陈锡九与变迁中的华社 = TAN SIAK KEW AND THE SINGAPORE CHINESE COMMUNITY IN TRANSITION

Abstract

After the end of World War II, Singapore society experienced great changes. Along with the political awakening of the Chinese community in Singapore, it witnessed significant transformations in the society, political arena, and the education scene. As a post-war Chinese leader, Tan Siak Kew played a paramount role in the period of transition within the Chinese community. As the president of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce (1952-1953,1957-1958), Tan Siak Kew provided effective leadership in resolving problems in the Chinese community and promote activities to protect the educational and political rights of the Chinese Community. This thesis analyses the relationship between Tan Siak Kew and the Chinese community. The reorganisation and changing policies within Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce are among Tan Siak Kew's important post war involvements. This thesis also takes a step further to understand the political awareness and political changes within the Chinese community. Finally, it critically analyses Tan Siak Kew's character and leadership skills through his management of issues within the Chinese community. To date, there has been a lack of research on Tan Siak Kew and his contributions to the Chinese Community. This study aims to shed light on Tan Siak Kew's post-war contributions to the Chinese community and his key efforts in reorganising the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce. In addition, it assesses the significance of his leadership in the post-war period which witnessed vast changes within the Chinese community. The primary and secondary sources consulted include newspaper reports, meeting minutes of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) and books on post-war Singapore society and the history of SCCC. Tan Siak Kew played various roles, managed the relationship between the Chinese community and colonial government tactfully and contributed significantly to the Chinese community. This thesis hopes to provide readers a more comprehensive understanding of Tan Siak Kew and the post-war Chinese community. It aims to inspire more people to research on the post-war Chinese leaders and make further contributions to the history of Chinese Community in Singapore.