P.O. and gave him position to date. Whilst phoning local phone call received to say water supply cut off, pumps obviously not working, suspected that pickets have intimidated the men at the reservoir as they have also done at various parts of the Mine. Informed C.P.0. Returned to power- station.
12 On return saw Robbins and informed him of arrangements. Robbins tells me that a meeting has been arranged at the Kongsi house at 1 p.m. and that he is attending with the Chinese Consul. This meeting has been arranged without my knowledge. So far meetings had been deemed inadvisable until we had sufficient force present in case of disturbances. To this end the Asst. Protector of Chinese had been turned back, on instructions of C.P.O. that morning when on his way to the Mine.
15 Spoke with C.P.O. and informed him of position. Added that I understood that strikers had blocked the road near railway crossing with long heavy logs and road said to be impassible.

INVESTIGATION DIARY IN REPORT No.
2
Station.
Particulars.
Mr. Teal of Power station is going that way and will confirm, C.P.O. states regiment expected to arrive at 6 p.m.
16 Meeting at kongsi commenced at 1 p.m. and ended at 1.30 p.m. Mr. Robbins said to have a list of demands, some 23. At 2 p.m. a few fitters reported they had been intimidated and in consequence desired to stop work. Therefore only staff of power station now at work.
19 At about 3 p.m. a procession of strikers left the kongsi
 houses and marched round here returning to kongsi. A banner
 was carried showing in Chinese characters the 23 demands.
But one or two men seen with sticks but procession orderly
 and I deemed it inadvisable to interfere. Several members 
seem to make themselves rather prominent, Mr. Harrison spotted
3 or 4 who were prominent in the last November strike.
Procession finished by about 4 p.m.
21 At 5 p.m. a Tamil coolie came to power station and reported of a Chinese detective having been detained and beaten up in a kongsi. With Mr. McLean and 20 Police armed with rifles. and batons proceeded to kongsi. Found a crowd of some 100 or so outside the particular kongsi, most armed with sticks and iron bars. Noticed crowds at kongsis. Police available totally inadequate to deal with crowd if any force attempted by us. Decided to leave Police in buses ready for action if necessary. With Mr. McClean approached the kongsi. Left Mr. McClean hard by whilst I went up to kongsi. Prevented by mob from entering the kongsi. Endeavoured to obtain release of the detained man by persuasion. Some 2-3 were apparently headmen but they would do nothing unless approved by the mob to whom my request was put with aid of a megaphone by one of the headmen standing on a table in front of kongsi. After much argument was allowed to peep through a window and saw Chinese detained in a small room, the kongsi clerks office. Was pushed away before I could speak to him but my view satisfied me that the man was not from Rawang. Crowd demanded appearance of the Manager (Mr. Robbins) when they would decide on release of the man or otherwise. Leaving Police under Mr. McClean with instructions not to do anything (unless attacked) until I returned, went off to get Robbins. Found latter at Guest House. Phoned K.L. and recorded numbers and names of the K.L.Detectives here on duty. Returned to kongsi with Messrs. Robbins and Russell. After talking with crowd again went to window of room, saw the detained man and after brief questioning ascertained he was not a detective but a Mine employee suspected by the mob of being a detective. At the orders of the mob I left the vicinity of kongsi and stood some 15 yards distance whilst Messrs. Robbins and Russell spoke with the headmen. A minute or so later Messrs. Robbins and Russell joined me saying the man was one of their employees, that he was all right and that Police need take no further action about him for the present.
Mr. McLean reports of 20 odd Chinese, armed, going down main road in direction where Regimental Bus had broken down
INVESTIGATION DIARY IN REPORT No.
3
Station.
Particulars.

Instructed McLean to proceed with men in buses and take all necessary action if party met and showed fight. Shortly after McLean reported lorry had come in and party not seen
29 Returned to power station. Colonel Bruce, C.0. of Malay Regiment arrived. In conversation related of events and position to date. Whilst talking another procession started and within a few minutes it was in vicinity on road near power station. Strength about 4-500. Noticeable that procession was headed by Tamils and Malays. They all carried poles, changkol handles whilst a number of Chinese carried similar weapons and iron bars. Most of the Tamils looked rather sheepish and were possibly, highly probable, intimidated into joining and arming. Passers-by were called upon to join and were pushed into the procession. Talking with Col Bruce it was decided inadvisable to order its dispersal at present whilst reasonably orderly.
35 At about 11 a.m. a rumour was received that picketing continued and that 4 Chinese, armed with pistols, had visited 0.C.9 and intimidated the men to stop work. Following enquiries it was reported that 6 Chinese had visited O.C.9 and that, only one had a pistol. Clerk to get hold of a Tamil who had actually spoken with the picket.
36 Sgt. of Stn. reports that two Chinese were at Rawang Station reporting of visit of about 100 Chinese to their property (Kundang Tin) and having intimidated the workers into stopping work. Instructed O.C.Detectives be informed. Later revisited the station, learned that O. C. D. away from K.L. Harrison spoke with Sgt. and later reported that picket had visited yesterday and were now away. Picket believed to have come from the Mine.
38 At about 12.30 p.m. Mr. Robbins reports of suspected attack
 on Power Station at 2 p.m. Informant is a peon to Mr. Teal.
Saw informant, states that he overheard same in coffee shop; 
Tamil coolies talking. Questioned, states that Chinese coolies
 of Chang Tai Lee's kongsi are supplying food free to all Tamil
l about as an inducement to remain out. Actual words pertaining
 to an attack are very vague. I suspect a procession at 2 p.m.
 Consulted with Capt. Andre, no chances to be taken and
 arrangements made in case of attack. Barbed wire fences erected
 around Power station and Police Reserve to stand by. In view
 of procession turning into an attack it is decided that Police
 shall block the road and call upon the mob to disperse and if
 necessary carry out a baton charge to effect required result. 
Two platoons will be in close support should Police fail. 
Capt Andre desires presence of Magistrate and we go over to 
see Mr. Grice, P. of C., who is outside the line Office. Mr. 
Grice of opinion we should not stop the procession unless by 
its behaviour it becomes an unlawful assembly. Decide to 
await events, as negotiations are in progress it is unlikely that 
procession will take place.
40 In vicinity of power station until 2.30 p.m when emissary seen to go to the Mines office with the reply from strikers.

INVESTIGATION DIARY IN REPORT No.
4
Station.
Particulars.

Proceeded to mines office and learned at 4 p.m. that the
 strikers rejected the Company's offer and required, their
 unconditional agreement to the original terms. Messrs.
 Robbins and Russell are bitterly disappointed at the 
complete breakdown of negotiations.
41 At 5.10 p.m. news received of an armed gang, 60 in number have gone to O. C. 4 to attack the Sikhs working the pumps. At 5.10 p.m. Lieut. Richardson and Mr. Harrison leave with 15 police and a platoon of regiment to aid of the Sikhs.
42 About 5.20 p.m. was informed at power station that a mob of 200 or so had made a rush on the Regimental post which was protecting the Fan. That the mob on finding the post well wired in and all men ready, including 2 Lewis guns, stopped about 20 yards distant and dispersed. With Capt ...... and
2 lorry loads of soldiers visited post and found all well and post quite happy.
Spoke with Capt. Andre on the position which is getting ugly and feel it would probably be best to make a raid on the kongsi houses especially the headquarters and arrest the ring-leaders. Capt. Andre suggests we go into the matter at the Police Station,
Learned on return of the party under Lieut. Richardson and Harrison. Investigation showed that a party of 20 Chinese did visit the Sikhs at Midday but no sign of the alleged 60.

Page 1

Sel.Sec 288/1937 Sel G 288/1937 Enclosure 1A
Ulu Selangor Inquest No 2/37.
In open Court at Rawang,
This 6th day of May, 1937.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
Enquiry into the cause of death of an unknown
male Chinese, aged 20 years, who died as a result of a
revolver shot wound, on 27.3.37 at 5.30 A.M. at Batu Arang.
Arthur Harold Dickinson, affirmed states in English:-
I am C.P.O., Selangor. On the evening of 24th March, 1937, I received information that persons were being unlawfully restrained in stone kongsis of the Malayan Collieries, at Batu Arang. On 25.3.37 I was informed that a case of gang robbery had also occurred against an Indian by persons believed to be inthose kongsis. At 3 A.M. on 27.3.37 I went with a body of Police numbering 225 officers and men to Batu Arang by motor transport, to raid the stone kongsis. The party of Police disembarked short of the Collieries, about ¾ mile short of the stone kongsis and proceeded on foot
to the kongsis. We arrived there at about quarter past five. Accompanying the uniformed Police were the
Detective Officers and their men. They, supported by a small party of Police, entered the kongsi area first.
The uniformed Police under my control were immediately behind them. The Detective party had proceeded towards
their objective. The remainder of the Police were well in between the kongsis when a whistle was blown and a gong
was sounded. Immediately a large number of Chinese poured out from the various kongsis and attacked the

Page 2

Police. It was dark night; there was a certain amount of light from the lamps and it was approaching dawn. I saw
Chinese armed with iron bars, poles, axes and also saw some men armed with hatchets as opposed to axes, similar to those produced in Court and also changkol handles. The Police were split up unto parties each under an Officer. Each party had its definite objective. Each party proceeded to its objective and drove back into the kongsis persons who had emerged to attack the Police. By Court - There was sufficient light to
distinguish objects. There were quite a number of lamps alight in the kongsis. I was also in very close
proximity to the rioters. By Police. The object of the raid was, to liberate persons unlawfully confined in the kongsis.
Before me,

Sd. Hamzah,

Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 3

Roger Owen Davis, affirmed states in English:-
I am Officer-in-Charge, Detectives,
Selangor. At 3 A.M. on 27.3.37 I left Kuala Lumpur with a party of Police under the Chief Police Selangor,
last witness. We arrived at the gates of Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang at about 5 A.M. According to instructions I had received I accompanied a party of uniformed Police and Detectives to Loh Fah Kongsi, one of the stone kongsis. Other parties of Police had been assigned to the other kongsis. My instructions were that when we got to the kongsi we were to prevent any of the occupants leaving the kongsi and then search the kongsi for certain people, who were said to have been detained there against their will. The whole parties of Police started to march in to the Malayan Collieries towards the stone kongsis. The party of Police who were to go to the Loh Fah Kongsi marched at the head of the column of Police. As the column of Police reached the stone kongsis, everything there was quiet, but there were lights on in some of the kongsis. I saw a Chinese walking along the road in front of the column of Police, carrying a long changkol handle. The Loh Fah Kongsi is on a road to the right. As the party of Police approached the Loh Fah Kongsi I saw between 10 and 15 Chinese standing at the entrance to the kongsi. I noticed that a number of them had changkol handles, similar to the one produced in Court. We went into the kongsi and as soon as we got inside the main hall we were attacked by a number of Chinese there. I then noticed that in addition to changkol handles, some of produced them had axes, some long, some short, similar to those in Court; After about 2 minutes we succeeded in driving roughly half of the Chinese into bed rooms in the kongsi
Page 4
where they were detained. The other half made their escape through the back door of the kongsi. In the
corner of the main hall of the kongsi I saw a small cubicle which was pad-locked from the outside.
I wrenched off the padlock and found three Chinese sitting on a bed inside the cubicle. The cubicle was about 10
feet square. These three people started to tell me that they had been imprisoned there for some days. While
they were speaking I heard a number of revolver shots from outside Loh Fah Kongsi. I went to the door and I saw
some 20 or 30 Chinese, all armed in some way, retreating from the door of the Loh Fah Kongsi towards two other
kongsis at the junction of the main road. I saw two Sikh constables arrest one of these Chinese at the back
corner of the Chan Koh Kongsi. The arrested man was struggling and they started to pull him back towards the
Loh Fah Kongsi. When they were about five yards from the back of Chan Koh Kongsi I heard somebody call out "pisau". I took this to mean that the man who was struggling was armed with a knife. I went towards the spot where the struggle was taking place. Two Detectives were ahead of me. When we were about 15 yards from the spot where the struggle was going on, a bunch of some seven Chinese ran round the front corner of the Chan Koh Kongsi and ran towards the two constables who were struggling with the prisoner. They were all carrying some kind of weapons. When they were within about five yards of the constables I saw both detectives fire with their revolvers. I cannot say exactly, four or five shots were fired. One of the crowd of Chinese that were coming on collapsed on the five foot way at the end of Chan Koh Kongsi. The others retreated round the corner towards the front of the kongsi. I could not see whether any of the others were hit or not. I cannot say who the detectives were. Away from the
Page 5
doorway I could distinguish figures only. I went across to the five foot way of Chan Koh Kongsi and had just time
to see that the man who had collapsed had been wounded in the left thigh - I think it was the left thigh. Before
I could make certain I was called back to the Loh Fah Kongsi. Some 10 minutes later I returned to the Chan Kah Kongsi. I then found that the man who had been wounded in the thigh was sitting at the doorway of thekongsi, and that a second man was lying dead under a tree in front of the kongsi. He was about 10 yards from the front corner of the kongsi just on the edge of the main road. I saw this man had a shot wound through the chest. As soon as it was daylight I gave instructions that all the weapons found on the scene and in the kongsis should be collected. All the weapons collected are now in Ex.A. Court - Ex."A". Later I received a photograph of the man who was killed, with a view to finding out his name. I have shown his photo to over 100 persons who were living in those kongsis, but none of them has been able to identify him. The photo was taken after death. I did not hear a gong sounded, but among the articles collected was a piece of piping which was hanging on a tree in front of one of the kongsis on the left of the main road. Ex."Al" is the piping. There was an inscription in Chinese on it in chalk. The inscription was to the effect "if nothing is happening the gong will not be rung, if the gong is rung, all must come". I read and speak Chinese. "When we arrived at the Collieries there was no noise, but there were lights in some of the kongsis.
By Court. I assume the men who fired the shots
were detectives, because they came with me from the party of Police at Loh Fah Kongsi and they were not in uniform. They were dressed in a dress which detectives

Page 6
most commonly use.

Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 7

David Wallace Yates, affirmed states in English:-
I am Assistant Officer-in-Charge,
Detectives, Selangor, stationed at Kuala Lumpur. On morning of 27.3.37 I accompanied the Police party under the 1st witness to Batu Arang. We arrived about 5 A.M. I was instructed to accompany second witness and a party of Police to the Loh Fah Kongsi. We marched into Batu Arang. 2nd witness, myself and other officers in front, then a party of about 20 uniformed Police and at the back a party of detectives. Just before we reached the road turning to Loh Fah Kongsi, I heard a gong being struck from the far end of the kongsis. It was only struck once, rather softly. As we approached the Loh Fah Kongsi I noticed that the lights in the kongsi were on. They were electric lights. About a dozen Chinese were standing in the entrance to the kongsi. There were sleeping quarters on both sides of the entrance. As we entered the kongsi these people ran out and attacked us. I noticed that several of them were armed with changkol handles. I went into the room on the right of the kongsi and I saw 3 or 4 Chinese climbing out of a window at the far end, that is the main road end of the kongsi. While I was in this room I heard a revolver shot from
outside. I then went back to the entrance hall and Detective Sergeant 80 came up and informed me that the
detectives were being attacked in the rear by coolies armed with knives. (Identified Det.Sgt.Gan Chai Lye). This Det. Sergeant had been hit on the side of his neck. There was a large reddish mark. I then went to the door of the Loh Fah Kongsi. I went outside and I saw two Indian P.C. s struggling with a Chinese in the middle of the road just outside Loh Fah Kongsi.

Page 8

They appeared to "be trying to drag the man back to Loh Fah Kongsi.    I then saw five or six Chinese come from thedirection of the Chan Koh Kongsi, which is on the main road just past the entrance to Loh Fah Kongsi. I thought they were going to rescue the Chinese who was struggling with the two P.C.s.   I went towards them. I then heardsome revolver shots coming from somewhere behind me. One of the oncoming Chinese fell down. The others immediately ran away.   I did not see Mr. Davis.   I then went back to Loh Fah Kongsi.   Later I went to the front of the Chan Koh Kongsi and saw a dead Chinese lying under a tree. There was another Chinese in the door of Chan Koh Kongsi, who appeared to have been wounded.    I then received instructions from the 2nd witness to inspect the revolvers and ammunition of the detectives who took part in the raid.   I found that 9 revolver shots had been fired. The Detect. Sub-Inspector (identified Ng Shak) fired once; Detective 207 (identified Saw Kim Fook)fired once;  Detec. 82 (identifies Hing Soon Poh) fired once; Detec.Sergt,210 (identifies Tan Fook) fired twice; Detective 58 (identifies L0h Sang) fired twice and Detec.141 (identifies Lee Ee Meow) fired twice.    I ascertained that by examining their revolvers and counting their ammunitions. Det. Sergt. 80 handed me a three-edged file which he said he had found at the end of Chan Koh Kongsi, where I had seen a man collapse.   Ex."A2" is the file.

Before me,

Sd.  Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 9

Richard Henry Harrison, affirmed states in English:-

I am A.C.P. and O.C.P.D.Rawang. On 24.3.37 at 3 A.M. I went to Batu Arang.   I remained there until after the 27th.   On 24.3.37 at 5 P.M. I accompanied Mr. Tidy, O.S.P.C., to the stone kongsis.  Reason for me going there was to ascertain whether a man alleged to have been arrested by the strikers was a detective.   The coolies employed on Batu Arang went on strike at 6 A.M. on 24.3.37.   When we arrived at the kongsis I noticed that the majority of the coolies there were armed with kandar sticks, changkol handles and bars of iron.   It was only after a considerable amount of trouble we were as allowed to see the person who was restrained there.   It was impossible to attemptto release him as the police at our disposal was not sufficient to deal with any situation that may have arisen.  The attitude of the coolies was one of extreme belligerence.  On 25.3.37 a report of gang robbery was made at Batu Arang Police Station.   Complainant was a Tamil.   Report No. 89/37, Batu Arang.    That robbery took place at the stone kongsi area at Batu Arang. On 24th, 25th and 26th I received numerous reports of armed strikers initimidating essential workers.  I refer to men on water pumps and fans and in particular, the safety men.   On the morning of the 27th at 5.30 A.M. I accompanied a company of the Malay Regiment to within about 100 yards of the office end of the stone kongsi area.   We halted there and awaited the arrival of a party of Police who were coming in at the other end with the first witness.   While we were waiting there I noticed people wandering from kongsi to kongsi.   I saw one man carrying a pole.  I could hear coming from the kongsis the noise of poles being dragged along the concrete

Page 10

floor.  At about 5.30 A.M. I noticed a party of Police come into the kongsi area from the far end.  As soon as they arrived I heard a whistle being blown and a moment later I saw a Chinese go to the front of the first kongsi on the right as I was going in.  I saw him in the light of the kongsi door beating a gong.  As soon as this gong was struck coolies poured out of all the kongsis within my view, and ran in the direction where I had seen the Police.  I heard several shots.  With Mr. Tidy and a platoon of the Malay Regiment with fixed bayonets we moved through the kongsi area to establish contact with the Police under Mr. Dickinson.  When I arrived at the cross roads to Loh Fah Kongsi, I saw numerous skirmishes going on on the road leading down to Loh Fah Kongsi.   I saw two Indian Constables endeavouring to arrest a Chinese about 5 yards to the side of and behind the Chan Koh Kogsi, The Chinese was on the ground and was struggling with the constables.  While they were doing so I saw between 5 and 7 Chinese rush round the front of the Chan Koh Kongsi in the direction of the two constables.   I was carrying an electric torch and in the light of this torch, I noticed one of the 5 to 8 Chinese was carrying an axe similar to is the one I am holding – Ex. "A3".  When these Chinese were about 5 yards away from the constables still running towards them, several shots were fired. I cannot say how many, but not more than five, or less than a three.  One of the Chinese dropped on the five foot way at the side of Chan Koh Kongsi.  The others retreated towards the front of Chan Koh Kongsi.   As they passed the corner of the kongsi I noticed one of them stagger and and go down on his face.   The corner I mean is the corner nearest the junction.   For about the next 10 minutes I was occupied in various places in the kongsi area.   I then went back to the front of the Chan Koh Kongsi.

Page 11

In the doorway of the kongsi I noticed a Chinese unconscious with head injuries and a bullet wound in his left thigh.    Midway between the end of the kongsi and the door of the kongsi, I saw another Chinese who was dead with a bullet wound going from left hand side of his chest, through his body to the right hand side of his chest.   The entry of the bullet was on the left hand side of his chest.   I moved both the deceased and the other Chinese to Batu Arang hospital.   I later arranged for the removal of the dead Chinese to Serendah Hospital for post mortem examination.   While the detectives and constables were gathering up Ex."A"  I noticed  three instruments in particular, which could not be called working instruments.   They are a sort of pike - Ex."A4".    I arranged for a photograph to be taken of the deceased man.  Some days after the strike I went to Batu Arang and made enquiries as to the identity of the deceased.   I could not find any body who knew him.

There is a main road leading from the entrance of the mine to the office.   Going along that road, the first kongsi on right is Lee Wee and Yap Poh in one.   The second kongsi is Lee Yee and Yap Fook.   The 3rd kongsi is Chan Koh  and Lee Choy.  The 4th kongsi is Chin Fook.    On the left, coming in from the entrance, the first two kongsis are Chan Thye Lee kongsis. The  next is Wong Ah Yee, the next is Yap Fong and the last is Hiew Yew.   The gong was beaten in front of the Hiew Yew kongsi.  All these kongsis front on to the main road.   About half way through, that road is intersected by another at right angles between Yap Fook and Chan Koh kongis.   Walking down that road between Yap Fook and Chan Koh kongsis, the first kongsi on the

Page 12

right is the Loh Fah Kongsi.   The next kongsi on the right is Ho Pack and Choo Soong kongsi.   On the opposite side of the road there are two kongsis, both Chan Thye Lee.   The incident which I described in regard to the shooting of the Chinese, took place between the rear corner of Chan Koh kongsi and the front nearest corner of Loh Fah kongsi.

Before me,

Sd.  Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 13

Kung Kuan Kun, affirmed states in English:-

I am Detective Inspector, stationed in Kuala Lumpur.  On morning of 23.3.37 at 3.30 A.M. I left Kuala Lumpur accompanying the C.P.O.   We arrived at gate of Malayan Collieries at about 5 A.M.   We were split up into parties.   I was one of the party instructed to go to Loh Fah kongsi.   We proceeded towards Loh Fah kongsi.   Before we reached Loh Fah kongsi I saw a crowd of Chinese standing at the entrance.   They were armed with axes and sticks similar to those produced in Court. When we reached the door of the kongsi the Chinese attacked us with poles, sticks and axes.   There was a struggle in which I joined.   During the struggle a Chinese rushed at me armed with a short axe, similar to Ex. A3. Two P.C.s were following him and trying to knock the axe off his hands.  The Chinese and the P.C.s struggled and the Chinese was overpowered.   While struggle was going on I heard shouts in Chinese - "Tha Hi" meaning "to strike". I went to the door of the Loh Fah kongsi.   I saw roughly 10 to 15 Chinese rushing at the door.   Later on I heard a number of shots being fired.   I do not know who fired them.   Before the shots were fired there were skirmishes going on on the road.    I cannot identify those who took part in the skirmishes because of semi-darkness.   The situation gradually got under control and the raid proceeded.

Before me,

Sd,  Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor

6.5.37

Page 14

1.50 P.M.

Mehar Singh s/o Jeon Singh, affirmed states in Punjabi-

I am Bugler 1110, stationed at Seutal, Kuala Lumpur.   On 27.3.37 at Batu Arang I was in Section No. 8.  When we arrived at the front of a certain kongsi I saw 30 to 40 Chinese.   The kongsi was No. 77 (Loh Fah Kongsi.Intd. H.b.A.)  Those Chinese were armed with changkol handles, knives, axes and pick-axes similar to Ex.A.   Pick-axes were similar to Ex. "A5". When Police attempted to enter kongsi they were prevented from doing so by 30 - 40 Chinese.   Chinese from other kongsis came and a fight between Police and Chinese took place.    Near food tables at entrance to kongsi I saw P.C. 298 (identifies Kartha Singh).  I saw a Chinese aim two blows at P.C. 298.   Both blows struck the P.C. onthe elbow and one on his breast pocket in which there was a pocket book.   P.C. 2495 (identifies Abdul Gafoor) andP.C. 1729 (identifies Mehar Singh) came.   P.C, 2495 closed with the Chinese and caught him by the waist. P.C. 1729 snatched away the axe from the Chinese.   I helped to overpower the Chinese.   The Chinese was hand-cuffed and taken prisoner.   At the same time as this occurred I heard pistol shots outside the kongsi.   I did not know who fired them.   I remained in the kongsi for one hour guarding people who had been arrested.   When I came out the situation was normal.

Before me,

Sd.  Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.

6.5.37.

Page 15

Meftar Singh s/o Santa Singh, affirmed states in Punjabi.
I am P.O. 1729, stationed at High Street. On 27.3.37 I went to Batu Arang and was in section No. 8, Our orders were to surround kongsi 78 but got only as far as Kongsi 77. When we arrived at kongsi 77 I saw a crowd of Chinese armed with axes, crowbars, I then heard a gong being beaten. When gong was beaten coolies from kongsis 75, 76, 77 and 78 rushed towards us. They were armed. They attacked Police and a fight started. I saw a Chinese attack P.C. 298 with a hatchet. P.C. 298 was struck, first blow on his right elbow and second blow on his right breast pocket. The Chinese ran into kongsi 77. I chased him and P.C. 2495 caught him by his waist. The Chinese raised his axe and tried to strike P.C. 2495. I snatched away the axe. I retained the axe. Ex."A6" is the axe. Later I handed the axe to O.C.P.D. Rawang. While all this was going on I heard a burst of revolver shooting outside. I cannot say who fired the shots. For the next hour I was in the kongsi guarding people. When I came out the situation was normal
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37

Page 16

Abdul Gafoor s/o Maula Bux, affirmed states in Punjabi:-
I am P.C. 2495, stationed at Central Police Stations, Kuala Lumpur. On 27.3.37 I was in section No. 8 at Batu Arang. Our intention was to surround kongsi No. 78, but when we got to kongsi 77 there was a crowd of Chinese armed with iron bars etc., outside the kongsi. A fight started between the Police and the Chinese. I heard a gong beaten but at the time I was away from the kongsi. When gong was beaten a lot of Chinese gathered and came near the kongsi. I saw a Chinese striking at P.C. 298 with an axe. He struck three or four times. The Chinese then entered kongsi 77 and I ran after him. In the kongsi I caught hold of him from behind. While holding him I held his arms in which was the axe. P.C. 1729 snatched away the axe. I heard then shots being fired outside the kongsi. I was on guard in the kongsi and did not know what happened outside.
Before me, Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 17

Kartar Singh s/o Samoond Singh, affirmed states in Punjabi:-
I am P.C. 298 stationed at High Street, Kuala Lumpur. I was at Batu Arang on 27.3.37. in section No. 8. When we arrived in front of kongsi 77 there was a large crowd of Chinese armed with weapons similar to Ex.A. They were in front of kongsi 77. I saw O. C.D. When he tried to enter kongsi the Chinese attacked him. One of the Chinese, armed with an axe attacked me. I can identify the axe. Ex. A.6 is the axe. He struck me four times. The blows struck me; first blow on right breast pocket in which I had a pocket book. The book was cut a little. The shirt was alsocut. I got wounded on the chest.(shows scar. Intd.H.b.A.} The shirt and the pocket book are in the possession of
the O.C.P.D.,Central Police Station, Kuala Lumpur. A number of P.C.s came to my assistance including P.C. 2495 and 1729. The Chinese was arrested. The shirt was not my shirt. I had borrowed it. While this was going on I heard shots being fired outside, but I cannot say who fired them.
Before me, Sd. Hainzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 18

Ng Shak, affirmed states in Hakka:-

I am Detective Sub-Inspector, Kuala Lumpur. On 27.3.37 I went with a party of Police to Batu Arang, arriving there about 5 A.M. I was with Mr. Davis. We went to Loh Fah Kongsi. As we passed Lee Yew and Yap Fook kongsi I heard whistle being blown from that kongsi. As soon as I heard that there were cries in Hakka from Chan Kok and Lee Choy kongsis. The cries were "All get up and fight them". I also heard gong being struck in Hiew Yew kongsi. As we reached the cross roads 5 or 6 Chinese appeared, carrying changkol handles. I spoke to them and told them that there were a lot of Government people there and told them to keep quiet. I told them we had come out to find out why some people had been detained. They did nothing, and followed behind our party towards Loh Fah kongsi. As head of our party reached Loh Fah kongsi, I heard a cry from behind. People from behind shouted out " Fight, fight". Some one shouted out from behind "I have been hit". At that moment the head of our party was just entering Loh Fah kongsi. A large crowd of Chinese came to the front of the kongsi armed with weapons like Ex. A. A crowd of Chinese at the same time came from Chan Thye Lee and Chan Kok kongsis. There were 3 crowds.- Each party about 50. The crowd behind us numbered 100 or more. I called out to them to behave themselves. They paid no heed. They attacked Police and a fight started. I had a large rotan stick in addition to a revolver. Three Chinese attacked me. They were armed with changkol handles, like one of those produced in Court. The first tried to hit me on the head and I ducked. I hit him on head with my rotan and he fell down. The 2nd man tried to hit me.
Page 19
I grappled with him. The blow hit me on my back. The 3rd man I got away from by hiding behind a constable. All this fight took place just in front of the Loh Fah kongsi, on the road. We proceeded to Loh Fah kongsi. Just as I reached Loh Fah kongsi door I heard 3 or 4 shots in the proximity of the place I had just left. At the door of Loh Fah Kongsi I saw the Assistant Protector of Chinese (Mr. Broome) trying to arrest a Chinese who was armed with a chopper. Ex."A7" is the chopper. I saw another Chinese behind the Assistant Protector of Chinese armed with an instrument similar to A2. His hand was raised as if to strike the A.P.C. I was not close enough to strike him with my stick. In order to save A.P.C. I fired one shot at the man with my revolver. I aimed at his chest. When shot went off he seemed to spin round and turn. He ran staggeringly round corner of Chan Kok kongsi and I lost sight of him. That eased the position a little. I called out to my detectives not to fire any more. At approximately the same time as I fired my shot, I heard other shots. I cannot say who fired them or what their effect was. I fired one shot. The Chinese were penned back into their kongsis. Five minutes later I noticed a wounded Chinese lying on five foot way of Chan Kok kongsi. About 15 minutes later when I passed that kongsi I saw the Chinese had gone. In front of the kongsi I saw man lying dead under a tree and a wounded Chinese at the door way. I then went back to spot where I had seen the man trying to stab the A.P.C. Det. Sergt. 80 was with me. Det. Sergt. 80 and I found Ex. A2 lying on the ground. All the weapons produced in Court were collected outside the kongsis and handed to O.C.D. I cannot say if my shot
struck the man. From the way he spun round it may be that the shot hit him.
By Court - I fired at him from a distance
from witness box to the Tamil Interpreter (about 10 feet.
 Intd. H.b.A.).
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate,;Ulu Selangor.

Page 21
Gan Chye Lye, affirmed states in Hokkien:-
I am Detective Sergeant Ho. 80, Detective Branch, Kuala Lumpur. I was at Batu Arang on morning of 27.3.37. I accompanied 2nd witness from gateway of Batu Arang to kongsi area. When we arrived at cross roads leading to Loh Fah kongsi, I saw a Chinese armed with a changkol handle, in front and at end of Wong Ah Yee kongsi. I also saw at Yap Fong kongsi 7 or 8 Chinese dressed in black, standing outside. Then I heard a whistle being blown. As I turned the corner towards Loh Fah kongsi I saw a crowd of Chinese standing in front of Chan Kok kongsi. I could not see if they were armed, because it was dark. I heard an alarm gong being beaten from direction of Lee Yew kongsi. I and my party turned towards Loh Fah kongsi. As we passed back of Chan Kok kongsi a Chinese ran from the back of that kongsi and called out "Tha" meaning "hit". He struck me on the left hand side of back of the neck with a piece of wood. I cannot recognise it. It was a heavy blow and caused me to fall down. While I was on the ground I received another blow on my right fore-arm. Someone helped me to get up. When I got up I found I was surrounded by a large number of Chinese armed with axes and sticks. I fought with them with a stick. I had a rotan stick. While I was lying on the ground I heard shots going off. I then noticed a lot of fighting going on at the mouth of the Loh Fah kongsi. I went there to render assistance. There was a considerable amount of fighting for some time and then position became normal. Detective 141 came and told me that my neck was bruised. He applied medicine on it. (Identifies Lee Ngee Meow as Det. 141). I then went out

Page 22
of Loh Fah kongsi. I was with Detective Sub-Inspector
at Chan Kok kongsi at 6.30 A.M. I was with last witness when he picked up Ex.A2 from the ground. I saw it first and pointed it out to him.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
6 . 5 . 37.

Page 23
Tang Fook, affirmed states in Cantonese:-
I am Detective Sergeant 210, Kuala Lumpur. I was at Batu Arang on morning of 27.3.37. When I arrived at Lee Yew Yap Fook kongsi I heard a whistle being blown and a gong being beaten. I was with other members of the police. We went on and when we got to end of Chan Kok kongsi, a large crowd armed with axes, poles, pickaxes came from the Chan Kok Lee Choy and Lee Yew Yap Fook kongsis. They attacked us. I heard a cry from behind. I looked round and saw last witness lying on ground. There was a Chinese in act of hitting him with a stick, a long stick. I went near, hit the man with a stick and he ran away. He was met by two Chinese coming out of Chan Kok kongsi, one armed with a pick-axe and the other with an axe. The pickaxe was similar to Ex."A7. The three of them then ran back towards the last witness and me. Detective 80 was on the ground. Apart from my revolver I had only a rotan stick. I shouted to the three men to keep off but they took no notice. When they were about 8 feet away from me I fired two shots at them. I cannot say if I hit them. The shots had the effect of turning them. They ran back to Chan Kok kongsi by the back. I heard other shots.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 24
Che' Lah, affirmed states in English:-
I am A.M.O.,General Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, I am L.M.S, Singapore. On 27.3.37 I was on relief duty at Kuala Kubu Bharu. On that day I received the dead body of an adult male Chinese aged about 30 years. Name unknown. Body was identified by P.O. 2311. I held post mortem examination same evening at Serendah Hospital. The result is recorded in Post Mortem Examination certificate, which I produce Ex"B". There was no burning powder round the gun shot wound. The injury was on vital part of the organ and death would have taken place in a minute. He could have run for 10 yards.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.

6.5.37.

Page 25

Heng Soon Poh, affirmed states in English;-
I am Detective 82, stationed at Kuala
Lumpur, I was at Batu Arang on morning of 27.3.37.
My objective was to go to Loh Fah kongsi with O.C.D. Just after turning corner towards Loh Fah kongsi I heard whistle being blown and a gong struck. When gong went about 30 Chinese came forward armed with sticks from Chan Kok kongsi side. I heard a couple of revolver shots. At the time the crowd had gone towards Loh Fah kongsi and passed me. I saw two Sikh P.C.s arresting a Chinese at back corner of Chan Kok kongsi. I was standing on road opposite corner of Loh Fah kongsi. The P.C.s were half way between me and Chan Kok kongsi. Five or six other Chinese came running round the corner of Chan Kok kongsi armed with axes and attacked the two P.C.s. They carried the axes in various ways. I went to the assistance of the two P.C.s. They were about to attack the constables. I fired one shot at them. They turned round and ran back towards Chan Kok kongsi. I fired, because in my opinion the lives of the P.C.S were in danger. I do not know if my shot took
I aimed at the chest of the foremost man.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 26
Loh Sang, affirmed states in Hakka:-
I am Detective 58, stationed at Detective Branch, Kuala Lumpur. I went to Batu Arang on morning of 27.3.37. With other detectives I proceeded to Loh Fah kongsi. While on the way to Loh Fah kongsi and were approximately at corner of Yap Fook kongsi, I noticed Det. 80 being knocked down by someone with a stick. While Det. 80 was on ground 10 or 15 Chinese armed with knives and poles came from direction of Chan Kok Kongsi and attacked me. Four or five of these detached themselves and surrounded Det. 80 while he was on ground. Some of them were armed with axes and some with sticks. I was afraid for the life of Det. 80. I shouted to the Chinese not to come nearer and if they came nearer I would fire at them. They took no notice of that but continued to advance. I waited till they got to about 4 yards from me and then I fired one shot at them. They still came on. I fired another shot. They stopped and then retreated some distance. I do not know if I hit any body. I did not wait to see but went to give assistance elsewhere. At about the same time as I fired my shots, I heard other shots on my left and on my right.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
6.5.37.
Postponed to Monday, 10.5.37.
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 6.5.37.

Page 27

Roger Owen Davis, affirmed states:- (recalled)
I am O.C.D., Kuala Lumpur. I identify 2 prints as prints of the man I saw dead at Batu Arang on 27.3.37 - Exs. 'CI and C2'. These are the prints to which I referred when I said I had shown photographs of deceased, to a number of people when I last gave evidence. I received Exs. CI and C2 from the O.C.P.D., Mr. Harrison.

Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
6.5.37.

Page 28
Richard Neville Broome, affirmed states in English:-
I am Assistant Protector of Chinese, Selangor, stationed at Kuala Lumpur. On morning of 27.3.37 I accompanied a party of Police to Batu Arang. The party was split up into squads and I accompanied the squad which was under the direction of Mr. Davis. Our objective was to go to a kongsi the first on the right down a road to the right, known as the Loh Fah kongsi. When we arrived at the cross-roads I heard a gong struck and saw 3 or 4 Chinese. We got to Loh Fah kongsi without very much opposition. When our party was about to enter Loh Fah kongsi, there was opposition to us going into it. The people opposing us were armed with weapons similar to those produced in Court. We went into the kongsi and I broke into the dormitory on the right where I thought the strike office might be. There was no sign of a strike office there. I then went back to the main entrance. When I got there I saw that a party of men armed with long poles and other weapons had come in from the rear of the Police and attacked them. Just on my left I saw a Chinese. He came in through the entrance round the back of the Police who were fighting. He had an axe. He raised it over his head with both hands and was about to bring it down on the back of a Sikh P.C. I had a riot stick. I hit him on the head with it. That put the man off his aim and the blow missed. The Sikh turned round, saw the man and proceeded to deal with him. After that I went outside to see what was happening there. It was dark. The fighting was confused. My impression was that there were a lot of Chinese coming up the road from the main road. They were attacking a certain number of detectives, who were in the road and separated from the main body of Sikh Police. I heard shots fired - I can remember about four or five.
Page29

I could not say who fired them or when they were fired. There was a knot of men at the corner of the junction. The detectives were holding them back. The detectives seemed to be outnumbered, I think I heard some shots fired from that knot of men. I noticed a Chinese armed with a parang advancing towards door of Loh Fah kongsi. I went towards him and he threw away his parang. I cannot remember having heard a revolver shot just then. After that things quietened down. As we approached there was no noise except one single stroke on the gong. It was not until we were actually in Loh Fah kongsi that fighting broke out.

Before me, Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor, 10.5.37.

Page 30 or 31
Lall Khan s/o Fateh Khan, affirmed states in Punjabi :-
I am P.G, 23ll stationed at Batu Arang. On morning of 27.3.37 at about 7 A.M. I received from
O.C.P.D. dead body of a male Chinese to be taken to Serendah Hospital. If I saw his photo I could recognise the man. Exs. CI and C2 are photographs of the man. Later on that day I was present at Serendah Hospital when Dr. Che'Lah held a post mortem examination on the dead body. I identified it. It was the same body.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 10.5.37.

Page 32
Soh Kim Poh, affirmed states in Hokkien:-
I am Detective 207, stationed in Detective Branch, Kuala Lumpur. I accompanied other Police to Batu Arang on morning of 27.3.37. I was with Det. Sergt. 80 and Detec.51. When we arrived at cross- roads in kongsi area I saw 4 or 5 Chinese standing in front of Yap Fong kongsi. They were armed with poles similar to those produced in Court. One of the men blew a whistle
and then a gong rang. Chinese poured out of kongsis shouting out in Chinese ‘Tha’ meaning 'hit' . By that time we had got down to end of Loh Fah kongsi. While there I looked towards Chan Kok kongsi. I saw a lot of people armed with axes. They were coming towards us as if they wanted to fight. I saw a Sikh P.C, He was fighting with a coolie. While he was fighting with that man I saw another coolie behind the P.C, That coolie wanted to strike the P.C. with an axe.(Shows that the coolie was holding the axe above his head. Intd. H.b.A.) I was about 20 feet away. (Points out distance. Intd. H.b.A.) I was afraid that the P.C, might be injured. I fired one
shot at the Chinese. I cannot say if I hit him. He ran away. I did not see any body else firing shots. [ heard other shots.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 10.5.37.

Page 33
Lee Ee Meow, affirmed states in Hokkien:-
I am Detective 141, Detective Branch, Kuala Lumpur. At the raid at Batu Arang on 27.3.37, I fired two shots at Chinese coolies. I saw two P.C.s on the ground and a coolie with a stick wanted to hit them. Stick was similar to those produced in Court. I was 15 to 20 feet away. The coolie was about to strike. I fired two shots in succession, rapid fire. I cannot say if my shot took effect. I aimed at his left chest, I do not know what became of the man I fired.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 10.5.37.

Page 34
Richard Henry Harrison, recalled, states on former oath:-
I identify Exs. C1 and C2 as photographs of the Chinese that I picked up dead in front of Chan K0k kongsi, on morning of 27.3.37 at about 6 A.M. I have shown these photos to numerous coolies and others at Batu Arang. I cannot find any one who can identify him. I tender a plan - Ex."F", which shows the layout of the kongsi area. I have marked on this plan Y, X & 0. Y is where I saw the first man dropped with a revolver shot. X is where I saw the man who spun round and then fell on his face. X is also the spot where I picked up the body of the dead man whose photos are Exs. C1 & C2. 0 is where I found a Chinese who was suffering from head injuries and a bullet wound through his thigh. The positions I have marked are only approximate. I have another mark P, indicating the position of a tree from which gong (A1) was hanging. The dead body was handed over to P.C, 2311. The interval between the time I saw the first man drop and the time I saw the second man drop was 2 or 3 seconds.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 10.5.37.

Page 35
Chong Ah Kow, affirmed states in Cantonese:-
I am a photographer, Rasa. On 27.3.37 I was the Police photographer at Serendah. On that day I remember taking photos of a dead Chinese at Serendah Hospital. Exs. C1 and C2 are the photos of the man. Ex.Gl is the negative of CI and G2 is the negative of C2. I made prints Exs. C1 and C2 and
handed them to Police.

Before me,

Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
10.5.37.

Page 36

Ho Yew, affirmed states in Hakka:-
I am a mining cooly employed on Malayan Collieries. I remember morning of 26. 3.37 about 9.30 A.M. I was in my kongsi. Some Chinese coolies, about 100, came and arrested me. They were armed with changkol handles, choppers, like those produced in Court. They accused me of receiving reward from Government. They accused me of being informer to Government. They took me away to the next kongsi - Loh Fah kongsi - and locked me up in a small room. They fed me with kanji, nothing else. I was locked up there one day and one night, until the Police released me. Liew Chiang. Liew Liang, Ng Kiang and Leow Kee were also confined there. (witness dentifies Liew Chiang, Liew Lian & Ng Kiang. Intd. H.b.A.) Some of the coolies treated me badly. They called me traitor and dog. They used violence to me. I was confined there against my will.
Before me,
Sd. Hamzah, Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 10.5.37.

Page 37
Liew Chiang, affirmed states in Hakka;-
I am a Clerk employed in Chin Wong kongsi at Batu Arang. On 23.3.37 at 4 P.M. I went to Loh Fah kongsi to look for a friend. Coolies in Loh Fah kongsi questioned me. They caught hold of me and assaulted me. Then they took me to a room and confined me there. I was detained there from the 23rd to the morning of 27th March. I was released by Government people. I was fed with kanji- nothing else. During the four days I was confined I was not assaulted. Ho Yew, Liew Lian, Leow Kee and Ng Kiang were also confined in that room. Ng Kiang was bailed out.

Before me,

Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor.
10.5.37.
Postponed to 20.5.37.

Page 38
Findings.
From the evidence placed before me I find that
(i) on the morning of 27.3.37 a large party of Police, headed by the C.P.O., Selangor, went out to the Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang to carry out a raid, the object of the raid being to liberate persons unlawfully confined in the kongsis on the property;
(ii) in carrying out the raid the Police met with strong armed opposition, and there was a serious fight between the Police on one side and the occupants of the kongsis on the other;
(iii) in the course of the fight nine shots were fired from revolvers, one of the shots resulting in the death of the deceased;

(iv) the deceased was an unknown adult male
Chinese, aged about 30 years.
2. The evidence is not at all clear as to the identity of the person who fired the shot that struck the deceased. From the evidence of Mr. Davis, Mr. Yates,
 Mr. Harrison and Detective 82 (Heng Soon Poh) it would appear that the fatal shot was fired by one of the two Detectives who went to the assistance of the two Sikh P.C.'s who were trying to arrest a Chinese. Of the two Detectives, it is clear that Detective 82 (Heng Soon Poh) was one. As for the other Detective, the evidence does not enable me to say who it was.
3. On the other hand, there is evidence that the Detective Sub-Inspector(Ng Shak) fired one shot at a man who was trying to stab the Assistant Protector of
Page 39
Chinese. The man seemed to spin round and ran staggeringly round the corner of Chan Kok kongsi. This may have been the man who, having been shot, got mixed in one of the crowds and was seen by Mr. Harrison to stagger and fall down on his face on the spot where later Mr. Harrison picked up the deceased. If that is so, the fatal shot was fired by the Detective Sub-Inspector. The finding Of Ex.A2 at the spot where the Detective Sub-Inspector had seen a man try to stab the Assistant Protector of Chinese confirms this theory.
Cause of Death.
Death was due to haemorrhage following gunshot-wound
inflicted by one of the Detectives taking part in the raid,

Verdict.
Death through misadventure. In view of the circumstances under which the shots were fired, I do not think that blame could be attached to any one for causing the death of the deceased.
Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 20.5.37.
The exhibits are to be handed to Police for disposal. Such of them as may be required for some case or cases connected with the raid must be preserved; the others can be destroyed,
Sd. Hamzah,
Magistrate, Ulu Selangor. 20.5.37.
(True Copy)

Magistrate,
Ulu Selangor.

20.5.37

Ulu Selangor Inquest No. 2/37.

LIST OF WITNESSES.

1. A.H.Dickinson, C.P.O. Selangor.
2. E.O.Davis, O.C.D.,Selangor.
3. D.W.Yates, A.O.C.D. Selangor.
4. R.H.Harrison, O.C.P.D. Rawang.
5. Kung Kuan Kun, Det. Inspector, K.L.
6. Mehar Singh, Bugler 1110, Central Stn, K.L.
7. Mehar Singh, P.C. 1729, High St, K.L.
8. Abdul Bafoor, P.C. 2495, -do-
9. Kartar Singh, P.C. 298, -do-

10. Ng Shak, Det.Sub-Inspector, K.L.
11. Can Chai Lye, Det. Sergt.80, K.L.
12. Tan Fook, Det.Sergt. 210, K.L.
13. Dr. Che'Lah, A.M.0.,G,H.,K.L.
14. Heng Soon Poh, Detec.82, K.L.
13. Loh Sang, Detec. 58, K.L.
14. R.N.Broome, Asst. P of C, Selangor, K.L.
15. Lall Khan, P.C. 2311, B.Arang.
16. Soh Kim Poh, D.P.C. 207, K.L.
17. Lee Yee Meow, D.P.C. 141, K.L.
18. Chong Ah Kow, Photographer, Rasa.
21. Ho Yew, Mining cooly, M.S.Ltd. B.Aang.
22. Liew Chiang, Clerk, Chin Wong Kongsi Batu Arang.

Ulu Selangor Inquest Np. 2/37.
LIST OF EXHIBITS.
Ex. "A” - a heap of implements such as axes, hatchets,
pick heads etc.
"Al - A piece of piping - used as a gong.
"A2 " - A three-edged file.
"A3" - An axe.
"A4" - Three pikes - one short & 2 long.
"B" - Report of Post Mortem examination.
“Cl" Photos of the deceased person.
“C2”
"D" - A shirt.
"E” - A pocket Book.
"F"' - A plan of the kongsi area.
"Gl" - Negative of C1,
"G2" - Negative of C2.

(Copy)

REPORT OF POST MORTEM EXAMINATION.
(Under section 330 of the Criminal Procedure Code.)
Description of body Body of a male Chinese adult, name unknown.
Apparent age 30 years

Ex."B" in Ulu Selangor

Date of post-mortem examination 27.3.37. Inquest No. 2/37.
FFor Magistrate Ulu Selangor. Inquest No. 2/37 Sd. P.B.V.Iyer,


Body identified by P.C. 2311.
Marks, &c, and appearance of body - fairly well nourished, 6.5.37
1. Abrasion marks on left side of face and left knee.
2. Circular punctured wound ½ " in diameter just above the left nipple.
3. Circular punctured wound ¾ in diameter on the right side of chest at level of the right nipple and anterior axillary line.
4. Superficial lacerated wound on the inner side of right arm 1" long.
Bight Lung. -Left Lung
Heart. - Contracted - muscles firm. Circular wounds on right ventricle and right auricle 4 - communicating.
Circular wound ½ " in diameter passing through the base of lung.
Circular wound ½” in diameter passing through the base of the lung,
Both pleural caivities filled with blood.
Liver. -
Normal - anaemic.
Sp/leen & kidneys - Normal.
Cause of death
Haemorrhage following gun-shot wound on chest.
Nature of weapon (if any)
3880—6,000—8-10-35—E 4-1 li.
Sd. Che'Lah.
Asst. Medical Officer, Kuala Kubu Baru.
(True Copy) Magistrate Selangor.

Documents in the National Archives of Malaysia transcribed using O.C.R.

STANDARD PRODUCTION HIGHER. [Articles] The Straits Times, 14 April 1937, Page 7
 UTAN SIMPAN'S PROFIT RISES $27,000. Dividend Increased From Two To Ten Per Cent. UTAN SIMPAN RUBBER CO. LTD., in common with other rubber producing companies, shows a substantial rise in profit for 1936. In 1935 the profit was $7,581 and this has risen to $34,713 in 1936. The dividend has been increased from 2 per cent to 10 per cent and the carry forward has been increased from $19,973 to $21,145. The standard production for 1937 has been increased to 617.150lb from 555.675 lb in 1934 largely on account of an area of rubber that was planted in 1927-1928. The report of the directors (Summary: profit, dividend, crop, directorate Messrs D. H. Hampshire, chairman, V.G.A. Reeve Tucker and R. C. Russell, who retires but offers himself for re election. Accounts, expenditure, balance sheet, assets, A.G.M. to be held in K.L. on April 20, acreage, capitalisation.)


• Page 2 Advertisements Column 4 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 17 April 1937, Page 2
 & Page 2 Advertisements Column 5 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 20 April 1937, Page 2
 PUBLIC NOTICES THE KAMASAN RUBBER COMPANY LIMITED. (Incorporated in F.M.S.) Notice of 27th AGM.

The Straits Times, 19 April 1937, Page 7 • 
NEW SERENDAH RUBBER TO PAY 8 PER CENT. • Crop Falls 33,000 Lb. But Price Rises 7 Cents. • A FINAL dividend of 5 per cent., making 8 per cent, for the year 1936, is proposed by the directors of New Serendah Rubber Company Ltd. This compares with 4 per cent, for 1935, • The crop harvested fell from 429,658 lb. in 1935 to 396,884 lb. in 1936, and this crop was 42,402 lb. in excess of the export allowance. • The average gross price realised rose from 17.34 cents per pound in 1935 to 24.16 cents per pound in 1936. The standard production for 1937 has been raised from 569,655 lb. in 1936 to 591,640 lb. • NEW FACTORY CONSTRUCTED. • (Summary: Report of directors, profits, dividends, acreage, crop harvested, gross price, standard production, condition satisfactory. Board consists of Messrs. D. H. Hampshire, chairman, M.J. Kennaway, R. C. Russell, and E. G. Leyne. Messrs. Kennaway and Russell retire but offer themselves for re-election. A.G.M. K.L April.27 Accounts, expenditure, capitalisation, assets dividend) • (563 words)

The Straits Times, 19 April 1937, Page 7
, & Malay Mail, Monday April 19, 1937.) Kamasan Rubber's Profit Rises By $8,592. Dividend Increased To Ten Per Cent.: Crop Lower. PROFIT earned by Kamasan Rubber Company in 1936 at $25,909 shows an increase of $8,592 on the 1935 figure of $17,317 and the dividend has been raised from 7 to 10 per cent. The crop, however, was only 235,000lb. compared with 317,400lb in 1935. Even this reduced crop necessitated the purchase of exports rights. The acreage remains at 750 acres; directors’ fees charged amount to $4,000 and the manager obtains a commission of $648. Proposal To Split Shares. The report of the directors of Kamasan Rubber Co., Ltd., states that the net profit for the year ended Dec. 31, last, was $25,909 to which has been added $12,849 brought forward, making $38,758. An interim dividend of 3 per cent. was paid in October and absorbed $7,200 and the directors propose a final dividend of 7 per cent., which, if approved, will require $16,800, leaving $14,758 to be carried forward. The planted acreage remains at 750 acres of which 19 acres are planted on Government reserve outside the Company’s titles. Standard Production. The crop harvested for the year was 235,000lb of which 18,687lb was surplus to the export allowance. This compares with 317,400lb harvested in 1935. The standard production for 1937 remains at 346,102 lb and the export allowance for the current year assuming there are no changes in the export percentages as at present known, will be 309.857lb. The report states that that the property was maintained in good condition and tapping was done on the ABC alternate daily system. It has been suggested that the nominal value of the shares in the company be altered to $1 from $2 and in order that the directors may be acquainted with the views of shareholders a form is enclosed with the report which shareholders are asked to complete. Directorate. The Board consists of Messrs. M.J. Kennaway, chairman, D. H. Hampshire, R.C. Russell and A. Beckett. The last two named retire, but offer themselves for re-election. The retiring auditors Messrs. Neill and Bell, offer themselves for reappointment. The (27th) annual meeting is to be held at the registered office of the company, No. 1 Embankment, Kuala Lumpur on Apr. 29 at 11 am. The profit earned in 1935 was $17.317 and a dividend of 7 per cent was paid. The accounts show proceeds of rubber sales, less costs of export rights, and including stock of rubber at cost of production, of $56,372; income from interest was $2,117 and miscellaneous receipts were $54. Expenditure was: - general expenditure at estate $16,461; expenditure on rubber in bearing, cost of collection and manufacture $8,546; sales charges $268; general charges at head office $2,711; directors fees $4,000; and manager’s commission $648. Balance Sheet. The balance sheet shows the nominal capital of the company at $250,000 in shares of $2 and the issued capital is 120, 000 shares which are fully paid. Other liabilities at Dec. 31, last, were: reserve account $60,085; sundry creditors $5,789; unclaimed dividends $1,326 and leave pay and passage reserve $1,720. The assets were: - property and development, buildings and factory equipment $251,002; sundry debtors and debit balances $483; stores $251; rubber in stock $4,026; investments in Government and Municipal securities $58,833; and 4,690 shares of $1 each in Bukit Rotan Hospital Association on which there is a contingent liability of 54 cents per share, at $1 and cash $25,882. The capitalization at par per planted acre on Dec. 31, 1936 was $320

The Straits Times, 22 April 1937, Page 7 Another Chairman Advocates Planting Jungle Reserves. UTAN SIMPAN PRODUCTION COSTS MAY INCREASE. ADDRESSING shareholders at the annual meeting of Utan Simpan Rubber Co. Ltd., in Kuala Lumpur, on Tuesday, Mr. D. H. Hampshire, advocated the removal of the restrictions on planting rubber in jungle reserves provided an equivalent area of old rubber was destroyed. To replant on the already impoverished soil, Mr. Hampshire said, entails large expenditure on manuring and it was advisable that the soil should be reconditioned by lying fallow for few years. Mr. Hampshire warned shareholders that some increase in costs of production could be looked for in view of the fact that increase in labourer’s wages had recently been granted. NEW FACTORY WORKING WELL. (Summary: more satisfactory profits, destroyed smokehouses, decided to build new factory and smokehouse, and install up to date machinery, installation completed by June 24. Cheaper manufacture, money spent on buildings, water supply installation, condition of estate, clearing bracken, blukar and lallang, experiment in manureing. Under present International Agreement no estate may plant virgin jungle. Land which carried rubber for many years shows signs of deterioration, soil exhausted. Land should lie fallow, alter regulations, allow estates to plant virgin jungle, if equivalent area of rubber is cut down. Production, present price satisfactory, forward sales, no questions; Mr. R. C. Russell was re-elected. Neill and Bell reappointed auditors.) (842 words)

The Straits Times, 29 April 1937, Page 7 • 
New Smokehouse Destroyed By Fire. PROPOSING the adoption of the report and accounts at the annual meeting of New Serendah Rubber Company, Ltd. in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, Mr. D. H. Hampshire, the chairman, said: — It is pleasing to be able to present to you a statement of accounts that shews a considerably increased profit for the past year’s working. The profit is more than twice as much as it was in 1935 when $18,380.53 was earned. (Summary: Interim Div 3%, final div 5 %. Balance sheet, investments, debits, advance to contractor erecting new factory. Acreage, quotas, yields, old factory built just after formation of company and machinery past all economic use. New factory, smoke house and packing shed just been completed. 5 coolies employed compared to previous 8, reduction in costs, only worked for 17 days before smoke house caught fire and was partially destroyed. Old one being re erected for use till damaged smokehouse rebuilt. Buildings and machines are latest pattern worked by electricity from Rawang Tin Fields whose transmission line passes close to factory. New office built. Land on which old factory stood sold. Estate made great progress. Thanks to manager to Mr. Hasselhuhn and secretaries Boustead and Co. Ltd. Replant small area as experiment. International relations concerning planting in virgin jungle. No forward sales. Report and accounts adopted retiring directors Messrs. R. C. Russell and M.J. Kennaway were re elected. Messrs Neill and Bell re appointed auditors. Mr. J. A. Clery addressed meeting about reducing nominal value of shares. Chairman agreed. Shareholders would be asked at extraordinary AGM to approve.) (746 words)

The Malay Mail, Friday April 30, 1937 page 5, and The Straits Times, 3 May 1937, Page 19
 Kamasan Rubber Shares

. Proposal to reduce value. Final Dividend of 7 per cent. • The twenty seventh annual general meeting of the shareholders of the Kamasan Rubber Co. Ltd., was held at the registered offices of the company No. 1 Embankment, Kuala Lumpur yesterday at 11 am Mr. M. J. Kennaway presiding. (Summary: report and accounts.. profit and loss..standard production figure unaltered..exportable quota and profits over last 2 years..cash in hand exceeded liabilities. “ In my speech last year I reminded you that it was not until the ninth quarter of the ill fated Stevenson Restriction Scheme that an appreciable rise in the price of the commodity began, and that while conditions were not altogether the same, there were indications that history during 1936 would begin to repeat itself. To the extent that for the first 8 quarters of the present restriction scheme 7d to 8d were the ruling prices which gradually advanced in the ninth and tenth to close on to one shilling that prediction may at least be said to have been partly justified”.exportable allowance.. increased crop this year.. resume interim dividends every 4 months.. “In the matter of all-in costs of dollar companies, I was interested to observe from a list dealing with 65 such companies published in June of last year by a well known firm of local brokers that, showing an all-in cost of less than 11 cents per lb., Kamasan was third in the order of merit showing 11.25 cents.” no sign of any falling off in yield.. tapping.. yield per coolie per day..Manager Mr. Crowe on leave.. estate supervised by Mr. E. J. C. Edwards.. thanks to secretaries Boustead and Co. circular wishes about share value.. report and accounts adopted dividend approved.. Messrs. R. C. Russell and A. Beckett re-elected and Messrs. Neill and Bell reappointed auditors.) •

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser , 12 May 1937, Page 3
 • $250,000 WILL CASE APPEAL. Judgment Reserved at Kuala Lumpur. (Appeal of Khoo Boo Hooi against the decision of Mr. Justice Pedlow concerning the will of Khoo Khye Cheah. Mr. P. B. Ford appeared for Mr. R. C. Russell trustee of the testator’s estate.)

The Straits Times, 19 June 1937, Page 2
, The Straits Times, 21 June 1937, Page 2, The Straits Times, 22 June 1937, Page 2 MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD. Notice of Declaration of Dividend No. 66 and Closure of Share Registers….First Interim Dividend of 2 ½ %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd., June 18, 1937

Detroit Border Crossings. Robert Cecil Russell arrived 26 June 1937 Detroit Michigan (alone) Born Surrey England, Issued Singapore F.M.S. aged 49, Occ. merchant, last perm residence Kuala Lumpur, Bro. G.D. Russell, East Grove, Lymington Hants Eng. Ever in US before ‘ Yes from 6 .1 .18 to (illegible word …FOSED.) Mother in law: Clara McColl 8130 Evernor Highway Detroit, transit 3 weeks. Ever arrested. No. Date of landing: Montreal PO 6.25.37 Name of steamship: Dutchess of Bedford. Dist marks: None. Passage paid by self.

The Straits Times, 21 July 1939, Page 13 A visit to the Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang, has been arranged for members of the Estate Asiatic Staffs Association, Selangor, on Sunday by permission of the general managers, J. A. Russell and Co., Ltd. Members are asked to assemble at Batu Arang Railway Station at 9.30 a.m.

The Straits Times, 23 July 1937, Page 12
 Labour Problems Exploited. Police Commissioner On The Strikes. THE strikes in Selangor at the end of last year are referred to by Mr. C. H. Sansom, Commissioner of Police, Federated Malay States, in his 1936 report. “ The sudden recovery from slump conditions brought in its train labour difficulties which were exploited by the politically-minded person he says. After the bad times, as has often happened before, employers and their employees had different opinions as to what was the correct share of the return of prosperity that should be given to employees. “The strike weapon was frequently employed by the labour and in November and December considerable trouble was caused in Selangor at the Malayan Collieries, Batu Arang, and at the large open-cast tin mines of the Sungei-Besi area.”

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 2 August 1937, Page 9
 and The Straits Times, 2 August 1937, Page 6
 Bakau Tin Report FINAL DIVIDEND OF 10 PE
R CENT • Bakau Tin Ltd., directors’ report and statement of accounts for the year ended June 30, for presentation at the annual general meeting of shareholders to be held at K.L. Aug. 17 states: (Summary Net profit $14,926, interim dividend 5%, final dividend 5%.) Mr. E. H.H. Everest resigned during the year upon proceeding to England on retirement and Mr. R. W. Hughes was co-opted to fill the vacancy. Mr. Hughes appointment requires to be confirmed. Mr. R. C. Russell retires by rotation and being eligible offers himself for re-election.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 12 August 1937, Page 3 • 
$250,000 WILL CODICIL HELD VALID ON APPEAL Adopted Son Shares With Four Natural Sons (From Our Own Correspondent) Kuala Lumpur, Aug. 10, & The Straits Times, 12 August 1937, Page 17
. Appeal In $250,000 Will Case Allowed. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Aug. 10. AN appeal against the decision of Mr. Justice Pedlow, who found that a codicil to a will whereby an adopted son of Khoo Khye Cheah (deceased) was made a beneficiary with four natural sons of an estate valued at more than $250,000, was invalid, was allowed yesterday. (Summary: 2 out of the 3 justices allowed appeal. Agreed K.K.C. was sane and that codicil should be allowed.)

The Straits Times, 13 August 1937, Page 12
 BATU ARANG FAREWELL. Mr. and Mrs. Teale of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., Batu Arang, were entertained by the members of the Engineering Department to a Chinese dinner followed by Ronggeng at the Batu Arang Sports Club, on the eve of their departure from the country on retirement. They are a very popular couple and a large gathering assembled to bid them farewell. They are leaving by s.s. Kaisar-I-Hind sailing from Penang on Saturday.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser , 19 August 1937, Page 6
 EDUCATIONAL TOUR OF MALAYA BY JOHORE BOYS Batu Pahat Scouts In Singapore Today THE Batu Pahat Government English School scouts, under D. S. M. C. R. Krishnan, who are on an educational tour of Malaya, arrive in Singapore today by the s.s. Ipoh from Port Dickson. (On Monday morning they visited Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang and went on to Batu Caves. (831 words) 
Visits +3 photographs)

The Straits Times, 2 September 1937, Page 7
 • AMALGAMATED MALAY RUBBER. • PROFIT NEARLY DOUBLED AT $117,052. • DIVIDEND INCREASED TO 16 PER CENT. • A NET profit of $117,952 was earned by Amalgamated Malay Estates Ltd for the year ended June 30, last. This compares with $62,671 in the preceding year. An interim dividend of 6 per cent, was paid during the year and absorbed $36,756 and the directors now recommend a final dividend of 10 per cent which if approved, will require $61,259. The dividend for the year ended June 1936 was 9 per cent. • (Summary: Final div. 10 %, report decision of shareholders and confirming order of Court, capital reduced during year. Crop, gross price, harvest, standard production under Regulation Scheme. 42 acres old rubber replanted. “ The Board consists of Messrs. D. H. Hampshire, C. J. Chisholm, R. C. Russell and A. Mustard. Messrs Hampshire, Russell and Mustard are on leave and Messrs. E.D. Butler, J. H. Clarkson and H.C. Mustard are acting in their stead. Mr. Russell retires but seeks re election.” (Neill and Bell offer themselves to be re elected as auditors.. A.G.M. K.L. Sept. 15 Balance sheet. Liabilities Assets) (447 words) 


The Straits Times, 18 September 1937, Page 7
 • "One Shilling A Pound Not An Excessive Price For Rubber." AMALGAMATED MALAY ESTATES PAYS 147 ½ PER CENT. IN 18 YEARS. "Substitutes Are Complementary Not Competitors" Says Mr. Chisholm. THE view that nine pence a pound for rubber is a reasonable price was challenged by the chairman of Amalgamated Malay Estates, Mr. C. J. Chisholm, in his address to shareholders at the annual general meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday. (Summary: price of rubber, profits, including 1920 company has paid 147 ½ %, unable to pay during 4 of these years, previous unprofitable years, adverse effects, pegging price, estates reported on by Mr. H. C. Mustard. All in costs, exportable allowance from Serdang, Jinjang opened up again after 2 ½ years, acreage planted, balance sheet, stocks, investments, profit, low costs good condition down to manager Mr. Roberts and his assistant Mr. Bogle, report and accounts approved. Mr. R. C. Russell re elected, auditors Neill and Bell reappointed.) (807 words)

The Straits Times, 21 September 1937, Page 2, The Straits Times, 22 September 1937, Page 2. MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD. Notice of Declaration of Dividend No. 67 and Closure of Share Registers….Second Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd., September 20, 1937

The Straits Times, 12 November 1937, Page 16
 King's House. Monday. Nov. 1. In the morning His Excellency presided at a Durbar held at the Astana. Klang. The following were the guests at a dinner given by His Excellency and Lady Thomas at King’s House this evening Hon. (Summary: list of guests inc. for luncheon on Thursday Nov. 4. Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Russell Mr. J. Drysdale. (759 words) 


The Straits Times, 25 November 1937, Page 13 EUROPEAN EMPLOYERS BACK SELANGOR CLERICAL UNION. Chamber Of Commerce Head Presides At Big Meeting. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Nov. 24. FULL support from the leading European employers is assured for the Selangor Non-Government Employees Association, formed at a meeting at the Town Hall, today, (Summary: provisional committee includes: R. Soosai (J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd.)

The Straits Times, 11 December 1937, Page 2, The Straits Times, 13 December 1937, Page 2, The Straits Times, 14 December 1937, Page 2 PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE. MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD. Notice of Declaration of Dividend No. 68 and Closure of Share Registers….Third Interim Dividend of 3 %... J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd., December 10, 1937

The Straits Times, 11 December 1937, Page 2
 SITUATIONS WANTED— BILLET WANTED, experienced, reliable, hardworking Conductor-clerk-dresser combined or single. Thorough knowledge, replanting and bud grafting, expert in accounts, 25 years dresser experienced in anti-malarial. Nagalingam, Sungei Tua Estate, Batu Caves.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 21 December 1937, Page 3
 & The Straits Times, 22 December 1937, Page 16
 The Malayan Collieries. Ltd., Batu Arang, are losing a very popular member of their staff on the departure for home on retirement of Mr. J. A. Porteous, their senior mechanical engineer. Mr. Porteous has been with them for over 5 years, having first come to this country as an engineer in a large tin mining concern in Perak.

Bob was asked to resign from J.A.R. & Co.,Ltd. by H. H. Robbins in 1937 and went to Canada.

SELANGOR ANNUAL REPORT 1937 10439/4 ANNUAL REPORT ON THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC PROGRESS OF THE PEOPLE OF SELANGOR FOR THE YEAR 1938. Match Factories-the Elkayes Match Factory at Port Swettenham, the only one in Selangor, is situated on the Port Swettenham- Klang road, one and a half miles from Port Swettenham, and has been in operation for fourteen years. This factory paid a sum of $93,454.40 in excise duty as compared with $108,356.80 in 1936. This decrease of $9.902.40 (is) attributable to the strike during which period the factory was closed down for a month. The timber used is all Malayan and is obtained from local contractors who operate within the district. NOTE-a general description of the processes of manufacture in the above factories was given in the report for 1936.

 

J. A. Russell and Co. Ltd. News and other Sources 1937

A second directory entry for 1937 showing Bob Russell's removal as director, no C. J. Chisholm, and the addition of A. W. Delamore. The other staff changes are the loss of L. J. Barraclough and J. B. Maggs. The Russell estate is no longer listed.

 

 

 

 

 

1937 on page 608 "Selangor General".

RUSSELL & CO., J. A.

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Buildings, Kuala Lumpur.

Telegraphic Address :-“Jar”

Codes – Private, Boe (Shipping), Imperial Combination (Mining) Acme & Bentley’s (General), Standard.

Mang. Director  H. H. Robbins

Do.                    R. C. Russell 

Director              P. B. Ford

Do.                    C. J. Chisholm                         

Staff in Alphabetical order

L. J. Barraclough  A. E, Llewellyn           

S. Brown            J. W. Lucas

J. H. Clarkson    F. J. B. Maggs 

(signs per pro)    A. J. Mearns

J. Drysdale         R. G. Pash           

(signs per pro)

General Managers & Secretaries: 

Malayan Collieries, Ltd.

Managing Agents

Boh Plantations, Ltd.

Bakau Tin, Ltd.

The Netherlands Indies Commercial Agricultural & Mining Co., Ltd.

Insurance Agencies:

Royal Exchange Assurance Corp

Queensland Insurance Co., Ltd.

Managing Proprietors :

Sungei Tua Estates, Batu Caves

Russell Estate, Tenang.

Bukit Bisa Estate, Kajang.

Sintok Mines, Kedah

All from the Singapore and Straits Directory, Fraser and Neave, 1937 SOAS archives

BAKAU TIN, LTD

Kuala Kubu, Ulu Selangor.

Agents—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur

BUKIT BISA ESTATE

Postal Address—Serdang.

Distance from Telegraph Office—Serdang,10 miles.

Distance from Railway Station— Serdang, 10 miles.

Managing Proprietors—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur

Acreage—Total 197, cultivated (Rubber) 196

SUNGEI TUA ESTATE

Postal Address—Batu Caves, Selangor.

Telephone No. 16, Batu Caves

Telegraphic Address—“Sungei Tua, Batu Caves.

Distance from Railway Station—2 ½  miles.

Distance from Telegraph office—2 miles.

Manager                                                A. H. Frugtniet

Proprietors                                             J. A. Russell & Co.

Acreage—Total 1,017, cultivated (Rubber) 1,002

RUSSELL ESTATE

Postal Address—Segamat, Johore.

Distance from Railway Station— Tenang, 3 miles.

Distance from Telegraph Office— Tenang, 3 miles.

Mng. Proprietors—J. A. Russell & Co., Ltd. Kuala Lumpur

Visiting Medical Officer—Dr. F. McIntyre

Acreage—Total 1,713; cultivated (Rubber) 1,496