The Tunku beyond the history books
This feature explores the personal life of Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first prime minister, through the memories of his granddaughter. It contrasts his public image as a statesman with his private life as an affectionate, nature-loving family man.
Why it matters
Humanizing historical figures provides deeper cultural context and understanding of national icons beyond their political legacies.
Tengku Qistina grew up hearing family stories from her parents, Tengku Mohamad Rizam and Tunku Noor Hayati, that revealed a very different side of Tunku Abdul Rahman. (Muhaimin Marwan @ FMT Lifestyle)
KUALA LUMPUR: Imagine growing up with a grandfather whose face appears everywhere every August and whose name is woven into Malaysia's independence. Yet at home, he is simply “Tok Merdeka”.
For Tengku Nur Qistina Petri, that was the curious reality of being the granddaughter of Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first prime minister and Father of Independence.
“It was always a bit hard - you’re trying to figure out who this person is. It’s not easy,” Qistina told FMT Lifestyle.
“Given how much my mum shared stories about him while I was growing up, you realise behind every statesman is also a father, a grandfather and a family member.”
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