Abdul Rahman (1895-1960), the first king of independent Malaya, was yang di-pertuan agong (paramount ruler) from 1957 to 1960. He commanded the respect and affection of his people, and was highly regarded as a scholar and enlightened ruler.
Abdul Rahman was born on Aug. 24, 1895, in Kuala Pilah, in the state of Negeri Sembilan. He was educated in Malaya and later at the Inns of Court, London, where he studied law. On his return to Malaya, he held several minor administrative posts. His father died in 1933, and Abdul Rahman was elected ruler of Negeri Sembilan.
In 1957, Malaya gained independence from British rule. The Conference of Rulers (nine kings of states within the Federation of Malaya) elected Abdul Rahman supreme ruler of the new nation. He was elected to a term of five years in accordance with the Malayan Constitution. He died on April 1, 1960, before completing his term of office.
