Nationalism and Indian Community in Malaya during the Japanese Occupation, 1941-1945

Authors

Ji-Eun Lee

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This study examines the transformation of the Indian community in Malaya during the Japanese occupation (1941–45), with a focus on the rise of nationalist consciousness and collective identity. Through the formation and activities of the Indian Independence League (IIL) and the Indian National Army (INA), the Indian community experienced significant organizational and ideological changes. Under Subhas Chandra Bose’s leadership, civilian participation and support for the INA increased dramatically, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Comparative analysis highlights the differing wartime experiences of Malaya’s major ethnic groups: while Malays benefited from Japanese policies, the Chinese faced harsh repression, leading to intensified interethnic tensions. The findings suggest that the Indian community’s collective wartime experiences fostered political unity and national identity, contributing to both the anti-colonial movement and the post-war restructuring of Malaya’s multi-ethnic society.

DOI

10.14456/arv.2025.7

First Page

23

Last Page

44

Recommended Citation

Lee, Ji-Eun (2025) "Nationalism and Indian Community in Malaya during the Japanese Occupation, 1941-1945," Asian Review: Vol. 38: No. 2, Article 3.
DOI: 10.14456/arv.2025.7
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/arv/vol38/iss2/3