The formation of Malaysia represented a significant geographical and political shift in Southeast Asia. On September 16, 1963, Malaysia was officially established when the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, North Borneo (now Sabah), and Sarawak united to form a new nation. The primary motivations for this nationalism included the desire for greater political stability and economic growth, driven by British colonial interests in the area. The merger was characterized as a solution to the challenges posed by the competing interests of regional autonomy and the pressures of post-colonial rule in the region. The leadership of Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, was key in promoting this unification, visioning a multi-ethnic state that would foster prosperity through collective governance.Despite initial optimism, tensions soon arose, particularly between Malays and the Chinese population in Singapore, exacerbated by economic disparities and differing political aspirations. Clashes intensified, and the situation became increasingly untenable, leading to harsh reprisals against perceived threats from Singapore. In August 1965, Singapore was expelled from Malaysia following a series of riots and political disagreements that illustrated the deep rifts in ideology within the federation, pursuing a separate path as an independent nation.