Josephine Amalanathan: exceptional headmistress, Merdeka witness
For many Malaysians, the declaration of independence at Merdeka Stadium on Aug 31, 1957 is a moment learnt through history books, old radio clips or documentaries, or family stories passed down over generations.
But for Mary Josephine Amalanathan, that bright Saturday morning lives vividly in her memory.
“I was there at Merdeka Stadium on Aug 31 to witness the historic moment of the Union Jack being lowered, and Tunku Abdul Rahman proudly raising the Jalur Gemilang and declaring our nation’s independence,” the 89-year-old, who goes by Josephine, said.
The grandmother of 10 and great-grandmother of one recalls standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of Malayans, filled with hope and pride, as they watched a new nation being born.
“I saw Tunku, Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Tun VT Sambanthan – our founding…
