TRIBUTE ABDUL - Perdana Library

PAUL MARKANDAN
covered his U.S. tour in 1960 for radio and TV and in Detroit, Akron,
and New York, I watched him disarm men and women, ranging
from industrial tycoons to Wall Street giants with that dazzling
smile, and informal approach.
Tn the 'Waldorf-Astoria 1 , New York, where he stayed for about
five days, the hotel staff who came in contact with him, were
impressed by his genuine sincerity and interest - and the 'Waldorf
has in its time seen many a Statesman, King and Ruler.
At the many luncheons and dinners, he washed away whatever
misgivings the hard-boiled U.S. entrepreneur had, about investing in
Malaya and replaced it with a feeling of confidence and interest.
His boundless energy - resulting in doing more than he should,
did not go by un-noticed. For, if there is anything an American
likes - it is the recognition of effort and dedication to duty. His
willingness to understand the other man's points of view; his
ability to size up a group, an audience, a given situation; his willingness
to compromise without giving in his beliefs and convictions;
his relaxed and cheerful manner - these make Tunku Abdul Rahman,
the Smiling Diplomat.
Cynical U.S. commentators often confessed their inability to
pick any flaws in 'your Prime Minister'. It has been my pleasant
task as a broadcaster and journalist to present the Malayan picture
overseas frequently. I say pleasant, because in the context of
prevailing situations in many post-war independent countries
around Malaya, where there is strife, internal conflict and economic
bankruptcy, it is refreshing to see one's own country booming along
steadily to peace and prosperity.
"I am a man of peace" - how often has the Tunku used these
words to good purpose?
In a world, where diplomacy is playing a vital part in maintaining
peace - Malaya and now Malaysia is well equipped in its
Prime Minister to fill this role.
One of the after effects of the resurgence of Asian nationalism,
appears to be the desire of some countries to eliminate as far as
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