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Learn How to Pronounce Tunku Abdul Rahman | YouPronounce.it

How to Pronounce Tunku Abdul Rahman

Quick Answer: In Malay, the name Tunku Abdul Rahman is pronounced [ˈtuŋku ˈabdʊl ˈrahman].
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)

Meaning and Context

Tunku Abdul Rahman, often affectionately known as "Bapa Kemerdekaan" (Father of Independence) or simply "the Tunku," was the foundational architect of modern Malaysia. Serving as the nation's first Prime Minister from 1957 to 1970, he is celebrated for his pivotal role in securing Malaya's independence from British colonial rule in 1957 and subsequently forming the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. His tenure was defined by a philosophy of moderation and multiracial harmony, encapsulated in his famous advocacy for a "happy Malaysia" where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other communities could coexist. A key founding father and a prince of the Kedah royal family, his leadership during the formative years of nation-building set enduring political and social precedents. His legacy is commemorated annually on Merdeka Day (Independence Day), and his contributions remain central to the historical narrative and national identity of Malaysia.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The name "Tunku Abdul Rahman" is generally consistent in its spelling, but several common variations and errors occur. The most frequent is the misspelling of his honorific title as "Tanka" or "Tungku," often due to typographical errors or mishearing. His full name is sometimes incorrectly written as "Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj," omitting the "ibni" (son of) in his full name and title, which is properly "Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj ibni Almarhum Sultan Abdul Hamid Halim Shah." In less formal contexts, he is correctly referred to as "Tunku Abdul Rahman" or "the Tunku." Another occasional error is the conflation with later Malaysian leaders named "Abdul Rahman," such as the second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak, or the third, Tun Hussein Onn, leading to inaccurate attributions of historical events.

Example Sentences

Every year on August 31st, Malaysians reflect on the courageous diplomacy of Tunku Abdul Rahman, who proclaimed the country's independence at Merdeka Stadium in 1957.

Historians credit Tunku Abdul Rahman's visionary leadership with the successful formation of Malaysia, which brought together Malaya, Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak in 1963.

Visiting the National Archives, one can hear the iconic, gravelly voice of Tunku Abdul Rahman declaring "Merdeka!" seven times, a moment forever etched in the nation's consciousness.

His approach to governance, emphasizing tolerance and unity in diversity, established a foundational ethos that politicians still reference today.

Despite the challenges of communal politics, the Tunku's legacy as Bapa Kemerdekaan remains a unifying symbol for all Malaysians.

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