Dearie:Russell Family History

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 6 January 1920, Page 26 0. TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 1920. We hear that Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co have purchased Sungei Tua Estate. (M. M) (529 words)

THE STRAITS ECHO MAIL 11TH Feb 1920 MATCHES Kobe-Jan.15.-The export of Japanese matches, particularly to India, Singapore and the South Seas, is reported to be exceedingly brisk, there being an unremitting inflow of orders from these places. A certain brand of half-inch size is especially in great demand and even second grade quality is fetching the high price of Y92 to Y93. Safety matches, the brand mostly to Chinese taste, are also unexpectedly firm in spite of the boycott; their quotations standing in the vicinity of Y64 or Y 65. On the other hand, yellow phosphorus matches are at present taking a breather at a level of Y72 to Y73. The makers of these abominations, as a matter of fact, do not care to force up the price too far, as China is the only country which takes them now and she will probably forbid them before long.-Japan Chronicle. From National Archives of Malaysia Transcribed by P.C

SELANGOR NEWS. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 14 February 1920, Page 6 0. SELANGOR NEWS. From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur. Captain Richard Falgar, M.B.E., has now been promoted to the rank of major and is in charge of No. 2 Indian base Depot at Magil in Mesopotamia. The military M.B.E. was conferred upon him in 1918 and he has been mentioned three times in dispatches since then. Major Falgar was formerly connected with the firms of T. D. Reid and Co. of Penang and J.A. Russell and Co. of Kuala Lumpur. (566 words)

Letter: from Bob Russell, Malayan Collieries Limited. J.A Russell & Co., Kuala Lumpur to The Superintendent, Chandu Monopoly, Kuala Lumpur. 14th February 1920. Sir, We have the honour to address you on the subject of the Chandu License, issued to Yap Eng Hock and another, to sell Chandu on Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang. 2. The amount allowed for 1920 is 350 Tahils or 140,000 packets, whereas in 1918 the consumption was 166,000 packets and in 1919 151,000. We are of the opinion that the quantity to be allowed for 1920 is inadequate for the demand, and would point out from 1918 to 1920 our labour force has increased from 900 to 1300 adult chinese males and will go on increasing. 3. It is imperative for us to be able to ensure a sufficient supply of Chandu for the Labour Force, otherwise the coolies will not continue working, and at the present time with a big shortage of fuel everywhere we do not wish, in the interests of both the Railways and Miners, to lose any coolies. 4. We would ask that our supply be increased from 350 Tahils to 400 Tahils and trust this will receive your consideration. We have, etc:, Per Pro J. A. Russell and Co., Sd. R. C. Russell. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia, Selangor Secretariat, File 1436 /1920. Re. Monthly supply of Chandu (prepared opium) to the licensee of the coal mines Rawang.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 25 February 1920, Page 6 and Untitled [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 26 February 1920, Page 141 Mr. A. H. Flowerdew M. Inst. M.M., F.G.S. has left the firm of J. A. Russell and Co. and has started a practice in K.L. as consulting Mining engineer.M.M.

THE MALAY MAIL. TUESDAY MARCH 2ND 1920 MALAYAN MATCHES _____________ THE STATUTORY MEETING ______________ ARRIVAL OF PLANT The statutory meeting of this Company was held on Friday, Feb. 27th, at the registered offices, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, Mr R.B.Bannon presiding. A representative of the Secretaries (Messrs. J.A.Russell and Co.) having read the notice convening the meeting and the auditors’ report the Chairman said:- Gentlemen, As you are aware this, the first or statutory meeting of this Company is convened in compliance with the Companies Enactment. The report as to receipts and payments have been certified by the directors and by the Company’s auditors-they have been for some days past in your hands and I therefore now propose to take the report as read. With regard to the statement of payments in the statutory report I would call your attention to the item: Remittance to India on account of purchase of plant and machinery $234,003,23. This sum exceeds the amount estimated in the prospectus by $9,000 and is due to the rise in Indian exchange which occurred just after the incorporation of the Company. We were fortunate, however, in anticipating further rises, and your Secretaries, in consultation with the Board, purchased rupees forward in August last, and this action saved us a loss of some $40,000, which would have been the difference in exchange on the date the purchase of the plant was completed. I think, therefore, we may say that we were fortunate in overcoming the difficulties of the sharp rise in exchange with little damage to the Company. The other item that calls for comment in the particulars of payments is Preliminary Expenses $3,285,24, an excess of $285,24 over the amount the Company agreed to pay, and this sum $285,24 has now been refunded by the vendor. You would now no doubt like to hear what progress has been made with regard to the factory and the plant. The majority of the machinery has now arrived on the site, the balance being in transit, and a contract has been let for the erection of the factory, which will be completed in four to five months, and it is hoped we will be able to commence manufacturing matches within six months. The Company experienced considerable delay in shipping the plant, due to the unforeseen shortage of rolling stock on the Indian Railways and a shortage of shipping space in Calcutta. However, as I have stated, your plant has arrived and is being assembled. With regard to the plant purchased I do not think that I can do better than to read you an extract from a report your directors have received from Mr. P.A. Morley Parker. Mr Parkes went to India to superintend the dismantling, packing and forwarding of the machinery and reports as follows:-“The plan is really two complete and independent plants each of 700 to 750 gross boxes per day of 10 hours capacity, made by the best makers of match machinery. In addition we have a complete set of auxiliary machinery, comprising log carrier, saw and veneer knife sharpeners, mills for grinding and mixing composition, machine mortars for the same purpose, paste boilers, and ventilating fans. The workshop comprises 2 radial drills, planer lathes. There is also a smith shop, and a tongueing and grooving machine for making packing cases. I consider the plant was in excellent condition when I took it over and a good bargain.” I do not think there is any further information I can give you, but if any shareholder desires to ask any questions regarding the statutory report I shall be very pleased to answer the same to the best of my ability. There being no questions, the meeting terminated with a vote of thanks to the Chairman. From National Archives of Malaysia Transcribed by P.C

SELANGOR NEWS. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 3 March 1920, Page 6 and WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 1920. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 4 March 1920, Page 156 SELANGOR NEWS. [From Our Own Correspondent]. Kuala Lumpur, Mar. 2. At the Malayan Matches statutory meeting Mr. R. C. Bannon presided and said that in view of the purchase of a plant, in India the Secretaries, in consultation with the Board last August, purchased it rupees forward, and thus saved the Company loss on exchange of $40,000. The majority of the machinery had now arrived, and the balance was in transit. The factory would be completed in four months, and he hoped to commence manufacturing matches within six months. (89 words) MALAYAN MATCHES. [Articles] The Straits Times, 3 March 1920, Page 9  MALAYAN MATCHES.( as above longer version)

THE STRAITS ECHO MAIL EDITION. Vol 18. NO 9. 3RD MARCH 1920 MALAYAN MATCHES STATE AID APPROVED. Referring to Malayan Matches Ltd, the Times says: An interesting experiment in affording a moderate amount of State support to a new industry is being made in British Malaya. The Federated Malay States have hitherto imported all their matches from other countries. A large proportion of them came from Sweden and Japan and the shipping conditions which prevailed during the war gave those countries a pronounced advantage over the British manufactured article. Recently an expert in the match industry visited Malaya and examined the forests of the country with a view to ascertaining whether they contained timber suitable and sufficient for the establishment of a match factory. His report was favourable and a syndicate of local capitalists has been formed to inaugurate and develop the industry. It is obvious that a new industry of this nature would have small chance in its early days against the rivalry of imports from countries where the trade is firmly established and where labour conditions are favourable to its growth. Those interested in the enterprise accordingly approached the Government of the Federated Malay States with a request for some support from the State during the early years of the industry. At a recent meeting of the Federal Council it was resolved to assist the newly-fledged industry by imposing an import duty during five years upon matches imported into the F.M.S. From National Archives of Malaysia Transcribed by P.C

LETTER FROM J.A.RUSSELL & CO TO DISTRICT OFFICER, KUALA SELANGOR 3RD MARCH 1920 Sir, SUGAR CULTIVATION We have the honour to address you on the subject of sugar cultivation in your District. 2. We have had this matter before us for some time and have decided that the most suitable area in the Straits is the land to the North of the Selangor River hatched in ?orange in the attached tracing. We are not certain that the land would be eminently suitable and for that purpose we would have to rentice the area and then engage a Sugar expert from Java to advise us, but before going to this expense we would like to know, if possible, upon what terms the Government would be prepared to alienate, say 20,000 acres. 3. Our proposed programme would involve the expenditure of about 7 to 8 million dollars and roughly would be as follows. 1st Year. Open up and plant 2,500 acres with the erection of machinery and buildings capable of dealing with 2,500 acres of cane. 2nd Year. Open up a further 2,500 making 5,000 in all and ?erect further machinery and buildings for the extra area. 3rd Year. If labour is obtainable, to open up 4,000 acres making 9,000 cultivated and add a further unit of machinery and buildings making a plant capable of dealing with 9,000 acres. 4th Year. Add a further 1000 acres making 10,000 in all and erect the necessary additional machinery, buildings, etc. This will complete our scheme of 10,000 acres under Sugar. 4. The reason we wish to apply for 20,000 acres is that it has been found in nearly all Sugar cane Districts that approximately only half of an area of this size is suitable for planting cane, but it stands to reason that should there be ?more than half suitable for this form of cultivation we would open the area. The 10,000 acres, we estimate to be unsuitable would be utilised in providing timber, grazing grounds for stock, etc. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants, Per Pro J.A.Russell & Co R.C.Russell From National Archives of Malaysia. Selangor 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

LETTER FROM THE ACTING DISTRICT OFFICER, KUALA SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO THE RESIDENT, SELANGOR. 4TH MARCH 1920. (1) in L.K.S. 258/1920 Land office, Kuala Selangor, 4th March 1920 Sugar cultivation on 24,000 acres of land in Kuala Selangor District.-J. A. Russell & Co. propose to apply for:- _____________________ Sir, I have the honour to inform you that I recently received a visit from a representative of Messrs: J. A. Russell & Company, Kuala Lumpur, concerning a proposal to apply for 24,000 acres of land for the purpose of sugar cultivation. 2. The proposal, I think, deserves encouragement both by reason of the magnitude of the undertaking and because it constitutes a break from the rubber tradition. 3. It appears that there are only two localities suitable for the venue of the undertaking, (a) on the bank of the Bernam River, (b) in the area north of the Tennamaram Estate. 4. Applicants are already desirous of acquiring land as far as 4 miles to the east of the Forest Belt, along the Bernam River, and I think that land along this bank will be readily in demand at any rate as far as the present District boundary. 5. North of Tennamaram Estate land is not readily in demand owing to the lack of communication and also because it is low-lying and swampy. 6. On the other hand, the low-lying flat land is exactly what is required for sugar growing. 7. Very heavy machinery is required for manufacturing sugar, and I doubt whether the promoters of this undertaking would choose a site without water or rail communication. 8. If they choose the Bernam River, the position will be isolated and a considerable distance from their centre, Teluk Anson. 9. If they choose the area north of Tennamaram Estate, they have no means of communication at present, but the probability of a road and a railway at some indefinite date in the future; if and when, these are made, the situation would, undoubtedly, be more favourable than on the Bernam River. 10. The establishment of such an industry as this in the area north of Tennamaram Estate would be of the first importance as regards the development of the Selangor-Bernam inland area, not only by reason of its own intrinsic value but also by reason of the impetus which it would give to others to bring the jungle under cultivation. 11. I understand that the promoters intend immediately to complete their plans (which include the engagement of a Dutch Sugar expert from Java), and that they hope to be producing sugar within two years. 12. I am of opinion that the promoters of this undertaking should be encouraged to take up land in the area last mentioned and that assistance should be given or promised to them in the following ways:- (a) Premium at $1/-an acre (this is the rate at which land has been granted for oil palm cultivation): with a special condition that after 20 years there shall be payable in addition to any other quit rent (presumably this will be reduced to $1/- an acre a year by virtue of the rebate) a sum of 10 cents an acre=$2,400/- a year. It is submitted that the following advantages are involved in this method:- (1) The premium is small and therefore favourable to the undertaking. (2) The premium appears small and therefore will be favourably received. (3) The Government, although it foregoes in the first ?instance a sum of $96,000/- (since $5/- an acre is the approved premium for this district) will after 60 years receive increased rent of $2,400/- a year-an increase which will ?not be felt by the industry when it has been well established. (b) A road from Batang Berjuntai to the Company’s land should be commenced immediately. (I have already inserted in the Public Department Budget an item for the construction of that road ?irrespective of the present proposal). (c) Railway communication should be promised within two years. The General manager, Railways informs me that the railway will ?probably be extended to Teluk Anson, but he does not tell me when the trace will be or where the railway will cross the Bernam. The railway will soon be needed, quite apart form the present ? except for the riparian strip along the Bernam River which ? wi to Teluk Anson, this extensive area of 430 square miles will ? Kuala Lumpur as its distributing centre, and the gateway is at ? Berjuntai; railway receipts at this place are increasing by leaps and bounds. This railway would also perform the important function of carrying timber from the felled jungle in this area: with the present shortage of timber insisted upon by the Forest Department the accepted method of burning jungle is nothing less than deplorable. British Columbian timber merchants propose to bring timber to Europe through Panama Canal and sell at rates which compete against the Norwegian and Swedish merchants: it should not be impossible, therefore, to devise an economic method of transporting timber from the Mukim of Tanjong Karang to Kuala Lumpur. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Ag: District Officer Kuala Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia. 1627/20. Transcribed by P.C.

The Malay Mail, Thursday, March 4, 1920, p.9 New Serendah. The Annual Meeting. A satisfactory Year. The tenth annual general meeting of the shareholders of the New Serendah Rubber Co. Ltd., was held at the Company’s registered office, The Embankment, Kuala Lumpur, yesterday morning. The Hon. Mr. F. G. Harvey presided and there were also present Major H. Gough, Messrs. R. C. Russell, D. H. Hampshire, C. L. Ward and M.D. Fallon. (Summary: Directors report, net profit of $157,265.78, interim dividend 7 1/2 per cent, recc. final divided of 22 ½ per cent, output 337,010 lbs, gross price..estimated crop 1920.. Chairman’s address..issued capital.. balance of shares unissued.. ..funds for planting.. up further 500 acres..rubber..property.. development.. buildings..machinery..debtors..profit and loss.. stationery..legal expenses due to litigation with rice supply agency.. 10 years work on estate..labour force of Tamils..conservative system of tapping.. satisfactory crop.. prices satisfactory.. forward sales.. company formed in 1910, list of dividends for all years..issue of shares..demand for labour greater than ever.. good healthy labour force.. issue of rice at half price..preferential rates on remittances to India by coolies as recommended by P.A.M. and the District Planters Association.. Mr. Fallon manager for many years taking long leave..thanks to him..Mr. Harvey leaving company.. move to adopt reports seconded by Mr. Russell. Other Business. On the proposition of the Chairman seconded by Mr. Russell, it was decided to declare a final dividend of 22 ½ percent, making 30 per cent for the year. Mr. D. O. Russell and Major H. Gough were re-elected directors…vote of thanks to Mr. Fallon.)

Letter: From the Chandu Monopoly Offices, Kuala Lumpur, to The Secretary to Resident, Selangor. Corr. No. (3) in 85/1920 Sec 1436/20 5th March 1920. Monthly supply of chandu to the licensee at the Coal Mines, Rawang. Sir, I have the honour to forward for the Resident’s consideration copy of a letter I have received from Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co: Kuala Lumpur in connection with the monthly supply of chandu to the Licensee at the Coal Mines, Rawang. 2. Under the new rate the Licensee gets 346 tahils per mensum. His average for 1919 was 384 tahils per mensum. 3. Mr. Russell admits in his letter that the consumption of chandu was less in 1919 than it was in 1918 in spite of the apparent increase in the number of coolies employed. 4. I cannot recommend that the increase asked for be allowed. If we grant it in one case, all other Licensees will expect the same treatment. I have the honour to be Sir, Your obedient servant R ?S. ?Wintershaw, Superintendent, Chandu Monopoly Sel: N.S. & Ulu Pahang. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia 1436/20

The Malayan Tin and Rubber Journal. 6 March 1920 No. 3 Vol. IX Mining Section Selangor Miners’ Association Annual report for 1919 The committee of the Selangor Miner’s association report as follows for the year ended December 31 last. - (Summary: accounts.. meetings..seven held.. market affected by end of war..Government took over purchase of tin.. ceased to buy in April, price then slowly rose.. several landowners reduced their rents.. high price of food especially rice.. on July 1 Government took over all stocks of rice from importers and dealers, miners grateful to Government.. Government appointed Director of Food production to encourage planting of rice and foodstuffs..new regulations for mines to plant up one acre per 10 coolies.. most miners planting sweet potatoes.. firewood expensive.. suggested use of more modern plants.. Tung Shin Hospital Appeal. Weighing fee introduced to support Tung Shin and Tai Wah hospitals.. Tai Wah gives care to mining coolies free.. Tin commission report ..response to three issues “that the system of reckoning one coolie per acre as laid down by Mr H C Belfield many years ago, should continue.. protest against part of the report that says coolies work with less exertion when price is high.. that compulsory purchase of land to give to neighbouring owner is not suitable for Selangor. Labour scarce, high wages.. Chinese miners not in favour of compulsory assessment on coolies.. membership remains at 92)

LETTER FROM THE ACTING DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT SELANGOR 17TH MARCH 1920 Kuala Selangor, 17th March 1920 Sugar Cultivation in Kuala Selangor District Sir, I have the honour to forward a letter C from Messrs: J. A. Russell & Company of Kuala Lumpur enquiring on what terms the Government would be prepared to alienate about 20,000 acres for sugar cultivation in the area North of the Selangor River. 2. I also enclose a tracing (A) and a letter B which I was on the point of sending when I received the letter from Messrs: J.A.Russell & Company. 3. The area shown hatched is considerably more than 20,000 acres, being about 25, 000 acres. 4. The idea seems to be to ensure access to sea, river and railway: probably no definite selection could be made until the area is prospected. 5. The applicants for 3000 and 5000 acres of land along the Bernam path may remove their application to the 19th to 25th mile, in which case, presumably, the present applicants may be granted land right up to the boundary of the padi reserve, unless this is to be kept for small holders. 6. I have nothing further to add to my previous letter except to emphasise the importance of the scheme, and also the importance of preserving the timber. I have the honour to be, Sir Your obedient servant, ?J.R Mills Ag: District Officer Kuala Selangor The Secretary to Resident, Selangor. From National Archives of Malaysia. Selangor 258/20 Transcribed by P.C.

DOCUMENT/MEMO FROM DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR TO ? BR. 17TH MARCH 1920 K.Selangor 17.3.20 258/20 Sugar Cultivation in Kuala Selangor District Application by Messrs: J.A.Russell & Co for 20,000 acres of State Land North of Selangor River MINUTES I think it says in the memo I wrote on the land between the Bernam and Selangot rivers that nothing is known of the timber and the geology. Nothing is decided as to developing that area, so it is not possible to say whether the alienation would disturb? that development in any particular. Draft to C.S. enclosed 28/3 The second page should be retyped? It contains 2 errors and I have added some words towards the end of Para 4. 31/3 From National Archives of Malaysia Selangor 1627/1920.Transcribed by P.C.

The Malayan Tin and Rubber Journal. 18 March 1920 No. 4 Vol. IX Mining Section Selangor Miners. Continued Decline in Output Deplored Government’s Help Appreciated. Speaking at the annual meeting of the Selangor Miner’s association, the president, Mr. Choo Kia Peng said:- ( Summary: report and accounts.. year 1919 under review.. good due to high price of tin.. question of decline in output..Government does not always do all it can to increase output.. during war Government passed act to allow tin mining on agricultural areas with consent of British Resident.. after war , no market for tin.. Government bought it.. permission to mine on agricultural land withdrawn in Selangor but not in other States. Fuel problems, transport needed, railway has insufficient rolling stock to meet requirements of miners.. mines risk flooding due to lack of fuel for pumping plant.. members should send in particulars to Senior Warden of Mines with specific cases of threatened flooding.. Complaint that Railway is taking all firewood at Port Swettenham.. small miners suffering.. Railway should not be in competition with miners.. firewood available which railway cannot transport. Coal also unavailable because of transport difficulties. Electrification of mines discussed waiting for report of Government Expert Advisor.. Food production.. should all carry out the instructions of the Director of Food production.. Trustees of Estate of Loke Yew to pay $50,000 for constructing a Chinese Town hall with accommodation for Association in new building, miners should subscribe addition al funds “ that the new building may be one worthy of our community’s prominent position in the mining and business circles of the peninsula” List of F.M.S. Tin Export Official Returns for January 1920 compared with previous year.)

LETTER FROM J. A. Russell and Co. TO THE CHIEF ASSISTANT DISTRICT OFFICER, BATU GAJAH. 24TH March 1920 J. A. Russell & Co. Kuala Lumpur, 24th March, 1920. Sir, I have the honour to inform you that I have been directed by the Chairman, Sanitary Board, Kinta, to apply to you for a sub-division of Certificate of Title 1419, lot 16572 Town of Ipoh, the sub-division to be in accordance with the Sanitary Board Town Planning Scheme K. S. B. 638/19. 2. I enclose the title deed, which you will note forms part of charge, Folio 123 Volume 71, in favour of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, and would ask that when the new titles are issued they be endorsed with this charge and the titles should also be sent direct to the Agent, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, Kuala Lumpur. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, R. C. Russell From National Archives of Malaysia. Kinta Land Office 191/20 Transcribed by P.C.

Power of Attorney dated March 25, 1920 given by said W. R. Loxley & Company, and the Deed of Substitution and Power of Attorney dated April 6, 1922 given by Mr. John Archibald Russell both in the favour of the said Adriaan van der Harst authorised to act on behalf of W. R. Loxley & Company or John Archibald Russell. Part of legal notice in Page 2 Advertisements Column 1 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 14 July 1924, Page 2 

LETTER CONCERNING LAND FOR SUGAR CULTIVATION BY MESSRS RUSSELL. SENT TO THE CHIEF SECRETARY F.M. KUAKA LUMPUR FROM THE BRITISH RESIDENT SELANGOR -31ST MARCH 1920 “GENERAL” 31st March 1920 Land for sugar cultivation by Messrs Russell & Co. in Kuala Lumpur District Sir, I have the honour to report receipt of an enquiry from Messrs J.A.Russell & Co. as to whether and if so on what terms the Government would be prepared to alienate to them 20,000 acres of land between Jalan Raja Musa and the Sungei Tinggi for Sugar cultivation. They propose to rentice the area with a view of ascertaining the suitability of the land and engage a Sugar expert from Java to advise them on the selection, and desire before going to this expense to ascertain on what terms they would be granted the land selected. 2. They state that their programme would involve an expenditure of from seven to eight million dollars to bring 10,000 acres into cultivation within four years and erect necessary buildings and plant, and that the reason for applying for 20,000 acres is that in nearly all Sugar cane districts it is found that approximately only half the area is suitable for planting canes. 3. The whole of the area is as far as is known waterlogged and extensive drainage would be necessary and would involve the cutting of a new outlet to the sea or into the estuary of the Sungei Tinggi or the construction of a new channel for that river. 4. Provided Messrs. Russell & Co. are prepared to undertake their own drainage scheme of the selected area and undertake to make it conform to any general drainage scheme which may be undertaken by the Government and to contribute to the cost of any improvements which may be found necessary to the Sungei Tinggi or to the cost of the construction of a new inlet channel in the proportion which the area granted to them bears to the total area benefitted by the scheme I think it would be to the advantage of the State to let them have the area they ask for on favourable terms-say no premium and a rent of $1 an acre until revision takes place under section 4 of the Land Enactment with a proviso that the rent on any portion planted with rubber shall be in accordance with the scale of rent prescribed in Gazette Notification 3528 of 1914, and would ask sanction to inform them accordingly. 5. I understand that the Conservator of Forest would have no objection to the alienation of land in the area referred to I have the honour to be, Sir Your obedient servant, Sd. A.H. Lemon (*) British Resident Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia.(2) 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C (*) The British Resident of Selangor from 1919-1921 was Arthur Henry Lemon (b. 1864 - d. 1933)

Letter from Secretary to Resident, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, to Messrs. J. A. Russell & Co., Kuala Lumpur 8 April, 1920. Increase in the supply of Chandu to Licensee at the Coal Mines, Rawang. Gentlemen. In reply to your letter of the 14th February, 1920, addressed to the Superintendent, Chandu Monopoly, asking for an increase in the supply of Chandu to Yap Eng Hock and another, I am directed to say that the reduction has been made in accordance with the policy of the Government to restrict consumption of Chandu throughout the State and that the Resident regrets that he does not see his way to make an exception in your favour. 2. I am to point out that it appears from your letter, under reply, that there was an actual decrease in consumption in 1919 as compared to 1918, although it is not stated that there was any decrease in the labour force employed, and there was no advance in the price charged until the end of 1919,and further that there is a reason to believe that the Chandu habit is one which the majority of coolies acquire for the first time after coming to this country, and that restriction of facilities for obtaining Chandu and increase of price are therefore calculated to reduce the proportion of smokers in the labour force. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, Sd. C.W. Harrison, Secretary to Resident, Selangor. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia (2) in 1436/20

Letter from R.C. Russell Malayan Collieries Limited, Kula Lumpur to Secretary to Resident, Selangor.15th April 1920 Increase of Chandu Supplies to Licensee at Batu Arang. Sir, We have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 8th instant numbered (2) in 1436/20 on the above subject and note that the Resident cannot agree with our request. 2. We would, however, point out that our Labour force is not composed of Sinkehs(*) but consists entirely of experienced miners, who have been resident in this country for years. We have recently raised our hewing rates to attract more skilled labour but this effort to increase production, on behalf of the Railways and Miners, will be brought to naught as no miners will seek work at the Colliery if they are deprived of Opium. 3. It is true that Chandu sales at the Licensee’s shop decreased in 1919 as compared to 1918, but the consumption did not. With a increased train service the Colliery Labour made more frequent visits to Kuala Lumpur where some purchased their requirements, the reason being there was a suspicion that the Colliery Licensee sold short weight, (this has been disproved) and also that the purchasers in Kuala Lumpur preferred to give their custom to their friends in the trade. With the universal curtailment of supplies in 1920 to License holders, the miners have been unable to purchase in Kuala Lumpur, as the shops would rather supply local residents with their 1919 quantities, and are enabled to do so by refusing sales to our miners. The Colliery Labourers therefore return to the Colliery Chandu shop for their supplies, and naturally find that there is not sufficient for all needs. 4. Coal mining in this country is far from congenial work and we have to endeavour to provide our coolies with all the usual amenities of life in Batu Arang. (as an instance we might state that we are supplying them with rice at 84 cents per gatang) in order to keep them contented. The majority of the Labour Force have been Opium smokers for many years, and the underground miner in this country finds that he requires a narcotic after an arduous days work in the Mine and seeks it in Chandu. If the latter is not forthcoming he naturally turns to some other form of labour or employment in which the work is not so arduous and his need for Chandu not so great. 5. We would ask that this matter be reconsidered by the Government, it is vitally necessary to the country at large and the Railways and Tin Miners in particular that we maintain our output and this can only be done by keeping our Labour Force contented. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants, Per Pro J. A. Russell and Co., R. C. Russell. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia 1436/20 (*)new Chinese migrants

Letter from the Office of Secretary to the Resident to J. C Russell. Esq., Kuala Lumpur, 19 April 1920. Increase of chandu supplies to Licensee at Batu Arang Sir, In reply to your letter of the 15th April, regarding the increase to the supply of chandu to the Licensee at Batu Arang, I am directed to inform you that in view of your representations the Resident will allow the increase to four hundred (400) tahils as asked for to commence from the 1st April, 1920. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Stamped) Sd. N.F.H.Mather for Secretary to Resident, Selangor. The Superintendent, Chandu Monopoly, Kuala Lumpur. Forwarded for your information. N.F.H.Mather for Secretary to Resident, Selangor. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia (4) in 1436/20

The Straits Times, of 21 April 1920 “ A.A. van der Harst, who spent many years of his business life in Singapore before leaving, about 10 months ago to take an appointment in Hong Kong, has returned and is about to open a local branch of the firm W. R. Loxley and Co., the well known Hongkong merchants”.

LETTER FROM ACTING DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT SELANGOR 21ST APRIL 1920 Land Office No (8 ) L.K.S. 258/1920 21st April 1920 Sugar Cultivation in Kuala Selangor District by Messrs: Russell & Co., Kuala Lumpur Sir, With reference to my previous letter dated 13th March, 1920, concerning the proposed application by Messrs: J.A. Russell and Company for about 20.000 acres of land for sugar cultivation, I have the honour to inform you that Mr. P.E. Hastings of Messrs: J.A. Russell and Company visited me yesterday. 2. The applicants have not definitely decided whether they will or will not apply for land in this district but in any case they will not apply for land further back than seven miles from the Bernam bridle path: the recommendations contained in para 12 (b) and (c) of my former letter are, therefore, no longer relevant. 3. It appears that it is proposed to invest about 8 million dollars in this undertaking. 4. If necessary the applicants will construct a railway and will dredge the bar of the Singei Tinggi. 5. The applicants will be compelled in their own interests to establish drainage works which will in effect drain about 60,000 acres of land. 6. From the conversation which I had with Mr Hastings I gather that the applicants hope that as the opening of the land will take a number of years they may be allowed a reduced premium of 50 cents an acre on land granted but not yet opened. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Ag: District Officer Kuala Selangor To the Secretary to Resident, Selangor. From National Archives of Malaysia.1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

SOCIAL AND PERSONAL [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 22 April 1920, Page 6 0. SOCIAL AND PERSONAL The death took place at the General Hospital, Singapore, on Tuesday of Mr. J.J.F. McEwan of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., K.L. Mr. McEwan went to K.L. some 12 years ago to join the firm of G. E. Cobb and Co., when he left to take up an appointment with Messrs J. A. Russell and Co. Untitled [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 23 April 1920, Page 6 and The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 23 April 1920, Page 5 0. Mr. J.J.F. McEwan , of Messrs. J. A. Russell, K.L., died in Singapore on Tuesday and his body was taken to K.L. by train to be buried. Mr. McEwan came out to Cobb and Co., joining Messrs. Russell in 1917. He leaves a wife, for whom much sympathy is felt. Father Renard went up from Malacca to conduct the funeral.

SOCIAL AND PARSONAL. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 27 April 1920, Page 8 and Untitled [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 28 April 1920, Page 6 and WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28, 1920. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 29 April 1920, Page 12 0. SOCIAL AND PERSONAL. Mr. J. A. Russell has returned to Kuala Lumpur from Hongkong.

FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 1920. THANKS TO MALAYA. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 23 April 1920, Page 5 0. FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 1920. THANKS TO MALAYA. The following letter has been received from the Secretary of the State for the Colonies and is published for general information. Sir,- Now that the war is over, I have the honour to request that you will give public expression of my high appreciation of the gratitude for the generous response in Malaya to the appeals that were made for donations and subscriptions to purchase war planes for the British Forces. The 53 war planes provided from Malaya were of the greatest value to our forces, and I am much impressed by the fact that, in addition to the Princes and other persons of wealth and prominence who were in a position to make gifts outright towards the squadron, or to make large individual contributions, subscriptions were received so widely from members of every nationality, creed and occupation to the full extant that their means allowed. The widespread feelings of loyalty and self-sacrifice shown by these gifts is highly gratifying from the great material value of the assistance thus rendered. (For the Secretary of State). I have etc., L.S. Amery To H.E. The Governor, SIR L. N. GUILLEMARD KCB (735 words)

THE MALAY MAIL 29TH APRIL 1920-PAGE 8 and SINGAPORE FREE PRESS. WEDNESDAY, MAY 5, 1920. Unbalanced Trade. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 May 1920, Page 6  and Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 30 April 1920, Page 8  The Directors of Malayan Matches Ltd., have secured the services of Mr. E.L.Bell, a member of the well known “Bell’s Wax Vesta” family and, until lately, General manager of the Australian Match Co. Mr. Bell has now left England and is expected to arrive in Malaya early in June. Mr G.C. Evance having tendered his resignation, severs his connection with the Company from April 30th.

LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY TO THE RESIDENT SELANGOR TO THE DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR MAY 1920 Kuala Lumpur, May, 1920. Ref (5) In 1627/20 Alienation of land to Messrs. Russell and Company for sugar cultivation. Sir, I am directed to refer to your L.K.S. 258/20 and to say that Government will be prepared to alienate up to 20,000 acres of land to Messrs. Russell and Co. for sugar cultivation on the understanding that they are willing to engage to carry out their own drainage scheme of the selected area and will undertake to make that scheme conform to any general drainage scheme of the whole area which may hereafter be approved by the Government and to contribute to the cost of any improvements which may be found necessary to the Sungei Tinggi or to the cost of the construction of a new outlet channel in the proportion which the area granted to them bears to the total area benefitted by the scheme. 2. Should Messrs. J.A.Russell and Company accept these stipulations the terms upon which the 20,000 acres would be alienated to them would be, no premium and a rent of $1 an acre until revision takes place under section 4 of the Land Enactment with a proviso that the rent on any portion planted with rubber shall be in accordance with the scale of rent prescribed in Gazette Notification 3528 of 1914. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Secretary to Resident, Selangor. The District Officer Kuala Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia (5 IN 1627/20). Transcribed by P.C.

LETTER FROM COLLECTOR OF LAND REVENUE, KUALA SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR. 12TH May 1920 District Office Kuala Selangor 12th May 1920 Applies for 50,000 acres of land for sugar cultivation By Messrs J.A.Russell & Co. Sir, I have the honour to forward a copy of a letter which I have received from Messrs: J.A.Russell & Co. of Kuala Lumpur, applying for 50,000 acres of land for sugar cultivation also, a tracing on which I have added in red the boundaries of land already applied for for the cultivation of African Oil palm, coconuts and rubber. 2. I wish to urge once more the great advantages which would attach to the establishment of this industry in the Selangor-Bernam area. 3. I understand that if the applicants are unable to obtain the land now asked for, they will go outside the Federated Malay States, probably to Johore. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, ?? Collector of Land Revenue, Kuala Selangor. From National Archives of Malaysia .258/1920 Transcribed by P.C.

THE MALAYAN LEADER MAY 21ST 1920 MALAYAN INDUSTRIES MANUFACTURE OF MATCHES Good Prospects in the Country. As is already known, a company was recently formed to manufacture matches in Malaya, and the public are watching the development of the industry with considerable interest. The existence of one company is, however, no reason why others should not start the same industry even on a smaller scale. It will be generally admitted that Malaya consumes a very large quantity of matches in a year. This is inordinately high owing to the extraordinary number of people who smoke tobacco in this country. Moreover, a large proportion of the matches now imported both from Japan and China is so inferior that considerable waste is unavoidable. Some of the boxes of matches now on the market cannot even stand slight pressure of one’s fingers. Half the match sticks do not contain any chemical compound which assists combustion while the other half consists of half-broken bits of wood with heads of different sizes and different shapes or none at all. During the war when freight was high and scarce, and when production was slow and unsatisfactory, the procuring of European made matches was impossible and people had to be satisfied with anything which answered the purpose of matches even in the slightest degree. But that necessity does not exist now and it would be possible, with some trouble, to import Swedish matches if we were prepared to pay a high premium. In addition to the extra cost we would have to pay the duty which the F.M.S. Government is retaining for another five years. It is this tax, to which the Government agreed with the sole object of encouraging local enterprise, that is, or should be, encouraging to anyone who intends to start a match manufactory in this country. It is, however, not likely that this tax will be retained after such an enterprise has had a fair chance of establishing itself. Wood and Plant In the manufacture of matches, however, the most important thing to consider is whether suitable soft wood in ample quantities is available in the country. Without a large quantity of wood of this kind it would be useless to attempt to manufacture matches on any large scale, because the importation of wood from another country would be both expensive and wasteful. According to Mr. G.C.Evance-who it might be stated in passing was lately the expert advisor to Malayan Matches Ltd, and who is the happy possessor of three gold medals for work he has done in India and elsewhere in connection with the match industry, Malaya abounds in soft and suitable woods, easily procurable for the manufacture of match sticks. He has made a thorough study of the woods of Malaya and speaks highly of their properties for this particular purpose. Having got over the difficulty of suitable wood the next point to consider is the question of machinery. The machinery has to be imported but need not necessarily be of very large proportions. A fairly small set of machinery, which could be conveniently procured and easily set up would be able to produce about 700 gross of matches a day, a quantity which should be fairly sufficient for our immediate needs, and satisfactory from the point of view of the manufacturers. To procure machinery of such capacity build a house and store, and run the business within six months, a capital of $200,000 is considered quite ample, and Mr. Evance thinks that if the capital was forthcoming he would be able to get the matches on the market within six months. That is undoubtedly a very satisfactory prospect to contemplate and after going into the figures with Mr. Evance no business firm would be reluctant to put up that sum. The Cost Mr evince thinks that retailers should be able to sell matches manufactured locally at one cent a box at fair profit and the company should be able to pay a dividend of 10 per cent if it were worked economically and sensibly. The establishment expenses, he thinks, could be reduced to a minimum when there is a full set of automatic machinery. The only part of the business which Mr Evance thinks could not be done by machinery is the dipping of the match sticks in the chemical compound, which, he thinks, should be done by hand. The factory should be situated close to where the necessary wood could be easily procured and the machinery could be driven by an engine, the firewood for which would be available. Mr Evance thinks that a small factory of this kind could be started by a small syndicate and then floated into a company ?as results come before the public. When results are before the public the latter would unhesitatingly subscribe because the industry is in the first place a local one and in the second place is one which affects their purse, to a very great extent. Mr Evance is at present waiting for the decision of certain gentlemen who are interested in the matter and who are discussing it with a view to forming a private syndicate. Whoever has the courage to embark on the venture undoubtedly has in Mr Evance an experienced match maker who has established factories in several centres in India and whose father at one time was the proprietor of a match factory at Home. He has therefore had every opportunity of studying the industry in its various aspects. With the excellent start given by the Malayan Matches Ltd., there is no reason why others should not follow suit and retain for Malaya the many hundreds of thousands of dollars that go to enrich manufacturers in other countries.

MALYAN COLLERIES. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 2 June 1920, Page 12 and MALAYAN COLLIERIES. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 4 June 1920, Page 10 and The Malay Mail, 31 April 1920, p.9 0. 0. MALYAN COLLERIES. Output reduced by Fire. The following official statement has been issued by Malayan Collieries, Ltd:- “ We regret to inform you that, owing to an obstruction of colliery haulage ways produced by a serious fire, which occurred on the 5th and 6th May, the output of coal will be reduced by about 50 per cent pending repairs. 0. While every effort to increase production is being made, we can hold out little hope of resuming normal supplies before the end of June” 0. In reply to an enquiry by our representative, Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. stated:- The fire referred to in the above notice occurred in the north half of the mine, and though small was so located as to block one of the main passage ways. Since the date of the notification referred to, the fire has been extinguished, and a new passage way is partly completed. It is considered that the statement as to resumption of normal outputs made in the notice will prove absolutely correct. Everything is working out that way, and it should be added that fires in the colliery have previously occurred, and may be expected to occur for another year or so, as a necessary incident in opening up a mine in coal of this quality. This fire only differs from previous ones in that it occurred in one of the main passages, and therefore, had a prejudicial effect on the output. The actual loss in burnt coal is quite insignificant. (262 words)

LETTER FROM J.A.RUSSELL & CO TO THE SECRETARY TO THE RESIDENT SELANGOR J.A.Russell & Co. Kuala Lumpur 4th June 1920 Sir, With reference to the interview which you were good enough to grant me on the 2nd instant on the subject of my application for 50,000 acres of land for sugar cultivation in the Mukim of Tanjong Karang, District of Kuala Selangor, when I understood you to say that you approved generally of the application, but you had objections to the exact situation of the area applied for, I have the honour to enclose herein a tracing showing a suggested amended area which I trust will overcome the objections you raised. 2. Except at the mouth of the S.Sekinchang where the application comes down to the sea, I have omitted the coast and the Padi Reserve from the area applied for. The Estuary of the S.Sekinchang is required for a harbour and the erection of a “centrale.” It appears to be the only suitable site for such ?h along the coast immediately adjacent to our application area. 3. Subject to the exceptions in the previous paragraph the application now runs from the 13th to the 21st mile along the Bernam bridle track and for 10 miles deep inland. 4. I shall, however, also want the right to run drains and perhaps roads across the Padi Reserve to the coast. I cannot tell exactly where these will be wanted till levels are taken; but it can be assumed that the Estate will not require more, probably much less, than, say a drain every half mile and a road, say, every third or fourth drain. I would therefore ask for the right to take up if found necessary 16 way-leaves each 3 chains wide and 4 more each 5 chains wide. 5. The land applied for is to the best of my knowledge, all flat somewhat swampy ground unsuitable for rubber or most forms of cultivation, but convertible with efficient drainage into fair sugar land. My deepest rentis is not more than seven miles in and I shall need to extend this rentis for another 3 miles besides cutting others; but unless after further rentising I write to say that the back area is unsuitable for cane, which is unlikely, I do not anticipate having to amend the application. 6. To deal with the other points you raised, in regard to the protective belts which the Forest Department wish created, I would mention that no better protective belt could be desired than an area of Sugar Cane, a plant which is unique in its being practically free from disease. 7. Another question you raised was the loss of the valuable firewood contained on the land. The jungle growing upon the area for which I have applied is of the poorest quality, being hardly worthy of the name of “forest”. Even if it were good timber, the area is so inaccessible that the cost of cutting and transporting firewood would be prohibitive. In this connection I should like to mention that there is a misconception current as to the cause of the present fuel shortage. Malayan Collieries can if necessary produce 5,000 tons of coal a day in place of the 800 tons a day which it has been recently outputting. It has not been producing more coal because first of all there was no demand for it, then during the war it was impossible to obtain plant, and now that there is both the demand and the plant, the Railway Department has not had wagons to transport the coal, and the mine has in consequence only been running and half its efficiency. The fuel shortage is directly due to rolling stock shortage. The number of railway wagons, however, is beginning to increase and the Colliery output is correspondingly expanding and is already over 1,000 tons a day. If the number of wagons continues to increase in the same ratio, within about four months from now the Colliery output will be in the neighbourhood of a steady 2,000 tons daily, which it is believed is as big a production as the country can for the time being absorb. Preparations are being made to sink a central shaft capable of winding up to an additional 3,000 tons daily in readiness to meet all demands as these grow. There would be nothing to prevent the sinking of still further shafts without fearing unduly rapid exhaustion of the deposits. 8. To deal with still a further point, I am confident that there need be no fear of our drainage scheme interfering with that of the rest of the country. Drainage is so essential to sugar cultivation that we should engage a sugar irrigation man before almost anyone else-we are already in touch with one who has been recently working on sugar irrigation in the Nile Valley. From the list attached of Mr P.A.M. Parker’s qualifications you will see that we are fully capable of doing the work ourselves; but we cannot spare Mr. Parker to do anything but supervise the general scheme of drainage. 9. I would again point out that there is a greater world shortage of sugar than of any other staple commodity, and that the matter is of specially serious concern to the British Empire, as the United States of America are contemplating placing an embargo upon the export of Cuban, Hawaiian and Porto Rican sugar to foreign countries. Cuba by far is the largest producer in the world. 10. I have every reason to believe that I can at this moment obtain from a group of `friends the necessary capital, but the world’s financial situation is not easy and if there is to be too great a delay in my obtaining the land I may find that the stringency of the money market has affected my friends too adversely to permit of their putting up over a million sterling of capital, money upon which they could look for no immediate return. 11. With reference to the question of the manufacture of “Natalite” power alcohol from sugar waste, since my last letter I have seen an article by Dr P.Schidrowitz in the “Times Trade Suppliment” drawing attention to the recent report of the Motor Fuel Committee to the effect that a world shortage of petrol is in sight and the consequent need for the production within the Empire of power alcohol, in which this well known rubber authority points out that rather more than two-thirds of the crude rubber produced is absorbed by the tyre manufacturer and emphasises that the development of raw materials for the production of power alcohol may well be regarded as of vital importance to the millions of British capital sunk in rubber plantations. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, J.A.Russell

FROM DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR, 8TH June 1920 Land Office 8th June 1920 (17) In L.K.S. 259/20 Application by Messrs: Russell & Co. for 50,000 acres of land in the mukim of Tanjong Karang Sir, I have the honour to report formally on the application for 50,000 acres of land made by Messrs: J.A.Russell & Company for the purpose of sugar cultivation. 2. A tracing (D) is enclosed. 3. I recommend that an area of 50,000 acres (subject to the requirements of the Conservator of Forest) be alienated to the applicants on the conditions as to drainage and premium and quit-rent mentioned in your letter (5) in 1627/1920. 4. I recommend that this application should take precedence of all other applications for the same land, which have not yet been granted. 5. I recommend that a strip of 5 chains in width should be reserved along the sea-coast in order to prevent coast erosion and to provide a supply of fishing stakes. (NB This line is crossed out. Ed.) 6. I recommend that reserves for town sites and for road and drain reserves (4 chains wide) should be kept as shown in the tracing. 7. I recommend that reserves of 5 acres each for miscellaneous Government purposes be kept at intervals of ½ mile along the 4 chain road reserves which are shown in the tracing. 8. I recommend that the padi reserve be fixed at 90 chains instead of 60 chains as at present. 9. I recommend that the grant should be made subject to a condition that the resident should be at liberty to resume without paying compensation, an area not exceeding 1% of the area granted, for the purpose of a road, a drain or a railway, provided that compensation shall be paid for the demolition of permanent buildings and that there shall be refunded to the grantee the premium (if any) and quit-rent, paid in respect of the land resumed. 10. I recommend that the grant be made subject to a timber and fuel condition approved by the Conservator of Forests. 11. I recommend that that the grant be made subject to a condition binding the grantee to recruit each year such a number of labourers as may be required by the Controller of Labour. 12. I recommend that the grant be made subject to a condition binding the grantee to cultivate with foodstuffs such an area as may be required by the Director of Food Production. 13. I recommend that the grant should be made subject to a condition whereby the Resident shall be at liberty to resume within one year from the date of occupation, without paying compensation, such areas as are found to contain stone or gravel. 14. I recommend that the grant should be made subject to a special condition binding the grantee to keep not less than 10,000 acres available for Malay small cultivators of sugar or padi: in the alternative, a separate title, bearing a “Malayan Race condition.” should be issued in respect of such an area. 15. To the best of my knowledge and belief, all the available relevant information has been brought to the notice of the British Resident in this and in my preceding letters, as required by “The Instructions to Land Officers.” I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant ?FR Mills District Officer, Kuala Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia Selangor 1627/20 Transcribed by PC

MALAYAN COLLIERIES. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 17 June 1920, Page 392  MALAYAN COLLIERIES. Correspondence between the management and customers of Malayan Collieries and the railway management is published in the Malay Mail. It is alleged that owing to the shortage of trucks there has been a forty per cent reduction in output, the number of hours time lost being 124 out of 312. Notice is given that contracted supplies will have to be further curtailed owing to the continued shortage. (68 words)

Fuel in the F.M.S. The Straits Times, 29 June 1920, Page 9. Fuel in the F.M.S. Malayan Collieries and The Railway. We take the following from the Malay Mail:- We published in our issue of June 10 a copy of a communication which we were told was being prepared and would be issued to all the larger customers of the Malayan Collieries. It was suggested in this circular letter and from the interview accorded to our representative by Messrs J. A. Russell and Co., that the real difficulty with which the colliery has to contend is the continuous shortage of railway coal wagons. 0. Such a statement obviously invited a reply from the F.M.S. Railways, and in response to our inquiries the general manager, Mr. P. A. Anthony C.M.G. expressed the opinion this suggestion did not represent the facts and made the following statement:- 0. “ I have on several occasions asked members of the firm (of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co.) when an increased output could be given. It has been our intention to use coal in substitution for wood fuel for locomotives in the Kuala Lumpur district, as soon as the colliery was in a position to supply it. When our present contract was placed in 1917, I was desirous of increasing the quantity for this reason, but was only able to obtain a promise of 25 per cent. of the output in excess of 17,000 tons per mensum. Now that the colliery has accepted a further contract for coal we are at once making arrangements to use coal instead of wood. It is greatly to our advantage to do so as it assists the wagon supply to the extent that one truck of Rawang coal is the equivalent to two trucks of firewood and therefore releases half the wagons we are now using for locomotive fuel, for other traffic. All the firewood cutters at Port Swettenham have been on strike and our contractors are demanding an increased rate of 25 per cent on their contracts, which we are not prepared to accede to. If they are willing to resume at the old rates it is our intention, in conjunction with the Forest Department, to retail firewood supplied under existing contracts with the railway to the public for domestic use. The price in Brickfields goods- yard will be $8 per ton, equivalent to $7.15 per cart load of 15 piculs, purchases making their own arrangements for loading and carting. 0. Coal Preferred. 0. The extended use of Malayan Coal in substitution for wood fuel is greatly to the advantage of the railway for the reasons I have given and I hope miners will adopt it. It would greatly improve wagon supply. 0. I consider that the Railway Department has got through the difficult period of the war in a by no means discreditable manner as regards the handling of goods traffic. In 1918 we carried 1,450,000 tons of goods by improved methods of handling goods vehicles as we used to handle 1,140,000 tons in 1914. 0. In 1918 and 1919 we placed very large orders in Japan, Canada and England for a total of 2,450 additional wagons which, when delivered, will give us an increase of over 50 per cent, in the number of wagons. Five hundred of these vehicles have already been put into traffic and it is fully expected that the whole of them will be turned out by the end of 1921. 0. Correspondence with Collieries. 0. Mr. Anthony also supplied the following copies of correspondence with Messrs J. A. Russell and Co:- 0. June 16 0. Gentlemen,- I have the honour to refer to previous correspondence on the subject of supply of wagons to the Malayan Colliery and also to the circular dated June 9, addressed to the shareholders of the colliery, a copy of which appears in the Malay Mail of June 10, 1920. 0. 2 I observe that in this circular you state there is no real fuel shortage in the F.M.S., the fundamental cause of the consumers being unable to obtain it being the shortage of railway rolling stock and but for this deficiency the Malayan Colliery could have a year ago satisfied all local fuel requirements. I do not agree that such is the case. 0. 3 I have on several occasions enquired of your manager, Mr. Mc Call, and your partners when it was anticipated that the output of coal from the colliery could be increased but was informed that no definite date could be given as it depended on the arrival of additional plant and machinery. Had it been possible to increase the output, I was prepared to take a larger quantity for the railway in place of wood fuel which for a long time has been unreliable. An ample supply of wagons which are now used for wood fuel for the railway is available and as one ton of Malayan coal is the equivalent of two tons of firewood there is considerable economy in the numbers of wagons required. I observe that the best month’s output in 1919 was 18,228 tons or 607 tons dium and in 1920 18,496 tons. 0. 4. On April 27 last, I enquired whether you would be prepared to take up a further contract for the supply of 5,000 tons of coal per mensum for a period of 3 to 5 years in addition to your present contract. On May 4 1920 you informed me that you were considering a scheme for increasing the collieries output but that you would not know for another month if it would prove feasible, and that even if successful in increasing the output you would not be obtaining it for another three to four months from that date, and that even then, you do not anticipate being able to give us anything like 5,000 tons per mensum. On June 4, you wrote me offering a further 5,000 tons per mensum for a year. This we have accepted and are transferring the wagons hitherto used for locomotive wood fuel to the colliery to load coal under this contract. It is evident that the anticipated increase in output is owing to Mr. J. A. Russell’s recent decision to concentrate on the open cast workings whilst the change in the method of working the deep mine is being effected, in order to avoid the fires which have hitherto affected the output. 0. Co Operation Essential 0. 5. There will always be periods when the colliery will be at a standstill unless you can take steps, to store even a days output wither in bins or otherwise as it is inevitable that delays will occur in returning wagons owing to delays in unloading or other causes, whilst a washout on the railway to which we will always be liable might stop the wagon supply entirely for a day or more. Many of these wagons travel 500 miles before they get back to the colliery. 0. 6. The necessity of adjusting consignments of coal so that consignees do not receive more than they can handle without causing delay to the to wagons is also of importance and has been the cause of serious complaints of wagon shortage this month. 0. 7. We are introducing the running of special locomotive coal trains to certain stations so that wagons will be returned to the colliery in quicker time than is the case when conveyed by ordinary trains. We have an extensive wagon building programme in hand and are constantly increasing our stock of fuel wagons. 0. If your manager will continue to work in co- operation with the railway in future as Mr. McCall has done in the past, I am confident that we can meet your demands even if they reach 30,000 tons per mensum which Mr. J. J. (sic) Russell has told me he hopes to do provided that the increase is a gradual one and that miners adopt coal in place of wood fuel, thus releasing double the number of fuel wagons now used for wood. 0. 9. Demands for wagons should be kept within the limits of actual requirements. You are demanding to-day wagons to carry 1,200 tons of coal or 30,000 tons per mensum, 6,000 tons in excess of the figures which Mr. J. A. Russell gave me yesterday as his ultimate maximum demand, whilst on May 4 you informed me that you will not be obtaining an increased output for another three or four months from that date. We can only promise to give you a steadily increasing supply of wagons. I observe that in 1918 we supplied 80 per cent. of your wagon demands which fluctuated sometimes as much as 40 per cent to 50 per cent from month to month. We cannot do other than give you a regular supply, gradually increasing as more wagons become available. 0. I have the honour, etc. (Sd.) P.A. Anthony General Manager 0. Messrs. Russell and Co. 0. KL. 0. Malayan Collieries, Ltd., Agents and Secretaries, J, A, Russell and Co, K.L. May 4, 1920 0. Sir,- With further reference to your communication of April 27, 1920, numbered G.M.R. 180-20, upon the subject of an additional contract with the railway department for the supply of coal, we have the honour to inform you that we are at present considering a scheme for increasing the colliery output but that we shall not know for about another month from date whether or not our scheme is likely to prove feasible. 0. We shall therefore, not be in a position to give a definite reply to your query until then; and even if successful in increasing our output we shall not be obtaining an increased output for another three to four months from the present date. 0. We shall do our best to let you have an increased supply, but do not think it that it would be anything like an additional 5,000 tons per month- We have, etc., For Malayan Collieries, J. A. Russell and Co. The General Manager, F.M.S. Railways, K.L.

KEDAH AND PERLIS REPORT. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 8 July 1920, Page 22 0. KEDAH AND PERLIS REPORT. GAMING ABOLISHED. The annual report by Mr. M. S. H. McArthur, British Adviser, on the State of Kedah for the twelve months, 7th October 1918 to September 25, 1919 states that the revenue amounted to $4,941,484, a decrease of $117,524 from that the previous year, but $741,854 over the estimate. The decrease on the previous year was mainly due to the abolition of gambling farms…………The Warden of Mines Mr. F. C. Marshall reported that the only workings of any size or importance to the State, those belonging to Mr. J. A. Russell at Sintok in North Kedah, were closed down during the year, this causing a blow to the prosperity of the district in which they are situated…….. The output of tin-ore dropped to 1,896 pikuls during the year. The streams which in previous years produced well, appear to be exhausted….. (745 words)

Untitled [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 10 July 1920, Page 13 0. Mr. J. A. Russell has left Kuala Lumpur for China and is expected to be away for about a month. (20 words)

Fuel in the F.M.S. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 16 July 1920, Page 9 and The Malay Mail, 13 July, 1920, p.9 0. Fuel in the F.M.S. 0. Malayan Collieries and The Railways. 0. The following has been sent to us for publication:- 0. Sir,- It is not our intention to continue the publication of our private correspondence with the Railway Administration on the subject of coal output and truck shortage; but as we had no chance of replying to the General Manager’s letter to us of June 16 before a copy of the same had appeared in your issue of June 22nd, and as this correspondence seems to have caused a considerable amount of local interest, and as further, the matter is one relating to the public and vital question of fuel shortage, we think we are justified in sending you a copy of our reply of 1st July to the General Manager of the F.M.S. Railways. 0. The publication of this in your paper may seem somewhat belated, but we did not wish to publish our final reply until the Railway Administration had had a chance of answering it. 0. Further justification for publication will be found in paragraphs 10 and 11 of our letter, which outline a policy that if adopted should effectually relieve the existing fuel shortage in the Malay Peninsula. 0. While apologising for the length of this communication, it would not be right for us to conclude without adding that since our correspondence with the Railway Administration commenced the supply of railway trucks has greatly improved, and, we are convinced, will continue to improve. For this and for his help and invariable courtesy we are exceedingly indebted to the General Manager of the Railways. Yours, etc., J. A. RUSSELL & CO. 0. The following, dated July 1, is Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co.’s reply to the General Manager, F.M.S. Railways:- 0. Sir, - We thank you for your favour of 16th June, and must apologise for the delay in replying, but an answer, since your letter traverses matters occurring as far back as 1918, naturally entailed considering reference to files. 0. 2 Your Para 2. We note your views regarding fuel shortage and repeat that had we been assured of sufficient trucks we could have fulfilled all local fuel requirements a year ago with the help of the new workings which we then opened. We may add that Mr. McCall, our Mine Manager, was of the same opinion. 0. 3. Your Para 3. Mr. McCall on every occasion that the question was raised complained to us of truck shortage. We are well aware that he also asked for, and was permitted to order, much additional plant and machinery, since he and we agreed that the leisure time afforded him by the truck shortage could not be better utilised than by thoroughly equipping the mine in preparation for better times, which we were assured would not be long delayed. 0. The principal fact is that a year ago the new workings had been connected by rail, but that operation had to be abandoned owing to truck shortage. Upon Mr. J. A. Russell being informed by you in May that there was no longer any truck shortage, the new workings were equipped with labour and locally obtained plant, and within a month were turning out considerable quantities of coal. We maintain that this could have been accomplished a year ago. 0. 4. Your Para 4. The conditions on May 4 were as follows:- 0. “ We were aware that a goaf(1) fire, which due to its position might be serious, existed. Thus until we had completely extinguished the fire, it would have been inadvisable to make any definite promise. As you know, we were for a time hard put to supply your due quantity of 5,000 tons. It was, you will observe, a month to the day when you received our offer to supply your additional requirements, and you began to take that quantity five days later. We would consider a complaint that we had offered the extra 5,000 on May 4 and failed to supply it on 10th a reasonable one; but as regards doing better than we promised, we do not think we have anything to be ashamed of. 0. 5. Your Para 5. As regards your suggestion of storing the coal. So far, we have never received a surplus of trucks on any single day, and it will be plain that until we are thus favoured the mine forms the best storage bin. But we have experiments in hand on a large scale for this very purpose, and if certain technical difficulties, which are known to you, can be overcome the erection of shortage bins will be proceeded with. 0. 6 . Your Para 6. This matter has been repeatedly raised by the F.M.S Railways. We have investigated every case and forwarded our despatch lists to the F.M.S Railways. We have asked for an investigation into the causes of the delays en route, which are entirely responsible for the trouble, since we dispatch the coal in equal quantities each day, while the consignees receive as much as five days dispatches on one day. 0. We would ask you to add to your list of complainants of irregular deliveries the name of Messrs. Topham, Jones and Railton of Prai. We enclose a copy of their letter, and would add that their representatives favoured us with a personal call on the matter, examined our despatch sheets, and, after expressing his entire satisfaction with our despatching, left to ask for a personal interview with the General Manager of the F.M.S. Railways, on the subject of deliveries of coal. 0. We trust you will excuse our entering into detail on this particular case, but the opinion of a large and experienced firm of public works contractors such as Messrs. Topham, Jones and Railton carries weight, and their complaints are prima facie, extremely unlikely to be other than well founded. A small firm, inexperienced in handling railways consignments, may of course complain when the difficulty arises solely from their being unable to hire coolies at short notice. 0. 7. Your Para 7. We have never doubted that the F.M.S. Railways as an organisation are as anxious as ourselves to cope with truck shortage. 0. 8. Your Para 8. We consider our Manager has co -operated with the Railways in every possible way, but would naturally be glad to have details of any action of his you may see fit to object to. 0. If, however, you refer to the pro rata reduction to the F.M.S. Railways when the mine is kept idle by wagon shortage, we as Agents are entirely responsible for this, and it is bare justice to our other customers, many of whom have contracts. 0. 9. Your Para 9 This paragraph supplies its own answer. We have known for several years that the F.M.S. Railways considered a supply amounting to 80 per cent of our requirements ample and satisfactory, though we have not previously stated it officially. We naturally indent for 20per cent extras. The lists of hours the mine has stood idle for want of trucks which we have sent you on many occasions will show that even the 80 per cent attained in 1918 has not been kept up in 1920. 0. 10. The total industrial consumption of firewood in the F.M.S. is estimated at 1,474,000 tons yearly. We conceive that an extra supply of 40,000 tons of coal monthly, which coal being at least twice as efficient as wood, means 960,000 tons of firewood annually, must in some degree ameliorate the fuel shortage. 0. We believe that the F.M.S. Railways and the Malayan Collieries working in conjunction can give the people of the F.M.S this additional supply. 0. 11. As proof that we are prepared to do our part we enclose a formal offer to the F.M.S. Railways of an additional 10,000 tons monthly making 20,000 tons in all, that is a third of the maximum output at present contemplated, subject to all the penalties provided in the existing contract, but conditional on the Collieries being supplied each month with sufficient trucks to carry their other customers coal as well as the railway requirements, the total truck supply not to exceed 60,000 tons monthly. This 60,000 tons compared with our maximum monthly output to date which you give as in Para 3 as 18, 496 tons makes 41,500 tons per month. 0. 12. We realise that such an increase, rapidly made, entails trouble and hard work to all concerned. But we will welcome the opportunity. 0. Also, while we feel no compunction in making complaints when we have evidence to back them, we would much prefer to supply coal to all and sundry (with preference to the F.M.S. Railways) on a thoroughly amicable basis. 0. 13. We enclose copies of five telegrams received lately through the Station Master, Batu Arang. This seems to be a new phase of difficulty, and would appear like the matter raised in Para 6 of your letter to be produced by irregular deliveries of coal as distinct from irregular despatches. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants, J.A. Russell and Co. (1488 words)

(1) Goaf \Goaf\; n.; pl. Goafsor Goaves. [Cf. 1st Gob.] (Mining) That part of a mine from which the mineral has been partially or wholly removed; the waste left in old workings; -- called also gob . [1913 Webster]

LETTER FROM ACTING UNDER SECRETARY, F.M.S. TO SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR 16TH JULY 1920. KUALA LUMPUR FEDERATED MALAY STATES 16TH July 1920 G.1675/1920 Sir, I am directed to refer to the Hon’ble the British Resident’s letter No. 10 in 1827/20 dated 16th June, 1920 on the subject of an application by Messrs. Russell & Company (subsequent to withdrawal of an application for 20,000 acres which may therefore be considered as cancelled) for 50,000 acres of land in Mukin of Tanjong Karang for Sugar Cultivation, and to state that the whole question of sugar planting and the conditions which should appertain to the granting of land for that purpose has been referred to a committee. An answer to your letter will be sent as soon as possible after the recommendations of the Committee have been received. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant ?A.S. Jelf Ag:Under Secretary, F.M.S. , From National Archives of Malaysia .1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

LETTER TO MESSRS. J.A.RUSSELL & CO. FROM SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR. 22ND JULY 1920. Kuala Lumpur 22nd July 1920 (14) in 1627/20 Application for 50000 acres of land in The Mukim of Tanjong Karang -::- Gentlemen, With reference to your letter of 4th June, regarding your application for 50000 acres of land in the Mukin of Tanjong Karang for Sugar Cultivation, I am directed to inform you that the whole question of sugar planting and the conditions which should appertain to the granting of land for that purpose have been referred to a committee. And that a reply to your letter will be sent as soon as possible after the recommendations of the Committee have been received. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant ?C Hanson Secretary to Resident, Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia 1627/1920 Transcribed by P.C.

SOCIAL AND PERSONAL. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 6 August 1920, Page 8 0. SOCIAL AND PERSONAL. Mr. Philip Morley Parker, of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., Kuala Lumpur, died at Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday after a short illness. He had for some time been suffering from heart affection, and this was the cause of his death. Mr. Parker arrived in British Malaya about two and half years ago to join the staff of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. as technical and scientific advisor. Latterly he had been appointed manager of the firm. (554 words) 0. Page 11 Miscellaneous Column 2 [Miscellaneous] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 10 August 1920, Page 11 0. . It is with regret that we record says the Malay Mail the death of Mr. Philip Morley Parker, of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., Kuala Lumpur, which occurred in Kuala Lumpur after a short illness. The deceased was taken ill on Monday evening and was attended by Dr. Travers. He had some time been suffering from heart affection, and this was the cause of his death. Mr. Parker arrived in British Malaya about two and half years ago to join the staff of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. as technical and scientific advisor. Latterly he had been appointed manager of the firm.

Letter to Mr. Henggeler from Mr. de Stoutz.

Soerabaia, Aug. 25, 1920. Without Prejudice. My dear Henggeler, -Referring to the conversation I had some three months ago with you and to the papers about Seboekoe I left with you I come now to see if your people are willing to work the property. I have just had a trip to Borneo and have heard that a Singapore company (the Eastern Mining and Rubber Co., mostly Chinese) has bought a coal mine not far away from our place at Goenoeng Batoe Besar, and intend to work it extensively. Their beds are only 6 feet and 7 feet and their coal has over 12 per cent ash and it is underground mining. This is the same coal as the Poeloe Laoet mine, which was bought by the Government for f. 3,200,000. The coal they sell now (the Poeloe Laoet) is so dirty that the engineers of the Paketvaart Navigation Co. assure me it contains over 30 per cent ashes, and they have raised lately the price of this coal from f. 12 to f. 35 for this company and f.45 for private ships. You no doubt know that the Dutch Government have monopolised the coal all over the country and it is impossible now to get new concessions and it is only the old ones which can be worked. The profit therefore to be made in coal now is very big and the mine cannot keep up with the demand: there is a shortage everywhere in this country. The ships of the Paketvaart, of which many have been fitted to burn petroleum residue, are now being altered again to burn coal, because the residue costs now f. 140 per ton. I came back from Kora Baroe with a chemist of the big oil refinery at Balik Papan and he told me they were also going to use coal everywhere on account of this very high price of the oil and they expect to use 400,000 tons per year. Here in Soerabaia the demand is very big for the sugar mills, electric tramways etc., and they cannot get enough even at these very high prices. There are enough people who are willing to do this business with me, but as I have already spoken to you about it long ago, and I think you and your friends are better able to do it than others, I come to you first (my friends in England are too slow about it, since three months they have not arrived yet to a decision.) Now I am disposed to make an agreement (equivalent of mining lease) for the coal in the 500-acre block marked on the blue print I left with you, under the following general conditions: - 1. Payment in cash (one pound shares if convenient to me) of f. 1,000 at the time of signing agreement. 2. Royalty of f.1 per ton coal extracted from mine with minimum of 100,000 tons per year. This minimum would start only after the first year from time of agreement, so as to give time to get ready. 3. In case of non-payment of money due power to seize plant and to cancel agreement. As I have transferred the concessions to a Dutch company all the agreements would be made here before public notary (none of these rotten lawyer agreements). As you are aware the 500 acre block is estimated to contain 10,000,000 tons. The coal can be worked to a great extent by opencast, and can be sent by lighter on river, or by rail, etc., to the sea which is less than two miles distant. Now please acknowledge receipt of this letter, and let me know if you are disposed to send a man here to inspect property, and prepare agreements, and I will give you one month’s option free to inspect the property, provided I have not yet disposed of it. Therefore please do it as soon as possible. I hope you are quite well and have good news of Mrs. Henggeler and your little daughter. I am quite well and like this climate much better than Singapore. -Yours, (Sd.) E.de Stoutz. P.S. I enclose herewith copy of a correspondence between Wilson’s (the liquidator) solicitor and mine, to show you their appreciation of the property when the coal was still low. It came to nothing on account of their unreasonableness, and my mistrust of them. Our coal is recognised as one of the best of the Dutch Indies. In case you send an expert there is a small steam launch for hire in Kota Baroe to go to the island. But tell him to take camp bed and mosquito net. Address: Post Office, Soerabaia Cable: Stouts, Soerabaia.(Reported in THE MALAY MAIL, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19TH, 1924.)

Letter to Mr de Stoutz from J. A. Russell

Malayan Collieries, Ltd., Kuala Lumpur, Sept. 6, 1920 E. DE STOUTZ, ESQ., c/o Post Office, Soerabaia, Java. Dear Mr. de Stoutz, -Mr. Henggeler has kindly shown to me your letter of August 25, regarding the Soeboekoe Coal Concession, which letter I have read with much interest and have carefully discussed with Mr. Henggeler. We should be exceedingly glad to be able to come to terms with you, but fear that your present conditions make the chance of our doing so rather difficult. One month’s free option would not be sufficient time. We should have to send a man over to make a rough preliminary report, and owing to the inaccessibility of your concession it would take this man quite three months to go to Soeboekoe, make his investigations and get back to Kuala Lumpur to give us his opinion and report. If he reported that the property was, in his opinion, worth boring, we would then require a six month’s extension of the option to enable us to have the place bored and more carefully reported on. For this extension we should be willing to pay you a sum not exceeding f.100,000. Your price of f. 1,000,000 seems to us high, and if we agreed to this price we could not pay a royalty of more than 25 cents a ton. We do not feel prepared to trouble further about the matter, nor to go to the expense of sending a man to make a preliminary report, unless we are given the coal rights over the whole of your concession. Five hundred acres is not sufficiently attractive. You say that this area contains 10,000,000 tons of coal, but we imagine that this figure can be little more than a guess. We are not asking for your valuable iron rights, but require the whole of the coal. Finally, we could not bind ourselves to pay you in shares, for it might be impossible for Malayan Collieries to arrange for this form of payment, but we could perhaps be able to arrange for you to have a seat on the Board of Malayan Collieries, Ltd. I can assure you that if we can come to terms, we mean business. We are prepared to spend a considerable sum in investigating the property and, if it be proved workable, in developing it. We have the plant and the men ready and could start straight away, and we only need to satisfy ourselves that the property contains a big enough deposit of good workable coal, but as we have the offer of coal properties in South China and elsewhere we would require to fully satisfy ourselves upon this point before we purchased it. I am leaving for South China, where we already have a colliery engineer, in about six weeks’ time, and shall probably be away for a couple of months, so if we are to do anything with regard to Soeboekoe I hope to hear from you before I leave Kuala Lumpur. I am glad to hear from your letter to Mr. Henggeler that you are quite well and prefer the climate of Soerabaia to that of Singapore. With kind regards, -Yours sincerely, (signed) J.A. Russell. (Reported in THE MALAY MAIL, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19TH, 1924.)

(Re Hong Guan. “In September 1920, he was liable to us for the payment of a considerable sum of money. We had made repeated attempts to collect this outstanding debt, and eventually on September 2, 1920 we wrote to him that unless the money were repaid we should be obliged to take other steps with a view to its recovery.”) J A Russell & Co.

Report Of Malayan Collieries Limited. Directors Report and Statement of Accounts For the year ended 30th June, 1920. To be presented at the Seventh Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders to be held at the Registered Offices of the Company, Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur on Friday the 15th day of October, 1920 at 2.30 pm. Malayan Collieries Limited. Report of the Directors for the year ended 30th June, 1920. The Directors have pleasure in submitting their Seventh Annual Report and Statement of Accounts for the year ended 30th June, 1920. TITLES. - The Company has now duly signed but not yet received delivery of the titles to all its property. The total area is 8,961 acres, 2 roods, 26 poles, against an approximate area claimed by the Company of 9,235 acres. The difference over the 200 acres is land excised by the Government from the Company’s property for a Railway Reserve and Village Site. MINES AND PLANT. - An account of these will be found in the Acting Mine- Manager’s sub –joined report. Some photographs of the Mine will be found at the end of this report. COAL SALES. - These totalled 200,705 tons as against 179,834 for the last financial year, and 161,272 for the previous year. STAFF. - Mr. T. L. McCall, Mine-Manager, went home on long-overdue leave of absence, Mr. E. England acting for him from the 15th April, 1920. Mr. F. J. Porteous, Chief Mechanical Engineer, who like Mr. McCall has been with the Company since its inception, left on leave of absence at the same time. Mr. J. G. Swanstone acting in his stead. LONDON AGENTS. - Messrs W. R. Loxley & Co., 34 Lime Street E. C. 3 were appointed the Company’s financial and forwarding agents in Great Britain. CONSULTING ENGINEERS. – Messrs. Forster Brown & Rees of Cardiff and London continued as the Company’s consulting engineers. PROFITS- The profits for the year subject to Director’s fees, amount to $505,872.94. Less interim dividend 5 per cent paid 15th February 1920 $75,000.00 Total $430,872.94 to which must be added the balance brought forward from last year’s account of $39,797.50 Total: $470,670.44. Which the Directors recommend should be dealt with as follows: - payment of a final dividend of 20 per cent on 150,000 shares, making 25 per cent for the year $300.000.00 Transfer to General Reserve 150,000.00, Balance to be carried forward to next year’s account 20,670.44 Total $470,670.44. DIRECTOTRS.- The retiring directors are Mr. Adolf Alois Henggeler and Mr. John Archibald Russell, who being eligible offer themselves for re- election. AUDITORS. - Messrs Evatt & Co retire, but being eligible offer themselves for re-election. By Order of the Board J. A. Russell & Co., Managing Agents and Secretaries Kuala Lumpur, 30th September, 1920. Malayan Collieries Limited Acting Mine-Manager’s Report to the Directors for the year ended 30th June 1920. Sirs, I have the honour to submit herewith my annual report of the work done on your property for the financial year ending 30th June 1920. COAL SALES.- The sales of coal for the year under review amount to 200,707 tons. SOUTH MINE-MAIN SEAM- The main incline was advanced some 300 feet during the year and has now reached a distance of 1,850 feet measuring along the slope from the surface. As predicted in the report for 1916-1917: - No. 1 Bench level has been abandoned, all the coal that it was possible to extract having been worked. No. 2 Bench level has been extended beyond the area worked by No. 1 bench level. No. 3 Bench level at the bottom of the mine has opened up an excellent face of clean coal, and so far no faulted ground has been encountered. During the year 1,070 feet of arching have been completed, and the total length of roadway now arched is 1,740 feet. There have been numerous cases of spontaneous combustion in the mine, but all have been successfully dealt with. NORTH MINE-MAIN SEAM- The main incline has not been advanced during the Year. No. 1 and 2 bench levels have made good progress and there is large tonnage of coal in sight ready to be worked by means of the coal cutters and hydraulic stowage. A serious fire broke out on the No. 1 Bench level, 150 feet away from the main line, but was successfully sealed off. This entailed withdrawing one pump which had been installed and sealing off a portion of the road-way. The fire produced a large fall of roof in the vicinity. New Jig levels have now been opened up from No. 2 bench level to No. 1 bench level, and the coal from No. 1 Bench is now lowered down to No. 2 bench level. Two electric storage-battery locomotives arrived and have been at work ever since in this mine. They are admirably suited to the work, are capable of handling large output and so far have given every satisfaction. Later in the year delivery was ?taken (missing words) g-wall cutter and this has been at work for several months with most (missing words) -wall coal conveyor has also been received, and this is being installed (missing words) It is intended to ? install (rest of sentence missing) PUMPING. - All motors, pumps and pipes on order were taken delivery of during the year. The new pump room in the South Mine is now completed, and the large turbine pumps are being installed. When completed, these will adequately deal with all excess water from hydraulic stowage operations and the extra water entering the mine during rainy seasons. VENTILATION. - The new Sirocco Fan was started up during the year and the increased quantity of air circulating in the mines has greatly ameliorated the conditions underground. It may also be stated that the increased ventilation has undoubtedly reduced the number of cases of spontaneous combustion. HYDRAULIC STOWAGE.- This is now installed in the North Mine No. 1 Section on the coal cutting face. The advantages expected from this method of operation have been fully obtained- the full thickness of coal seam can be won, and fires reduced to a minimum. A good supply of sand is now available from the Kundang Mine and makes ideal stowage material. COLLIERY RAILWAY AND SIDINGS EXTENSIONS. - Several new sidings have been completed during the year. The length of rack owned by the Colliery which is in actual use now totals 3 ¾ miles OPEN CAST MINES. - Additional boilers and winches have been installed at 1.2 and 5 Open cast mines. This will produce an increased output. Gantrys, Boilers and Winches are now under erection at No. 3, 4 and 6 Open cast mines. Coal will be produced at No. 4 and 6 Open cast mines in a very short period. These two mines will then give a large output. MACHINERY.- During the year two additional Babcock & Wilcox boilers were started up. These boilers are fitted with automatic chain-gate stokers. The results are most satisfactory. Chain-gate stokers have now arrived for No. 1 and 2 B. & W. boilers, to replace the hand-fired step grate furnace. No. 5 and 6 B. and W. boilers have now arrived. Three new electrical generators of 300 killowatts capacity each were received during the year, and are now erected and in use. The necessary extensions to the switch board were received and have been erected. Plant at present on order comprises: - New Smoke Stack, Railway Locomotive, Boiler feed pump, Cables and Briquetting Machinery. BRIQUETTING. - The new railway sidings are completed and foundations for the machinery house are under construction. Part of the plant has arrived. BUILDINGS.- Two new Bungalows were erected during the year. Two more are under construction. The Police Station and Quarters are now erected and occupied by the police. BRICK YARD.- 288 Laksas of bricks were made and burnt during the year for use in and about the mines. The site for the new Brick Yard is being cleared. LABOUR.- There are now some 2,500 coolies on the mines. Wages have risen steadily during the year owing to increased cost of living. There are 140 acres under foodstuffs. KUNDANG WORKINGS (HYDRAULIC STOWAGE).- This mine is now opened up and the permanent sluice boxes erected and ready for use. The mine now produces a good supply of sand for the stowing operations. STAFF.- The mine staff at Batu Arang now comprises 11 Europeans, the increase being the two Assistant Engineers, two Surveyors, and one Assistant Manager. Mr. McCall, Mine-Manager, and Mr. Porteous, Chief Engineer, went on leave from 15th April, 1920, since when the writer has acted as Mine –Manager. In conclusion I wish to express my hearty thanks to the Staff who have given me during Mr. McCall’s absence every possible assistance. Your Obedient Servant, E. England, Acting Mine Manager. Batu Arang 15 August 1920.

(The report includes: 4 pages of Accounts , 4 pages of photographs in pairs and a double page panorama photograph of the mine.) Also covered in Malayan Collieries. [Articles] The Straits Times, 12 October 1920, Page 10  The Malay Mail Friday 1 October 1920, p.10

Malayan Matches. Loss of Machinery. The following circular, dated Sept 15th, 1920 has been issued to shareholders in Malayan Matches, Ltd., by Messrs. J. A. Russell & Co., Agents and Secretaries. “We are instructed by your directors in making a final call of 25 cents per share to explain the present position of the company and the reason for the delay in the completion of the factory owing to difficulties which have arisen since the statutory meeting was held. We have thus to inform you that most unfortunately 68 cases of machine parts have been lost in shipment, and that despite every attempt made to trace them, they have not yet been found. Your directors have now given up hope of recovering these cases, and have made a claim on the insurance company for their value. Although the directors hope that the value will in due course be recovered, they are sorry to have to inform you that the loss is a most serious one in that it has completely held up for the time being the completion of the match factory. Part of the machinery that has arrived is also damaged, due to bad mishandling in transit. Your directors, however, confidently hope to be able to replace or repair any missing or damaged parts. Your agents’ London office was cabled to, instructing it to engage a first class match manager, and the services of Mr. E. L. Bell, one of the leading men in the match trade, was secured. Mr. Bell was originally connected with those well-known match makers, Messrs. Bell and Co. Ltd of Bow, London and until he left Australia to accept a commission in France, was managing director of Messrs. Bryant and May’s and Bell’s Ltd., the pioneers of the match industry in Australia and the owners of the largest factory there. Mr. Bell was responsible for the complete inauguration of this latter firm and thus for the introduction of the industry into Australia. Mr. Bell made arrangements to engage a competent staff of European foremen, one of whom will shortly be arriving in the F.M.S. On reaching this country last June Mr. Bell was confronted with the dilemma caused by the missing cases. Match machinery is at present almost impossible to obtain, so the loss is more serious than the insurance value of the lost plant would indicate. Under these circumstances it was decided that Mr. Bell should proceed to Australia and endeavour to obtain from his former works the missing parts, Mr. Bell being confident that he can do this, even although it may take him two or three months to get them shipped to us. Mr. Bell actually left for Australia on 20th August and should shortly be arriving in Sydney. However even so the completion of the factory will be greatly delayed, and, although your directors are unable under the circumstances to give any very definite date, they anticipate that the factory will be fully completed and in full running order sometime during the first half of next year. Your directors are also considering the question of utilising part of the company’s veneering machinery for the manufacture of three-ply veneer rubber packing cases. Mr. Bell has had experience in the manufacture of these cases, the demand for which in this country is great. Your match factory is very well equipped with wood veneering plant. It is interesting to note that the local price of matches is still high and the demand great. We are instructed in conclusion to express your directors’ deep regrets at the serious delay occasioned by the loss of part of the plant, a loss during shipment which could not in any way be foreseen or prevented by your company and for which your company is in no way responsible.

MALAYAN MATCHES. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 29 September 1920, Page 9 . MALAYAN MATCHES. Delay Through Loss of Machine Parts. 0. At the statutory meeting of Malayan Matches, Limited, a report of which appeared in our issue of March 3, it was stated that “The majority of the machinery has now arrived on the site, the balance being in transit, and a contract has been let for the creation of the factory, which will be completed in four or five months, and it is hoped that we will be able to commence manufacturing matches within six months” 0. Several copies of a circular dated September 15 have been sent to us. It is signed by Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. the Agents and Secretaries, and it states that “ 68 cases of machine parts have been lost in shipment”. The directors have given up hope of recovering these cases, and have made a claim on the Insurance Company for their value. Meantime there have been differences of opinion with Mr. Evance, the match expert, who came from India, and it has been decided “ not to enter into a definite agreement for service with him”. After this Mr. E. L. Bell was appointed in England. Mr. Bell reached Malaya in June, but without the missing machinery, he could do nothing; and as such machinery is unprocurable in the open market, he left for Australia in August in the hope of being able to procure the missing parts from the factory with which he was formerly connected with there. 0. The Malayan factory should actually be in working order now, if the forecast made at the statutory meeting had been realised, and our correspondents raise a question as to whether all is as it ought to be. It certainly is not, but the directors cannot reasonably be held responsible for the wholly mysterious and inexplicable disappearance of 68 cases of machine parts, or for the difficulty of replacing such parts, and their difference with Mr. Evance is a matter into which we cannot enter. The delay in making a start is deplorable, but it does not in the slightest degree affect the question whether Malayan Matches is going to be a paying proposition when it does start. Holders of shares, who have just been required to pay up a final call of 25 cents per share, ought not to get alarmed unduly. They must have patience and give the directors a fair chance. Apart from the great misfortune over the machinery everything connected with the company, is as favourable as it has ever been. (415 words)

Malayan Matches, Limited. [Articles] The Straits Times, 1 October 1920, Page 10 . 0. Malayan Matches, Limited. 0. To the Editor of the Straits Times. 0. Sir. I notice with much surprise an article in your paper of September 29 re inability of Malayan Matches, Ltd., to start their factory. 0. I hope in order to vindicate myself in the eyes of the shareholders of this Company, you will insert this letter not by way of an apology on my part, as I do not think I have anything to apologise for. But as my name has been mentioned in your article I should like to explain why I gave notice to the Company to terminate my services when the majority of the machinery had arrived at Batu Arang (the site of the factory.) I was ordered by the Directors to erect the machinery before even the site had been levelled. I pointed out that this could not be done except on a level floor, and in any case the machines would have to be dismantled again to be carried over to the site. It was insisted that I erect these machines. In (as I thought) the interests of the shareholders I told them rather than do what I knew would be wrong with regard to such complicated machinery I offered my resignation which was accepted. 0. I cannot understand how so many cases of machinery have been lost, viz., 68. Are the Directors certain that they mean cases or only parts of auxiliary plant that could easily be replaced here? I cannot imagine that cases have been lost. 0. As it is believed by many people that I thought the machinery in India I would like to point out that this is not the case. I found the machinery and put Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. in direct communication with the sellers in order to facilitate the purchase as other firms were competing for it. I might here state that I received no brokerage or remuneration from buyer or seller in connection with this deal. I was about four months in Bombay during the negotiations, and it was only after the purchase that I was engaged to dismantle the machinery and pack it for transhipment for Malay States. The late Mr. Morley Parker carried out all the details of purchase and the payments in connection with the same. He also arranged matters of transport and insurance, and I believe economically and satisfactorily. 0. Differences of opinion commenced almost at the beginning of my engagement with the firm. While dismantling and packing the machinery I received a letter asking me on what terms I would I would undertake management of the Factory. I replied my idea as to salary was $1,000 per month payable as $600 and $400 as a bonus. These terms were accepted, but on arrival at Kuala Lumpur I was informed that this salary did not commence until my arrival in Penang. Four months went by and I was then informed that I should not get the $400 per month until the factory started. I was disappointed, but still told them I would not let the matter stand in the way of doing my best for the Company. I wanted a certain Engineer Assistant; I was given another. I also found that my name appeared on the prospectus as First Factory Manager. I had not at that time been appointed, and indeed up to the time of my resignation I had not been asked to sign any agreement. I never saw the Board of Directors at any time, which seemed to me very unusual. 0. You mention that Mr. Bell has gone to Australia to try and secure missing parts. I do not think he is likely to be able to do this. I am quite willing rather than see the enterprise fail, to meet the Company and help them in so far as my abilities can do so. 0. I believe that the vital parts are not missing but as the machinery is very complicated many may be overlooked and in the matter of 700 or 800 cases small parts are difficult to find or even know when seen by those who do not understand the machinery. – Yours, etc. G. C. Evance. Singapore, September 30, 1920.

AMALGAMATED MALAY RUBBER. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 2 October 1920, Page 9 0. AMALGAMATED MALAY RUBBER. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, October 1. At the annual general meeting of the Amalgamated Malay Rubber Company Mr. J. A. Russell, who presided, said the position of rubber was not at all clear so there would be no final dividend for the present, but they would probably declare an interim dividend later if the position improved. The extensions had been stopped for the time being. Messrs. Choo Kia Peng, Hampshire, and Russell were re elected directors. (80 words)

Malayan Matches. [Letters] The Straits Times, 6 October 1920, Page 10  0. Malayan Matches. 0. To the Editor of the Straits Times. Sir,- As I am interested in progress in the East I very carefully read your article dealing with loss of machinery by the Malayan Matches, Ltd., and Mr. Evance's reply thereto. 0. In their report of March 3 it was stated “ The majority of the machinery has now arrived in Kuala Lumpur” I know Mr. Evance arrived in Kuala Lumpur in the latter end of December, 1919. That being so it is to be presumed that the machinery had been dismantled and packed ready for shipment before he left India for the F.M.S. Therefore it has taken about 10 months for the machinery to reach here and for the directors to find out that as many as 68 cases were lost! 0. Mr. Evance suggests in his letter that machine parts are not likely to be lost to so great an extent. As he packed the machinery I should think that his view of the matter is likely to be correct. He cannot but be interested in the progress of the Company seeing that he is an expert in the business. (a fact well-known in the East) and his future prospects depend upon the success of the enterprise, and not its failure. 0. It is not necessary to go into” differences of opinion” between him and the Company. There may be faults, and they may be on both sides. That is a matter which does not interest the people, who invested their capital, or the general public. But Mr. Evance at the end of his letter states that “ rather than see the enterprise fail” (rather ominous that, and not very assuring), he would be willing to meet the Company; for the purpose I take it, of overcoming any difficulties that may exist. According to the company’s own prospectus he certainly has great experience and he says that his name was put into the prospectus without his knowledge or sanction, he should be given a chance to make good in the eyes of the shareholders who invested capital on the strength of his experience. Why was he not made to sign a contract before the prospectus was issued? That is the usual and safest course in the promotion of such an enterprise. Possibly the shareholders may want to know something of this at the next general meeting. Meanwhile this oft repeated Asquith motto “ wait and see” will have to suffice. What if Mr. Bell does not succeed in getting the parts said to be necessary, and that even after all (if what Mr. Evance suggests is a fact) these parts are not necessary not having been lost, Mr. Bell’s trip to Australia will cost the Company more than would have sufficed to pay the 400 dollars per month bonus to Mr. Evance for some time to come. Well, well so, the ball rolls on and nothing will matter one hundred years hence to any one of to-day. 0. But the fact remains that the Match Industry is a good one in the East; it has been proved in India, Burmah, the Philippines and more especially in China and Japan. But there is no doubt that expert knowledge of the whole business coupled with a knowledge of Eastern conditions is required to endure success. 0. Wit apologies for taking up your valuable space and time, which I hope you will pardon, as it deals with the establishment of a very important industry.- Yours etc., MATCHLESS. 0. Singapore, October 4, 1920.

Page 7 Advertisements Column 1 [Advertisements] 0. The Straits Times, 8 October 1920, Page 7 and Page 5 Advertisements Column 3 [Advertisements] 0. The Straits Times, 11 October 1920, Page 5 0. 0. LATEST ADVERTISEMENTS FOR SALE,…. MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD NOTICE is hereby given that the transfer Books of the Company will be closed from October 11 to 15, both days inclusive for the preparation of dividend warrants. By order of the Board, JA RUSSELL & CO., Agents and Secretaries…. (800 words)

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 13 October 1920, Page 6 and MONDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1920. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 14 October 1920, Page 236  MONDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1920. The engagement is announced of Mr.J. G. Swanstone of Batu Arang, to Miss Ethel England, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. England, Malyan Collieries, Batu Arang. ( M.M.)

COAL IN MALAYA. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 16 October 1920, Page 6 , and 0. COAL IN MALAYA. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 21 October 1920, Page 246  COAL IN MALAYA. 0. COAL IN MALAYA. 0. Some years before war before out coal had been discovered in the Malay Peninsula, in the States of Perak and Selangor. The coal found at Rawang, in Selangor, some 20 miles from Kuala Lumpur, proved to be of first-rate quality, and as prospection proved a supply of over 10,000,000 tons, the Malayan Collieries, Ltd. was formed to work and place it on the market. The difficulty of getting plant during the war hindered development, but mining was started in earnest in 1915, when 11,523 tons of coal were obtained. Down to the end of 1918- the latest year for which figures were obtainable- 437,388 tons had been mined, and the quantity would have been greater but for lack of plant, shortness of labour and epidemics of sickness among the workers. The output in 1916 was 101,846 tons; in 1917, 155,279 tons; and in 1918, 168,740 tons. The discovery of indigenous coal is likely to have important bearing on local industries which, hither to, have had to rely mainly on fuel supplies from native forests. The 168,740 tons mined in 1918 were disposed of as follows: - F.M.S. Railways, 67,437, tin mines 66,500 tons: other F.M.S. consumers 14,915 tons? exported 19,888 tons. This is the first record of coal being exported from the Federated Malay States. 0. (220 words)

Malayan Collieries. [Articles] The Straits Times, 12 October 1920, Page 10 0.  Malayan Collieries. (An account of 7th annual report see above)

The Malay Mail October 19th 1920. The seventh annual general meeting of the shareholders in Malayan Collieries, Limited, was held at the registered offices of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on October 15th, at 2.30pm Mr. J. A. Russell presiding. Mr. W. S. Coutts for the secretaries read the notice convening the meeting. The annual statement of accounts and balance sheet and the report of the directors and auditors were submitted to the meeting. The Chairman in moving their adoption said: Gentlemen: - the reports and accounts having been in your hands for the specified period, I shall, with your mission, take them as read. Before moving their adoption however, I will, as has been my yearly custom, make a few comments upon some of the items in the balance sheet before you. Taking the debit side first, Sundry Creditors totaling to $159,744.84 consists of wages, freight Government Royalty and traders’ accounts due by the Company for June account. Since the closing of the Company’s accounts, the whole of the above liability has been met. Under the caption F.M.S. Government” is the sum $25,000. This represents the Company’s liability for land premium to the F.M.S. Government for the area which the Company has hitherto held under Prospecting License but is now taking up under Mining Lease. In the Directors’ Report you will see that in converting our title to the land from Prospecting License to Mining Lease, the Government has excised some 200 acres. This action we consider to be a somewhat arbitrary one, for in our opinion whatever the Government may do with the surface of the land, it cannot fairly deprive us of the right held under our Prospecting License to the issue of a title to mine any coal that may be beneath that surface. These 200 odd acres, were without consulting us and without compensation, excised from our title. We naturally would not do anything by mining or other action to injure the railway line, as it would certainly not be I our interest to do so; but underground mining could be conducted without causing any harm. The Government in a brief communication has further asked us to hand back to them the already issued title to our first selected block, the one which we are now actively mining, for what is termed “ emendation”. From Government survey plans we see that this Portion 1285 with an area of 1282 acres has vanished and in its place is now Portion 1364 with an area of only 1266 acres. We know nothing officially about either this Portion 1364 or another new portion, No. 1365, which now appears for the first time on the Government survey plans. I do not think that this Company has been unreasonable nor is it now going to commence being so; but it cannot consent to its rights being thus whittled away, without compensation and without even being consulted. In the past we have suffered much in this direction. When we took an option from the original Rawang Syndicate, we took one over land held by a prospecting Licence issued under the old Mining Enactment. A preliminary selection under this Prospecting License had already been made and this Company was formed primarily to work that selection. The time, 1913, was one of growing financial depression. When the title was issued it was found that Mr. Broadrick, the then British Resident, had endorsed upon it some fresh clauses, the most inimical of which was that the lease was not subject to renewal at the expiration of its term of 21 years. Messrs Drew and Napier took up the point vigorously with the Resident and succeed in getting the right on our title to one extension of a further period of 21 years. Under our Prospecting Licence we had a definite legal right to a title conveying continuous renewals for as long as we continued to mine the land. Had we taken the matter to Court we must I think have won; but we could not afford to delay the floatation any longer so had perforce to accept a serious diminution of the rights to which we were entitled under our Prospecting Licence. This is perhaps along excursion into the past, but I mention it to show you that we have not always received very sympathetic treatment from the Government, and must be excused if we are now somewhat suspicious of any “emendations”. The Government cancelling of tin mining titles which is being now indulged in and the refusal of renewals is rightly or wrongly causing doubt in many as to the security of tenure in these States. I will conclude this digression by repeating that this Company has no intention of being unreasonable nor of obstructing for the mere sake of obstruction. There is no body more open to argument and negotiation than your Board. To return to the Balance Sheet, Accrued Expenditure is the proportion applicable to the period under review of the Company’s Consulting Engineers’ fees. Reserves total to $460,000 an increase of $187,500 over that for the previous financial year. We are recommending that a further $150,000 to placed to Reserve which will then make $610,000 in all. This sum includes $150,000 for mine amortization which is standing charge. Your Directors are considering investing this sum in some form of enterprise not directly connected with winning coal at Batu Arang. Turning now to the credit side, $3,474.50 has been written off Mine Property making this a round sum of $1,000,000 which is a most conservative value to place on coal bearing land. Mine Development remains the same at $100,000 which is also a low figure, all development work now being charged to revenue. Extra buildings during the year have cost $54,834,91. Further building additions are still being made. Machinery and Plant was increased by $340,197.08 giving a total of $774, 866.81. Against this amount $125,370,68 has been written off in depreciation. We had also at the end of the financial year another $12,529.98 worth of plant on the water. We furthermore have orders placed for still additional plant which will be arriving during the current year. Our extra locomotive forms part of this ordered plant, while the balance of the briquetting machinery constitutes yet another portion. The cost of the plant on order will be met out of the current year’s profits. Owing to the kindness of the Railway Administration we have been able to hire from them an extra locomotive. Without this aid we should have been in a serious position. An extra $14,936.45 was spent on our sidings bringing that account to $134,574.73 from which sum depreciation of $7411,52 has been written off for the year. Our unused stock of stores has been valued at $52,965.38. Sundry Debtors amounting to $244,902.59 is practically all due on coal sales and has since been collected. Unexpired Expenditure represents quit rent and insurance paid during the last year but applicable to the current year’s working. Land Suspense is on account of the conversion of part of our land from a Prospecting Licence tenure to Mining Lease. The details of this I have already explained. Our cash balance at the end of the financial year amounted to $285,900,81 of which the sum of $240,000 was on fixed deposit with our Bankers. Since the closing of our year the cash balance has materially increased. Turning now to the Profit and Loss Account, you will notice that the cost of mining the years’ output was $1,170,675. including mine amortization of $37, 500 and royalty paid to Government of $50,168.50. Bad debts only amounted to $43.41. The coal sales for the year yielded $1,652,203.19 while sundry other revenues produced a further $24,345.55 After deducting all charges, the Company made a net profit for the year of $505,872.94. To this profit has to be added the balance of $39,797.50 brought forward from the previous year’s account making a total of $545,670.44 Your Directors declared an interim dividend of 5 per cent on the 15th February last absorbing $75,000 and leaving $470,670.44 now available for distribution. They recommend the payment of a final dividend of 20 per cent making a total distribution for the year of 25 per cent, the placing of a further $150,000 to Reserve, and subject to the payment of Directors’ fees and a bonus to the staff, the carrying forward to next year account of the balance of $20,670.44. A new feature of our Seventh Yearly Report is the photographs of the mine which we hope shareholders may find interesting. The mine is becoming what is for this country quite a fair-sized concern and one of considerable importance to the economic life of both the Federated Malay States and the Straits Settlements. It has been the endeavour of your Board to make the Company as sound a one as possible, placing it rather in the class of good industrial undertakings than of mining ventures. With this end in view as much work as possible has been charged to revenue, our depreciation has always been on the safe side, amounting to $162,428,54 for the year under review, while we have from the beginning been consistently conservative in the matter of dividend declarations. Our plant is of the best make, no expense having been spared in obtaining the highest class of machinery and equipment. But we confidently plan to make the mine yet bigger and still safer. For this current year our output will be considerably greater than that for the one now under review. We hope that for this month it will touch 30,000 to.ns and that by the end of our present financial year this monthly output figure will be almost doubled. In normal times there should be no difficulty in disposing locally of the annual production of 6,000 tons which such a monthly output would give, and should we anticipate the demand continue in excess of this quantity, we propose increasing our production during the following year to an outturn of a million tons. As our coal is not a good bunkering one, we have not formulated plans for a greater annual production than this amount but should there be a ready market for the coal even beyond 1,000,000 tons a year, with further development it would not be difficult for us in the course of another two or three years to double or even treble that annual output. In fact we have coal in quantity, and possessing now the means to increase production, in say, another two years’ time the amount of our Colliery output will be governed solely by demand existing for the coal. In the Federated Malay States we do think we have much reason to fear any really effective competition: the coal answers admirably for land purposes, and with an annual output of 1,000,000 tons could if necessary be sold at a price with which no imported coal could possibly compete. It is not as though the price of our coal was considerably higher than the price of coal in other producing centres. If we first admit that for bunkering purposes without being briquetted it is by itself of small use, for ordinary land purposes it would, nevertheless, be worth in Europe to-day quite 100 per cent more at pit head than we are at present charging local consumers. Compared with the greater part of the rest of the world, fuel in the Federated Malay States is cheap. I suppose that the Federated Malay States Railways is the only railway in the whole world that can claim to have effected a reduction in its fuel costs per train mile last year over that of the previous twelve months. Now as a matter of making the mine safer, our greatest difficulty has been with internal fires, some of which have been extremely serious and have caused us grave anxiety and loss. To cope with these spontaneous fires the whole system of mining at the Colliery is being altered. By the new method no coal will be left behind in pillars to grind and spontaneously ignite, but will be totally removed and its place filled with sand introduced by means of hydraulic stowage. In order not to close down the workings, the conversion to the new system has to be a gradual one and it will thus still be another year or more before the new method is in full operation throughout the mine. But even at this stage in the conversion, the danger from fires has already been greatly minimized, and were another bad one to beak out, it would not have that disastrous effect upon our output that such an occurrence would have caused so late as six months ago. On the whole, therefore, I think you can feel reasonably assured that you posses a safe investment with a promising future. That future, of course, is bound up with the future of the Federated Malay States, and particularly with the general prosperity of its tin mining industry. A severe and prolonged fall in the price of this metal would adversely effect our coal sales and consequently our profits. But such a fall should it occur could only be for a comparatively temporary period, for I do not suppose that anyone in this country, even during a time of general depression like the present, has any real doubts as to the actuality of the prosperous future before these States. It is probably the intention of your Board shortly to ask you to sanction an increase of the Company’s authorized capital from $2,000,000 to $4,000,000. It is not proposed immediately to issue any of this further capital, but your Board has under consideration the strengthening of the Company by the possible acquisitions of other properties. The Company’s representatives have inspected coal deposits in China, Siam and the Dutch East Indies but hitherto with negative results. Two properties are now under examination which may prove as unsuitable as the ones previously visited but to be ready with the power to raise more capital in case a good property be obtained, we propose asking for the sanction I have mentioned. I should explain that although we feel confident that the product of no outside field would compete with our present coal for railway, mining and other land boiler purposes in the F.M.S. where our geographical position, our rail communication and the great thickness of our seams and quantity of our coal all combine to place us in an unassailable position for the production of a big out put salable at a low local price, yet for certain uses where bunkering and storing are essential and for the large trade adjacent but outside the F.M.S., an additional coal field possessing some of the qualities which our present fuel lacks might conceivably strengthen our position and widen our market. Wit our present staff, our experience, and our plant we consider that we might possibly be able to work efficiently and profitably fields that others could not operate so successfully. But we should acquire no further property unless we were first fully convinced of its value and had no doubt that it would add to our strength and profits. Not fearing competition in our own particular market, we can afford to be discriminately fastidious regarding any outside property offered us. I have again to thank the Colliery staff for their loyal services during the year and especially Mr. England, our acting Mine-Manager, who has had an exceedingly trying time in carrying out the conversion from one mining system to another, in dealing with spontaneous fires and in increasing the output. No one could have the interests of the Company more loyally at heart than Mr. England, and his long and varied colliery experience has been of great value to your Directors when considering future development. Mr. McCall and Mr. Porteous are still on leave and are I trust enjoying the holiday so long delayed. I have also to thank one of our shareholders Mr. Ho Man, for the valuable advice and services he has rendered the Company during the past year. Messrs. Chan Thye Lee, whom Mr. Ho Man manages so progressively, operate more tin mines in Selangor than any other firm. They were among the first people to use our coal and today after the F.M.S. Railways they are our biggest customer. We have recently concluded with the General Manager of Railways an additional contract for an extra 5,000 tons of coal a month, and I should like to take this opportunity of saying that despite little differences which occasionally may arise between ourselves and the Railway Administration, we have to thank it for a great deal of real assistance afforded us and for the invariable courtesy and accessibility of its General Manager who is always ready to discuss with understanding and a refreshing broadness of vision the difficulties and points between us. Finally, to the Government Electrical Adviser, Mr. Bolton, we are indebted for several interesting conversations upon the power requirements of the country with special reference to our coal. I now beg formally to move that the report of the Directors produced, together with the statement of the Company’s accounts as at June 30th, 1920, duly audited, be now received, approved, and adopted, which motion I will ask Mr. Grant Mackie to second; but before putting it to the meeting I shall first endeavor to answer to the best of ability any questions that shareholders present may care to put. Mr. Hopson Walker asked for the details of the contract with the F.M.S. Railways to which the Chairman had referred in his speech. It was a matter about which many shareholders held strong views, believing that they were being taken an unfair advantage of by the Government. The Chairman in reply stated that that the first contract with the Government was for a period of five years. It was entered into at the time that the Company began producing coal. There was at the time prejudice against the Company’s coal, and it did not command a ready sale. It was most important to secure the Railway contract as to do so was to establish the value of Rawang coal as a fuel. The Railway Department knew this, and, as was only business, practically dictated its own terms. The Company agreed to supply 5,000 tons of coal a month at the rate of $5.50 per ton, that is, the Railway had the right to be supplied with 5,000 tons and the option to take either 10 per cent less or 10 per cent more than the contracted amount. Whenever it could, of course, it took ten per cent more. It must be admitted that at this time the Company did not foresee the great rise in the cost of its coal production which has in sympathy with everything else since taken place. He would further admit that these rates to the F.M.S.R. were not remunerative ones to the Company. In that original contract, the Railway had also a clause by which it had the right to buy, at the same rate of $5.50 per ton a quarter of any output there might be above a monthly production of 17,000 tons. Shareholders might remember that two years ago there was an agitation against the Company when certain consumers accused it of profiteering. The Government appointed a commission consisting of Mr. Eyre Kenny and Mr. F.A.S. McClelland to investigate these charges. This Commission went through the Company’s books and came to the conclusion that there was no profiteering. The Commission recommended, he believed, that if the Company were to reduce the price of coal to the ordinary consumer, it be allowed to raise the price to the Railway which was far too low. The Company heard no more of the charge of profiteering nor of the Commission’s recommendations. The F.M.S.R. wanted still more coal a month, but the difficulties of increasing the output during the war were great. When the means of production improved, Mr. Anthony, the General Manager of the Railways, was exceedingly reasonable and admitted that the clause giving the Railways the right to a quarter of any increase over 17,000 tons a month was extremely hard on the Company. He said he was prepared to cancel that clause if the Company gave the Railways another 5,000 tons of coal a month on a long contract, the two contracts to run simultaneously, if the Company also did not charge the Railways too high a price for this additional coal. The Company was not prepared to tie itself down to another long contract, but said it was willing to give an extra 5,000 tons per month to the Railways at $10.50 per ton for a year in return for the Railways canceling the excess production clause. The contract for this additional amount had been duly entered into. There was over another year of the first contract still to go. At the end of that period, no one could expect to get the Company’s coal at $5.50 per ton, unless there were a revolutionary reduction in the cost of production. Mr. Grant Mackie said that imported coals were still fetching $48/- and more a ton in Singapore. Chairman said that Rawang coal was, as they knew, a semi-bitumous coal, and without being briquetted or mixed with other coals was unsuitable for bunkering. They could not expect to realize such prices as $48/- a ton for it. Mr. Grant Mackie said that, anyway, it was a most valuable asset to the whole Peninsula, and that a man in the leading firm of Mining Engineers in the country had remarked to him only the other day- “God knows what we should have done during the war without this coal” If the Company wanted to profiteer it could force some people to pay $35 a ton for Rawang coal. A small output at high prices would pay the Company, if not the country, better than its present policy of a large output at low prices. Of course this state of affairs might not always be so, but it was true at the present moment. No Company had ever been further than theirs from indulging in profiteering. Mr. Hopson Walker said that he was fully satisfied with the Chairman’s explanation as to how it was that the Company sold coal at such low prices to the F.M.S. Government Railways. The additional contract would to some extent rectify the matter, and he thought that the company had done wisely into entering into this additional contract with the General Manager of the Railways. He trusted that a report of the meeting and this discussion would appear in the local press, as he knew that many shareholders thought that the Board unduly and unnecessarily favoured the Government in letting it have cheap coal. The Railways, these shareholders said, paid at least from $20,000 to $30,000 a month less than it should do for its coal: $300,000 a year was a big item: it represented 20 per cent of the Company’s capital. The explanation given by the Chairman would show these shareholders how the existing condition had arisen. Mr. Hopson Walker also referred to that portion of the Chairman’s speech in which the Chairman had stated that the Company had inspected areas in Siam, and China, and asked if the idea of going into foreign countries was that the Company might find a coal which they could mix with the Rawang coal. He thought it was a danger to outside the British flag. The Chairman replied that from time to time, as he said in his speech, outside properties had been offered to the Company which it had inspected with the idea primarily of extending its market and secondly that it might perhaps find a coal which by mixing with Rawang would make the latter more suitable for bunkering. The second reason was by no means a vital matter for the Company as briquetting its own coal would answer the same purpose. The briquetting plant should be in operation towards the end of the present financial year. There being no further questions, Mr. Grant Mackie seconded the Chairman’s motion to adopt the report and accounts, which was carried. The Chairman then moved the payment of a final dividend of 20 per cent making 25 per cent for the year upon the issued capital of the Company, the placing of $150,000 to General Reserve and the carrying forward of the balance to next year’s account, which was seconded by Dr. J. M. Crago. The sum of $10,000 was voted to the directors in remuneration of their services for the past year. Mr. J. A. Russell and Mr. A.A. Henggeler were re-elected to seats on the Board. Messrs. Evatt and Co. were re-elected auditors for the ensuring year at a fee of $1,000. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr. McCall, to the acting Mine Manager, Mr. England, and to the staff on the mine for their services during the past year and a bonus of one month’s salary granted as a mark of the Company’s appreciation. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chairman and the directors.

A letter from the Collector of Land Revenue, Kuala Kubu, dated 29th October, 1920 (U.S.L. 2032/20) to J.A.Russell & Co., enquires if Malayan Collieries Ltd., had allowed Malayan Machines Ltd., to build a Match Factory and a bungalow upon its property. H.H. Robins sent the Letter of 5th November in reply.

MALAYAN COLLIERIES. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 5 November 1920, Page 9 and 0. MALAYAN COLLIERIES. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 November 1920, Page 12 and 0. MALAYAN COLLIERIES. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 11 November 1920, Page 6 MALAYAN COLLIERIES. Large Increase of Capital Approved. 0. An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders in Malayan Collieries, Limited, was held at the registered offices of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on November 2, Mr. J. A. Russell presiding. 0. Mr. W. S. Coutts for the Secretaries, Messrs. J.A. Russell and Co., read the notice convening the meeting. 0. The Chairman said: Gentlemen:- In my speech at the company annual general meeting on the 10th of last month, I mentioned that your directors proposed to ask your sanction to the increase in the authorized capital of the company from $2,000,000 to $4,000,000 by the creation of an additional 200,000 shares of $10 each. I also explained that, should you grant this sanction, it is not the intention of the directors to issue at present any of these extra shares, or to issue the 50,000 un- issued shares which the company already has in reserve, the increase of the authorized capital being solely for the purpose of improving the potential strength of the company by placing your directors in a position to quickly raise additional funds should it at any time be advisable for them to do so. 0. I do not think there is need for me to-day to add to that statement, except perhaps to mention that in the event of shares later on being issued, whether the whole or part of any such emission or emissions be offered first to present shareholders and at what, if any, premium the shares be issued, will be determined solely by due consideration as to what will best serve the greatest interests of the company at the time of issue and consistent with the purpose for which the particular issue in question may be made. 0. I now beg formally to propose, “ That the capital of the company be increased from $2,000.000 to $4,000.000 by the creation 200.000 new shares of $10 each” The resolution was seconded by Mr. A. Grant Mackie and carried nem.con. M.M. 0. (336 words)

LETTER FROM MALAYAN COLLIERIES LTD TO THE COLLECTOR OF LAND REVENUE, ULU SELANGOR. 5TH NOVEMBER 1920 Kuala Lumpur, 5th November. 1920. Sir, With reference to your letter of the 29th ultimo numbered (1) in U.S.L. 2032/20, inquiring whether Malayan Collieries Ltd., has allowed Malayan Matches Ltd., to erect a Match factory and a bungalow upon its property, we have the honour to reply that this is so and also that both the fact and the reason for our so doing are we believe, well known to the Government, or at least to certain officials in the Government, but as you do not appear to be aware of them yourself, for your own information we explain below the position. The Government gave to the promoters of Malayan Matches Limited a concession for the manufacture of Matches over that part of the Nantau Panjang Forest reserve which, contained no hard wood, is useless for practically any other economic purpose and which happens to adjoin the property of Malayan Collieries Ltd. Unfortunately, however, the Forest Department could not give Malayan Matches Ltd., a factory site without first revoking the Forest Reserve, a lengthy and tedious process which the Forest Department was not anxious to do, and which would in any case have taken considerable time to complete, and thus have deferred or prevent the formation of the Company and the inauguration of a useful local industry. As it was also necessary for Malayan Matched, Ltd., to obtain sanction to use the Railway siding constructed over the property of and belonging to Malayan Collieries Ltd., and to extend the same, the simplest way that suggested itself of solving the difficulty confronting Malayan Matches Ltd., and the Forest Department in the matter of a site, was for Malayan Collieries Ltd., to grant Malayan Matches, Ltd., permission not only to use and extend the line and siding traversing its property, but also to erect a factory and bungalows at the edge of its property at a point where this property adjoins that part of the Forest Reserve conceded by the Government to Malayan Matches, Ltd. Malayan Matches, Ltd, in approaching Malayan Collieries Ltd., for this permission, assured Malayan Collieries Ltd., that it would in no way obstruct or hinder the latter from the proper and efficient working of its coal concession, and that on being given due notice by the latter it would, if necessary, remove its buildings and sidings to another site or entirely from off the latter’s property. No concealment has ever been made regarding the assistance in the matter of rail facilities and a site which Malayan Collieries, Ltd., rendered to Malayan Matches, Ltd., and the aid it has given is well known to Government and certainly to those officials with whom Malayan Matches, ltd., negotiated for its Match concession and a protective import tariff. The assistance which Malayan Collieries Ltd., has given is of only a nominal benefit to itself and has been made solely with the idea of aiding in the establishment of a useful fellow-industry, of obviating the difficulty in connection with revoking the Forest Reserve and in the general interest of the State and the community. Malayan Collieries Ltd., has consistently endeavoured to help others where it could do so without harm to itself. It has twice given up part of the area it has held under its Prospecting License to Rubber Companies which were entirely unconnected with itself or with any of its shareholders, and it also on one occasion surrendered a large area from its prospecting License for the formation of Protective Forest Belt. We have, etc Malayan Collieries Ltd., J.A.Russell & Co. Sd. H.H.Robbins (Manager) The Collector of Land revenues Ulu Selangor K.Kubu. From National Archives of Malaysia. Transcribed by P.C

DOCUMENT FROM CS FMS TO THE BR FOR THE RESIDENT’S CONFERENCE. 5TH NOVEMBER 1920 Sugar Cultivation Land for (For Residents’ Conference) Minutes CSO G3610/20 D.O.K.S. Please put up a tracing showing the 20,000 acres you suggest should be earmarked for sugar cultivation. 2. Has this land been investigated and have you any authoritative opinion that it is suitable for that cultivation? ?Or 9.11.20 S.R. I enclose a tracing, but I have to ask you to borrow from the U.S. the map which shows the actual boundaries suggested by the Committee, and add them to this tracing. I do not remember that Mr Douglas decided on the actual boundaries when he spoke to me of this. The suggestion came from him, not from me, though I said I knew of no objection to it. 2. The land has not been investigated and I have not any authoritative opinion that it is suitable for sugar cultivation, though I should suppose that the land within the area of 50,000 acres applied for by Messrs J. A. Russell and Co. would be suitable. 3. The tracing shows my tentative proposals with regard to reserves for roads, towns etc but they are necessarily incomplete, e.g. I cannot decide on drain reserves until the lie of the land has been investigated. 4. The Malay Reservation and Town Reserve were approved in Sel. 2145/20. 5. The application by Messrs Robinson, Notley and others for land immediately to the east of the Forest Belt is referred to in Sel. 2145/20 para. 9 of (1) : consideration was postponed pending decision as to Forest Reserves. 6. The application for 5000 acres east of the Malay Reservation has not been reported on. 7. Messrs Russell’s application for 50,000 acres is the subject of Sel. 1627/20. 8. With reference to the heading “Areas Available”, I draw attention to the fact that Messrs Russell’s present application runs along the coast Padi Reserve for 8 miles and in towards the Bernam River for about 10 miles: while their former application was for an area about 5 miles broad from the Sungei Tinggi to the Forest Belt along the east of the Coast Padi Reserve. ???? 16.11.20 (2) from Ag. U.S. encld. 17.11 KW Residents Conference Or 18.11.20 From National Archives of Malaysia Selangor 5459/1920 transcribed by P.C.

LETTER FROM J.A.RUSSELL & CO. TO THE BRITISH RESIDENT, SELANGOR. 10TH NOVEMBER 1920 Kuala Lumpur 10th Nov 1920 Sir, With reference to my application for 50,000 acres of land for the cultivation of sugar in the Mukim of Tanjong Karang, District of Kuala Selangor (referred to in 14 in 1627/20), regarding which I have recently been informed (22 in L.K.S. 258/20) that no declaration can be given at present, I have the honour to enquire whether the Government would have any objection to my asking H.E. the High Commissioner to grant me an interview upon the matter. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant J.A.Russell Ack. Receipt and say that his request for an interview with H.E. the H.C. should be addressed to the Honble the Ag: C.S.G. to whom his application for 50,000 of land has been submitted Or 12.11.20 From National Archives of Malaysia 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

Eastern Tungsten. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 10 November 1920, Page 10 0. Eastern Tungsten. 0. Prospects for Future of The Company. 0. The third annual general meeting of shareholders in Eastern Tungsten, Ltd., was held at the registered offices of the Company, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Building's, Kuala Lumpur, on November 5, Mr. A. A. Henggeler presiding. Mr. W. S. Coutts for the Secretaries, Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., read the notice convening the meeting and the auditors’ report. The annual statement of accounts and balance sheet and the report of the directors and auditors were submitted to the meeting. 0. Summary: Chairman commented on report. Summarized financial situation, and price of stocks in KL Hong Kong and New York. Prices in New York may go up if a Republican president is elected. He listed 0. values of plant, land, buildings, stores, materials. Losses due to, compensation from Ministry of Munitions, losses due to sale of stocks…. 0. “ The consumption of Tungsten ore in the first half of 1920 was every bit as large as the consumption during the war, which is proved by the fact that the large surplus stocks left on the British Government’s hands at the time of the armistice have been completely absorbed. Once trade is normal again the demand will no doubt shew an increase, as tungsten steel is now almost universally in use for tools and also for the manufacture of motor cars parts and other machinery. 0. Turned Down! 0. As you were informed at the last general meeting, before the official termination of the war, the Imperial Government requested producers to stop shipments under their contracts which were technically in force for six months after a date to be fixed by the Imperial Government announcing the termination of the war. They pointed out that the increase of stocks would affect the market at a later date and promised at the same time to pay compensation at the rate of 30 per cent per unit on any ore that would have been produced and in this event allowing for probable increased production due to development work etc. On the strength of this promise, we, amongst others, stopped shipments assuming that we would receive fair treatment for having assisted the Government during the war in every way to increase the supply of Tungsten ores which were absolutely essential to them. Australian shippers on the other hand refused to comply with the Government’s request and continued both shipments and to receive payment in full. Mr. Russell and myself had several interviews with members of the Ministry of Munitions who however argued that no compensation was due to us as we were not actual producers. We pointed out to them that had it not been for the pioneering work of the Eastern Tungsten Company practically no Tungsten ores would have been produced in the F.M.S. which they admitted; at the same time, they, however, argued that, as we were not actually mining, we did not come under the compensation scheme. 0. We consulted Messrs. Budd, Johnson, Jecks and Colclough, a prominent firm of lawyers in the City, and they were of the opinion that, not having an actual written agreement, we would have a very uphill task to establish any but a normal claim and that in any case the proceedings would cost a great deal of money. They said that we should have refused to stop shipping like the Australians who did not rely on vague Government promises. We came therefore to the decision not to go to Court and on my return to London in February I again called on the Ministry and after a frightful struggle eventually got the Ministry to make us an ex gratia payment of £5,000,- which is about one fifth of the amount we claim we ought to have received from Government. 0. Smashing the market 0. A matter which affected us even more than this repudiation of the Ministry’s promise of compensation is the fact that they deliberately smashed the market in tungsten ores by selling their large stocks, which had cost them a minimum of 65 shillings, at 30 shillings and less. This naturally created also as slump in American and our stocks, these became almost unsaleable, while buyers of ore refused to take delivery and a number of American firms went into liquidation. We carefully considered with American lawyers the advisability of taking proceedings against these defaulting buyers but eventually decided that it was no good throwing good money after bad. As already mentioned, the British Government stocks, which they announced would be sufficient for two years thus further depressing the market, were absorbed in six months, but, nevertheless, with the general slump in trade Tungsten has been affected like all other commodities and prices have not yet recovered. 0. I feel, however, confident that better times are ahead of us as there is no doubt that Tungsten steel will in future be used to a very great extent. The production of mixed ores has, due to the fall in price, so largely decreased that your directors decided not to open the Prai Mills. The separating machinery is being transferred to Padu, while the rest of the plant as well as buildings will be sold.”…move report be approved….” The sum of $2,000 was voted to the directors in remuneration of their services for the past year. 0. Mr. J. A. Russell and the Hon. Mr. H. P. Clodd were re-elected to seats on the board.... auditors…A vote of thanks was passed to Messrs A. A. Hengeller and J. A. Russell for their services on the company’s behalf while in Europe…. Vote of thanks to chairman and directors. 0. (1679 words)

LETTER FROM SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR TO J.A.RUSSELL ESQ. 13TH NOVEMBER 1920 Kuala Lumpur, 13th November, 1920 (16) in 1627/20 Sir, I am directed to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 10th November enquiring whether the Government would have any objection to your asking His Excellency the High Commissioner to grant you an interview regarding your application of 50,000 acres of land for the cultivation of Sugar and in reply to inform you that you request for an interview with His Excellency the High Commissioner should be addressed to the Honourable the Acting Chief Secretary to Government to whom your application for 50,000 acres of land has been submitted. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant ?C Hanson Secretary to Resident, Selangor

Letter: T.G.S. From: C.W. Harrison, Secretary to the Resident of Selangor, Kuala Lumpur. To: Captain A. S. Jelf, Acting Under Secretary to Government, Federated Malay States, Kuala Lumpur. November 1920. ?el. (2) 5173/1920 Application by Mr. R. C. Russell of Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co., Kuala Lumpur, for agricultural lands. Sir, I am directed to report the receipt of an application by Mr. R. C. Russell of Messrs. J. A. Russell & Co., Kuala Lumpur for agricultural rights over an area of approximately 1500 acres of State land in the Mukim of Serendah as shewn in pink outline on the attached tracing A. Tracing to be returned. 2. The land is available and it is undulating to hilly land suitable for rubber cultivation, adjoining the Rantau Panjang Forest Reserve. The area, may in the near future, be traversed by the proposed road from Kundang to Kuala Kerling and by the continuation of the Kuala Garing Road from Rawang. It is accessible by public road from Sungei Choh and then by access reserves or through Sungei Choh Estate. 3. The applicant is reported to hold no land in the State but has ample capital. 4. I am able to say that the Resident recommends approval on the following terms and special conditions: (a) Premium $100 per acre. (b) Rent $1/- per annum for the first six years and $4/- per annum thereafter. (c) Ten per cent of the area shall be reserved from the cultivation of any products other than annual food crops, such area to be approved and marked on the plan by the collector of Land Revenue. (d) No timber rights (e) one tenth of this area shall be brought under effective cultivation annually from the date of occupation. (f) Labour condition will be that to be approved at the next Conference of Residents. (g) The right is reserved to resume any area required for any public purpose free of compensation other than for such trees of economic value as are destroyed in the execution of any public purpose. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Secretary to the Resident, Selangor. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia Ulu Selangor 5173/1920

Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 23 December 1920, Page 394  and Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 17 December 1920, Page 6 0. The marriage of Mr. J. Swanstone, of the Malayan Collieries, Ltd., and Miss Ethel England, daughter of Mr. E. England, acting manager of the Malayan Collieries and Mrs. England, takes place at St Mary'- Church. Kuala Lumpur, on December 29th. (39 words)

THE RUBBER CRISIS. [Articles] The Straits Times, 29 December 1920, Page 9 and RUBBER CRISIS. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 30 December 1920, Page 403 RUBBER CRISIS. RECOMMENDATIONS OF COMMITTEE. LEGISLATION REQUIRED. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Kuala Lumpur, Dec 29. 0. To-day's rubber meeting resolved nem con "That this meeting of representatives of all planting associations in Malaya and other bodies in Malaya, having interest in the rubber growing industry, approves and supports the recommendations formulated by the special committee which met on Dec. 19th at Kuala Lumpur” The following is a report of the meeting held on 19th December:- A special Committee formed at the suggestion of the Chief Secretary to consider and recommend measures to help meet the present position of the rubber producing industry met in Kuala Lumpur on Dec .19th says the Malay Mail. There were present:- The Hon. W. Duncan Chairman, the Hon. H. P. Clodd, the Hon. R. C. M Kindersley, Mr. W. Lowther Kemp, The Hon. Mr. John Mitchell, Messrs. T. J. Cumming, N. Freeman, J.S. Ferguson, V. Gibbons, C.D. Mathewson, C. Ritchie, J. A. Russell and Major W. M. Sime O.B.E. After discussion the following recommendations were unanimously adopted: 1. That in view of the necessity for immediate action the most effective remedy for the present condition of affairs is to prevent by legislation rubber being put on the market. 2 That it is most desirable that other countries (Ceylon, the Netherlands Indies, etc.) should take similar action, and that Government be requested to approach them on the subject, but that, without waiting for the result of this, legislation in Malaya is essential, and such legislation should be introduced as soon as possible and be operative from Jan 1st, 1921. 3. That as the primary object of legislation is to reduce production as well as stocks, restriction of collection would be the most desirable method, but if this is considered impracticable, restriction should be effected by prohibition of export except under permit, or by a prohibitive duty on rubber exported in excess of the restricted allowance. 0. 4. That the restricted allowance for the period from Jan 1st 1921 to June 30th 1921, should be 50 per cent of the actual production of the corresponding period in 1920. In cases where authentic figures are not obtainable the allowance should be fixed by Boards to be established, or by District Officers, as the case may be, and should not exceed 80lbs. per acre for the 6 months in question. Cases in which the above rules may apply unfairly should be dealt with by boards, who should also have discretionary powers to deal with abnormal cases. That no exemption of small holdings should be made for the following reasons:- (a) The small holder is not an exporter but sells to a dealer. (b) It is essential to the success of the scheme that all rubber exported should be identified. (c) Whether small holdings are, or are not included, some machinery for such identification is necessary, though it would be neither possible nor essential to a avoid all leakage. 6. That the ports of Singapore and Penang should left free for the import and export of local foreign rubber, but that means should be found to include in the scheme of restriction rubber produced in these islands. 7. Financial assistance required for mature areas should be granted conditionally on cessation of all production for 6 months from the date when the loan is granted. 0. 8. That financial assistance should be given if possible to immature areas of 2 and half years or over. 9. That the extent of financial aid given should not exceed $3.00 per acre per month. 10 That applications for help should for the present be considered by the Planter’s Loan Board. 11. That with regard to security the Committee hopes that, where a first charge is impossible, individual cases will be dealt with on their merits. 12. That no dividends should be declared until loans are repaid and that 50 per cent of all nett profits should be applied to repayment. 13. That for the present simple interest should be calculated half yearly at 7 per cent per annum and added to the loan. To make the foregoing recommendations operative legislation would have to be introduced in the Colony, and the Federated and non-Federated States. Their adoption would in the opinion of the committee affect other features of the present position and it was unanimously agreed that the following opinion and additional recommendations (not requiring legislation) be submitted: (1) A reduction of output to 50 per cent of 1920 crops would make it impossible for many estates to employ as much labour as they now employ and the result would be an increase in the number of labourers released. (2) The Committee believes that Chinese labour is even now finding its way back to China in considerable numbers and that this depletion of that class of labour will continue. They, however, consider it likely that there will remain in this country for some months fair numbers of Chinese who will find it difficult to procure work. (3) Indian labourers are less independent than Chinese and will to a great extent look to their employers and to the Government for employment. Moreover as Indians as a class are considered to be more suitable generally than the Chinese as permanent workers on estates the committee are of the opinion that effort should be made by employers and by Government to retain them here and to provide them with employment. (4) In view of the above opinions the Committee urge that Government take action as soon as possible to provide relief works for a portion of the labour which is likely to be thrown out of employment. Such works in the opinion of the Committee should include anti-malaria measures, the widening and putting into good repair of some of the existing roads, the making of new roads, extensions to railways and the carrying out of any other public works. The Committee will take steps to appeal to employers to do what they can within their financial power to avoid discharging labour. (5) The committee believe that all classes of labourers in this country fully realize the gravity of the present situation and that they would be content to work temporarily at rates of wages which would provide them with the bare necessities of life. In that belief they recommend that Government call upon all labour employing departments to reduce wages temporarily. (6) The Committee are of the opinion that a further reduction in the price of rice would tend to reduce the cost of living generally and that any additional loss which the government would incur by doing so, would be counterbalanced by lower wages payable and by a reduction in the price of contract labour and of locally produced materials. They therefore recommend a reduction in the price of rice as from Jan 1st 1921 and also the discontinuance of the rice allowance now granted to labourers and subordinate employees. (7) The Committee believe that the Indian Immigration Committee have a large balance at credit in their fund and recommend that payment of assessment due in respect of the 4th quarter of 1920 be waived, and that also that payments due to employers, as recruiting rebate for the same period be cancelled. The Committee recommend that until such time as statistics are available from which a reliable forecast of the future of the rubber industry can be formed, no further areas of land should be alienated for rubber. (9) The Committee recommend that for a time and as a measure of financial relief land rents be made payable and colleted twice a year, on 1st June and 1st December. 0. It was decided to call through the medium of the Press, a meeting of representatives of all planting associations in this country to be held in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday Dec 29th at 11.30 am at which the Committee’s recommendations be submitted for approval and acceptance. A Sub–Committee consisting of Messrs. Clodd, Lowther, Kemp, Gibbons and Duncan were appointed to take steps to have the recommendations of the Committee elaborated and presented to Government in the form of a concrete scheme. (1368 words)