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For the descendents of Richard Dearie and his son John Russell


1921 The Borneo Coal Field. [Articles] The Straits Times, 28 January 1921, Page 8
 The Borneo Coal Field. Yesterday Mr. England and party with 200 Chinese miners left for Malayan Collieries' new coal property at Pamoekan Bay, in Borneo, which the F.M.S. company mentioned is developing for bunkering trade purposes with a view to meeting the needs of local shipping for a low-priced steam coal. The S.S. Nanyo Maru is due in Port Swettenham within a few days’ time to take the new mine a shipment of plants and stores. There is already a labour force of some 200 men on the newly acquired Colliery so there will shortly be about 500 miners there and arrangements have been made to increase this force to over 1,000 men. A small steamer for use on the Borneo coast has been purchased by the Company in China and is on her way down, while contracts are being entered into for chartering steamers to carry coal to Singapore; one of which has already been chartered and is on the run. We understand that the property has no connection with Seboekoe, which was floated some two years ago in Singapore; but is mine which is already producing coal and which has been fully reported on and bored by Malayan Collieries’ own Engineers. It is claimed that its coal is superior for bunkering purposes to any coal yet discovered or produced in Borneo and that even with the primitive methods by which it has been hitherto mined, or rather blasted out, thereby producing an excessive percentage of dust and ash, it has given good results, comparing favourably with most Japanese and Indian bunkering fuels on the market. (269 words)

LETTER FROM SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR TO THE UNDER SECRETARY, F.M.S., KUALA LUMPUR. 2ND FEBRUARY 1921 (18) IN 1627/1920 Sir, I am directed to refer to your letter dated the 16th July, 1920 in your correspondence No.G. 1675/1920 on the subject of an application by Messrs. Russell & Company for 50,000 acres of land in the Mukim of Tanjong Karang for Sugar cultivation and to enquire whether a reply you promised therein will be now sent. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Sd. N.F.H. Mather Secretary to Resident Selangor. From National Archives of Malaysia 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

Page 6 Advertisements Column 4 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 3 February 1921, Page 6
 . MALAYAN COLLERIES LTD Issue of Bonus shares. 0. Notice is hereby given that share certificates for the 30,000 fully paid shares of $10 each in the above Company, issued in accordance with the terms of the resolution passed at an extraordinary general meeting of the Company, held at its Registered Offices on January 14, 1921, to members whose names appear on the register of shareholders at January 14, 1921 in the proportion of one bonus share for every five held have now been dispatched to the last registered address appearing in the books of the Company. Malayan Collieries Ltd. J. A. Russell and Co. Managing Agents & Secretaries. Kuala Lumpur. F.M.S. February 1, 1921

The Malay Mail, Friday February 4, 1921 MALAYAN COLLIERIES. The New Coal Property. The s.s. Nanyo Maru has arrived direct from the property of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., in Borneo and is at present lying in Port Swettenham loading supplies for this new mine recently acquired by the above mentioned company. Messrs. England and Hastings with a large party of miners went across to the mine a fortnight ago, while Messrs. Swanstone and Brickman, the latter of whom has only just returned from the property, leave the Nanyo Maru this afternoon. The Nanyo Maru is one of the steamers chartered by Malayan Collieries, Ltd., for carrying its coal and sails from Port Swettenham straight to Pamoekan Bay where Malayan Collieries Ltd., has its own wharves connected by a line direct with its mine, which latter is only about a mile from the harbour. We understand that this mine produces good bunkering coal claimed to be superior to any other Borneo coal and the Nanu Maru made a very fine trip from the mine to Singapore, the captain obtaining better steaming results from burning Pamoekan Bay (Gunong Batu Besar) coal than he had previously done with Indian. We are informed that the property has no connection with the Seboekoe mine which was floated into a Singapore Company some two years ago, and subsequently went into liquidation, being separated from the latter by over 100 miles distance. The development of this new colliery has been under way for the last year and definite contacts for the sale of coal have been entered into with local shipping firms. Production on a commercial scale will commence from the beginning of next month.

Letter from the District Officer, Kinta, to Secretary to the Resident, Perak, Taiping. $ February, 1921. 8 in K.L.O. 1006-20 Kinta District Office, Batu Gajah, 4 February, 1921. SUBJECT. Application from Mr. J. A. Russell of Kuala Lumpur for a Prospecting Licence over 450 acres of land at Kampar. Sir, I have the honour to report that Mr. J. A. Russell of Kuala Lumpur has applied for a Prospecting Licence over 450 acres of land bordering the Kampar river at Chulet in the Mukim of Kampar. 2. The land is shown outlined in red on tracing enclosed. It is available state land and is not required for any other purposes. 3. The Warden of Mines has no objection to the issue of the Prospecting Licence provided the Kampar river is excluded from the area applied for. 4. Mr. Russell owns 25 acres with no coolies. 5 I recommend the grant of a prospecting Licence subject to the exclusion of the Kampar River on the terms following: - (a) Fee- $25/- (b) Period – six months (c) Right to select the whole area or blocks of not less than 100 acres each on the usual terms. (d) Prospecting results to be furnished to the Warden of Mines. (e) Deposit of $300/- against pitting. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, so/- Meadows Frost, District Officer. Kinta. The Secretary to the Resident, Perak, Taiping. (Map of Mukim of Kampar attached) Document in the National Archives of Malaysia. Kinta Land Office. 1006/1920 Transcribed by C.G.

LETTER FROM THE ACTING UNDER SECRETARY, F.M.S. TO SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR 11TH FEBRUARY 1921 G.1675/1920 11th February 1921 Sir, With reference to your correspondence 1627/20 on the subject of an application by Messrs. Russell & Co for land in the Mukim of Tanjong Karang for Sugar cultivation, I am directed to enclose for reference a copy of the conditions approved for the alienation of land for this purpose and to enquire what is now recommended as to the alienation of the land applied for. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, ?A R Cooke Ag:Under Secretary, F.M.S.

UNTITLED AND UNDATED (17) 1627/20 The Government is prepared to consider applications for land for the cultivation of cane sugar on the following terms:- Title Lease for 14 years for the cultivation of cane sugar with a right to renewal for periods of 14 years for every acre so cultivated. Conditions 1. premium nil. of title 2. Rent free for first three years thereafter at $1/- per acre. 3. Conditions of cultivation as laid down in Section 3 of the Country Lands Cultivation Enactment. 4. Sugar only many be cultivated provided that annual food crops may be grown as a Rotation Crop. 5. Export Duty free from 1/1/1922-31/12/1926 and not to exceed 2 ½ % ad valorem from 1/1/1927-31/12/1931 6. A factory of sufficient capacity to deal with the crop on the area leased to be erected within 2 years. From National Archives of Malaysia 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 14 February 1921, Page 8
 0. The long expected expert engaged by Malayan Matches. Ltd., Mr. Simons late of Messrs. Bryant and May. Ltd., arrived at Penang with his wife on Friday by the Kashmir, and is proceeding to the company’s factory at Batu Arang, Selangor. (40 words)The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 15 February 1921, Page 6
 and The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 17 February 1921, Page 105
 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1921. The expert for Malayan Matches, Ltd., Mr. Simons, late of Messrs. Bryant and May Ltd., arrived at Penang by the Kashmir, and left for Batu Arang, Selangor.

0. Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 22 February 1921, Page 8
 The Glenapp, which is unloading at Port Swettenham a shipment of plant and materials of all kinds for the F.M.S., has on board, amongst other machinery, a locomotive, by Messrs. Manning Wardle and Co., of Hunslet, for the Malayan Collieries, Ltd., which company possesses on its Batu Arang property approximately four miles of private lines and sidings on which two locomotives of British make are already running. (66 words) 


Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 24 February 1921, Page 6
 Mr. D. J. Simons writes contradicting the report which has been circulated in Malaya to the effect that “the long-expected expert engaged by Malayan Matches Ltd., Mr. Simons, late of Messrs. Bryant and May, Ltd., has arrived at Penang, and is proceeding to the company's factory at Batu Arang, Selangor." (50 words)

Malay Mail 3 March 1921 and SELANGOR MINERS MEET. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 March 1921, Page 14
 and SELANGOR MINERS MEET. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 10 March 1921, Page 151
 0. Selangor Miners Emergency Meeting Decision to Economise An emergency meeting of the Selangor Miners Association was held yesterday afternoon in the association’s rooms, Petaling Street. The meeting was well attended by those Chinese interested in the tin industry. Mr. Choo Kia Peng, who presided, opened the proceedings by reviewing the present critical situation and the causes that have led to it. (Summary: decision to reduce wages, reduce fire wood used, approach Malayan Collieries asking for price of coal to be reduced, ask landlords for reduced rates, ask Government to reduce price of rice, and export duty on tin till end of crisis. Sub committees formed. AGM to be held on 18th.)

Malay Mail 18 March 1921 Selangor Miners: The Annual Meeting Increased Working Costs. The annual meeting of the Selangor Miners’ association was held in the Association’s building, Birch Road, Kuala Lumpur, at noon today. Mr. Choo Kia Peng, (President) took the chair. The Chairman in his address to the meeting said: (Summary: price of tin causing anxiety, F.M.S. Chamber of Mines wrote to London Chamber of Mines to enlist support from Cornwall and Nigarian Chamber of Mines to approach Government jointly about fixing price. One group did not agree, did not want to upset laws of supply and demand. We consider our product differs because speculators manipulate it. Article in Straits Echo by Mr. Thomas with scheme to safeguard industry, miners recommended to read it. Local Government has helped. Government has suspended buying. Very bad time. As long as there is an open market arguments will be made to do away with Government interference. Change of Government policy may be a blessing; a free market means fresh money coming into country. Cost of production, no accurate statistics for Chinese mines. Increased cost of working. Chinese mines not making profits. Some think that most expensive Chinese mines should go to the wall. Assumption that Chinese mines are too expensively run is misrepresentation of facts. Problem with having no proper figures. Some fictitious figures. Chinese mines have not kept proper statistics. Working costs per yard should be kept. Speculators on tin exchange live on statistics. Table of comparative statement of principle items of expenditure 1913-14 and 1920 for wages, fuel, coal, engines, oil, trucks, rice, planks attap, firewood. Can’t arrive at exact figures. Difficulties in Peretak over leases. Affects of 6 years of war. Try to bring costs of tin production down. Will be recovery in tin as there is no serious increased production.)

Malay Mail Saturday 19 March 1921 Selangor Miners. Yesterdays Meeting. New Office Bearers. (Summary: Chairman asked for questions. Association to collect more comprehensive statistics in future, all miners to keep detailed reports on working costs, to send to London Chamber of Mines, to do away with talk of making huge profits. Chairman resigned as President. “ They wanted now somebody who knew the industry quite well to help them carry on and he was glad to inform them that Mr. J. A. Russell had consented to stand for nomination. (Hear Hear). Of course Mr. Russell was a very busy man and he had consented on the condition that he (the Chairman) should assist him. His resignation from the chairman ship did not mean that he was going to do nothing. If they wanted him he would serve on the committee.” Need to elect active members in difficult crisis; he suggested Messrs. Proust and Robbins. Mr. Proust a practical miner. Election of office bearers. Messrs. J. A. Russell, President, Choo Kia Peng. J.P., Vice President, and Committee of Chew Cam Chuan, Hoh Man Koh, Yew Kee, Lee Man Pun, Low Leong Gan, Ng Peng Sen, Rene Proust, H.H. Robbins, Yap Loong Him J.P. Election of three representatives to send to F.M.S. Chamber of Mines. Nominate J. A. Russell, Choo Kia Peng and Lee Man Pun. Mar 31st meeting decisions, committees formed, wages reduced, appeal to reduce rents, appeal to Government to reduce taxes and cost of rice. Government response on 12th unsatisfactory. Reduction in rice costs promised on 10 April, and now said to be May. Large proportion of workforce’s pay goes on rice. Question to be brought forward again at Chamber of Mines meeting. Appeal to railways not to increase freights unsatisfactory. Will make further appeals. “ Finally we appealed to Malayan Collieries to reduce their coal prices and received an answer on Mar 15 offering us a rebate of 15 per cent which is generous of them and they are helping us very much whilst other commodity vendors are doing nothing. We have already written them a letter of thanks” London Chamber of Mines asked them by telegram to do all these things. Meeting closed.)

FROM MALAYAN COLLIERIES PP J.A.RUSSELL & CO. TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT SELANGOR. 21ST MARCH 1921 Kuala Lumpur 21st March 1921 Sir, With reference to the conversation between yourself and Mr. Geo. Dickinson, representing Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd, upon the subject of an excision from our title M.L. No.2549 Portion No. 1285 District of Ulu Selangor, we have the honour to confirm that we are prepared to agree to the exclusion of an area of 30 acres from our property as shown on the tracing A hereto attached. 2. The 30 acres in question comprise the area upon which is erected the factory and bungalows of Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd. 3. Borings have proved that this area does not contain coal. 4. We believe that you are aware of the circumstances under which permission was granted by us to Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., to erect their factory upon this land. 5. It was originally hoped by Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., that they would be able to erect the factory upon that part of the Forest Reserve over which they possess a licence, it being essential that the factory should be as contiguous as possible to their source of matchwood supply. 6. It is also essential that the factory should be on a railway line, and an arrangement was accordingly made with our Company to allow Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., to prolong our private sidings to their factory site. 7. It was, however, eventually found that before Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., could erect their factory within the Forest Reserve, a part of the Reserve would first have to be revoked, a course of action which the Forest Office did not desire and which would in any case have meant a serious delay of several months’ time. 8. Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., then suggested to us that as they would probably be taking fuel or power from us, we should allow them to erect their factory upon the edge of our property at a site adjacent to the Forest reserve, which site had already by borings been proved not to contain coal. 9. Although the amount of fuel which Malayan Matches, Ltd., may be taking from us is not likely to be great, in order to assist a sister industry of considerable economic value to the country in a difficulty, we agreed to their proposal. 10. Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., now inform us that they find that the absence of a title direct from Government and in their own name is a serious disadvantage to them, and they have therefore asked us to agree to the excision of the area occupied by them from our property, to which course we understand that Government is agreeable, and they have further requested us to address to you this letter confirming our consent. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants Malayan Collieries Ltd., p.p. J.A.Russell & Co signed H.H.Robbins Managing Agents and Secretaries. From National Archives of Malaysia. Sel 1353/21 Transcribed by P.C

Page 7 Advertisements Column 4 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 23 March 1921, Page 7 0. Federated Malay States Enactment No. 20 of I9l7 (Section 204). NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION. JERANTUT PLANTATIONS, LIMITED At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the above named Company, duly convened and held at the Registered Offices, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, on Monday, February 28, 1921, the following Extraordinary Resolution was duly passed: “That the Company be wound up Voluntarily” 0. And at further extraordinary general meeting duly convened and held at the same place on Tuesday, March 15, 1921, the above extraordinary resolution was duly confirmed as a special resolution, and the following extraordinary resolution was passed:- “ That Henry David Brown and Hubert Harry Robbins, both of Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Buildings, Kuala Lumpur, be and they are hereby appointed Liquidators jointly and or severally for the purposes of such winding up. 0. J.A. Russell, Chairman. Dated March 15, 1921. 0. Below this notice the creditors are told to contact the liquidators, and another notice states that meeting of creditors is to take place on April 4, 1921 at 11 o ‘clock. (576 words)

(This was a rubber estate but no mention of it can be found in the Straits Times prior to 1921, it is mentioned in the Straits Times of 31 July 1931 as belonging to the Djember Rubber Estates whose general meeting is held in London.)

Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 23 March 1921, Page 6 and Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 24 March 1921, Page 188 Mr. J. Russell has been elected President of the Selangor Miners' Association. The Malayan Collieries Co. is allowing miners a rebate of 15 per cent during the tin slump.

The Malay Mail Wednesday March 30, 1921 Malayan Commerce. The F.M.S. Chamber Fifth Annual Report From the fifth annual report of the F.M.S Chamber of Commerce. (Summary: Sir. Laurence Guillemard new High Commissioner paid his first official visit to F.M.S. New branch of chamber opened at Negri Sembilan. Free market for tin in new year. Price rose, till Feb. then fell steadily. Series of meetings held by Chinese miners in Perak and Selangor petitioned Government to adopt scheme of purchasing. Chief Secretary had interviews with miner’s representatives, Government agreed to purchase tin on Dec 6th. 2 smelting companies appointed as agents of Government. High demand for tin from America. Demand for Tungsten from Europe as high as during war Slump in trade and loss of demand prices reduced, no ore can be mined at profit. Production practically ceased. Strong demand rubber at start of year. Prices steady. Prices declined. Total exports. Heavy falls in prices serious affect on all producers of rubber. Attempt made to restrict output. Effective reduction can only be achieved through Rubber Growers Association. Government approached but will not act unless unanimous request from industry. Accurate figures difficult to obtain. Estimates of stocks on 31 Dec. 1920. 1920 good for coconuts. Firewood. In January labour absorbed in tin or rubber so scarcity of firewood with high prices. With decline labour was released for wood cutting, prices fell. Fuel scarce in first half of year accentuated by fire at Rawang Colliery of Messrs. Malayan Collieries Ltd. Rise to co-op organisation to stimulate growing and control of distribution of firewood, helped by railway. Owing to this pool and the increasing development of the Rawang coalfield, the year 1920 at its close saw ample firewood supplies at reduced rates. Becoming more scarce, and it is hoped that industry will die out. Coal. “Coal, either locally produced or imported is now the principle fuel and is becoming more and more so. The only local coalfield is that at Batu Arang near Rawang in Selangor which is owned and operated by Messrs. Malayan Collieries Ltd. During the year this field produced 248,000 tons as against 191,000 tons during 1919, an increase of 30 %. This increase should have been much greater but for a serious fire in the main airway which accident, practically arresting production in one of the mines, seriously reduced outputs for three of the middle months of the year. The position now, however, is that development on the field is so far advanced as to make available for distribution during 1921 and thereafter quantities amply sufficient to meet all likely local fuel demands. The output for the second half of the year showed an increase in 50% over the first and the Colliery is now producing at the rate of 400,000 tons per annum, which output could easily if needed be further increased. Prices during 1920 remained practically unaltered, the average over the year to all consumers being $9 per ton f.o.r. pit-head. Railway rolling stock was ample during the last months of the year to handle increased output and no anxiety is felt in this connection in respect of the coming twelve months. With easier labour conditions, prices during 1921 are expected to show a decline, but the greater proportion of this may unfortunately be off-set to consumers by the recent 25% increase in railway freights rates.” Ipoh property market, value of land high. Sale of properties of the late Sultan Idris. General depression led to few buyers at the end of the year. Government has been compulsorily resuming land for public purposes. Shortage of dwelling accommodation. Property in K.L. Numerous transactions in early part of year, high prices, become unobtainable, remainder of year no transactions.)

Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 4 April 1921, Page 6
 and MONDAY, APRIL 4, 1921. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 7 April 1921, Page 216
 MONDAY, APRIL 4, 1921. Last year the Malayan Collieries, Ltd produced 248,000 tons of coal. The output would have been greater but for a serious fire in the main airway. The output this year should, however, be more than ample to meet all requirements. (265 words)

LOCAL WIRES. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 2 April 1921, Page 6 and LOCAL WIRES. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 7 April 1921, Page 211 LOCAL WIRES. K. L. RUBBER MEETINGS. (From Our Own Correspondent.) 0. Kuala Lumpur, April 1. At the New Serendah Rubber Meeting, Mr. A. K. E. Hampshire, who presided, said that the cash resources of the Company were $80,000, but no dividend would be declared. The crop was being restricted by 50 per cent. Messrs. Ferrers and Hampshire were re-elected directors. The Kamasan Rubber meeting was presided over by Mr. E. W. Tyler, who said that the cash position of the Company was exceptionally strong. The crop estimate was half the normal, and it was anticipated that there would be a monthly loss of $500 on the present price of rubber. The directors intend to adopt alternate day tapping. Messrs. J. A. Russell and Kennaway were re-elected directors. (133 words)

LETTER FROM J.A.RUSSELL & CO TO THE SECRETARY TO THE RESIDENT SELANGOR 5th APRIL 1921 1627/20 J.A.Russell & Co. Kuala Lumpur 5th April 1921 Sir, In reply to your letter of the 29th March, numbered (20) in 1627/20, on the subject of our application for 50,000 acres of land for sugar cultivation in the district of Kuala Selangor, we have the honour to say that under present financial conditions we are unable to state positively that we are in a position to proceed at the present moment with our application. 2. We would point out that when we first applied for this land, we were definitely able to raise the sum of two-million sterling for sugar planting, and , indeed, suggested to the Government that we should be prepared to accept a Government condition to the effect that unless the sum of at least one million sterling were deposited in a bank, the land be forfeited. 3. We had two men working on the matter for over 6 months, cut rentises and examined soil, gathered data as to cane growing in this country, analysed native cane, made arrangements for an irrigation engineer from Egypt and for expert sugar planters and chemists, obtained quotations for plant, in fact devoted months of time, energy, salaries and expenses to the affair. 4. Sugar was booming at the period and our friends in Java only too anxious to go to any reasonable lengths in order to start a large plantation in this country. We suggested to the Government our willingness to plant up a large proportion of the land in rice or to carry out any other Government ideas or stipulations. We asked for no financial assistance, but only to know as early as possible the Government’s terms. We were willing to engage our irrigation expert from Egypt and to submit his irrigation plan to Government for sanction before commencing work. We urged the Forest office to visit the land and to confirm that it contained no valuable timber; and eventually got them to do so. Our Java friends were pressing us the whole time for permission to invest their money, and we in turn pressing the Government for a decision on our application. 5. After a year’s delay, when the sugar market had collapsed and Java in extreme distress, the Government came out with its belated terms. 6. We greatly fear that the chance which existed for establishing the sugar industry in this country has passed certainly for the present and perhaps for ever. A planting industry which requires half a million pounds for a factory alone is not easily established. We bitterly regret that such a unique opportunity as then existed has perhaps been irretrievably lost. 7. We are now in negotiation with a group of London sugar refiners to whom we have suggested a modification of our original scheme; but with the present modest outlook for sugar combined with the existing world-wide financial stringency we are not over sanguine of success and although not entirely without hope we are not prepared definitely to say that we are in a position to proceed with our application for another six months at least. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants, J.A.Russell The Secretary to Resident, Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia. 1627/20 Transcribed by P.C.

The Straits Echo Mail Edition. No 14, Vol 19. 6 April 1921 European Unemployment Fund. List of subscribers. J.A. Russell Esq. $250,00 (N.B. The largest amount in the list. Next largest amount was A.S. Jelf Esq. $150, and Mr. Justice Whitley $100.)

RUBBER RESTRICTION. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 8 April 1921, Page 12 and RUBBER RESTRICTION. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 14 April 1921, Page 230 0. 0. RUBBER RESTRICTION. THE PROPOSED MEASURES. 0. WHAT THE INDUSTRY SUGGESTED. . In connection with the schemes for rubber restriction and the reply of the Home Government to the Straits Government recently negativing publication of any proposed Government measure but raising no objection to non-government publication of suggested measures, we have received from the Hon’ble Mr. Duncan a series of documents dealing with the matter including recommendations, schedules a draft bill etc. 0. It is impossible owing to limitations of space, to produce these in entirety but as the matter is of great public interest we have selected from the documents those which appear to deal adequately with the schemes considered and have omitted thee actual draft of the bill and a mass of more technical matter. 0. Hon’ble Mr. Duncan to Hon’able Chief Secretary F.M.S. 0. Sir:- I have the honour to recall to your memory that a Committee representative of the rubber growing industry of Malaya met at Kuala Lumpur on 19th December, 1920, and formulated certain recommendations aimed at restricting the output of rubber, and rendering financial assistance to producers under certain conditions. 0. 2. At a public meeting called through the press, held at Kuala Lumpur on December 29th, and attended by 75 persons representing home and local rubber interests, the recommendations above, mentioned were submitted and unanimously endorsed by Resolution. 0. 3. At the same meeting, a sub-Committee was appointed to embody the recommendations in a complete scheme to be submitted to the Governments of the Colony and the Federated Malay States for their consideration. The sub-Committee comprised the following:- The Honourables Mr. W. Lowther Kemp, and H. P. Clodd, Major W. M. Sime O.B.E., Mr. V. Gibbons and the writer. 0. 4. This sub- Committee took preliminary steps at once, and on 11th and 12th January 1921 at Singapore, with the help of the Honourable Mr. D. Y. Perkins as legal advisor, framed a draft scheme. 0. 6. The scheme comprises the following:- 0. (Summary, restrict exports, set of 29 rules, 10 schedules, reasons for both, 8 rules for guidance of committees issuing certificates of production, draft telegram, with all points of the scheme.) 0. 7. The question of financial assistance has not been included in this scheme and will be dealt with separately. 0. 8. The main features of the scheme as now presented have the support of the Council of Rubber Growers Association in London and, as evidence of that support, I enclose copies of six cablegrams (not printed) which have passed between Mr. Eric Miller and the Secretary of the Rubber Growers Association on the one side and myself on the other. 0. 9. As the attitude of the Government towards the scheme now submitted is all important to the rubber growing industry in Malaya, as well as the general public, I should, on behalf of the sub–committee and the industry, feel grateful if you could see your way to treat your consideration of the documents as an urgent matter. 0. 10. I would add that I shall hold myself in readiness to wait upon the Government at any time and give any information or explanations regarding the scheme which I can. 0. Details of Committee Action. 0. 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 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. 0. After discussion the following Recommendations were unanimously adopted: 0. 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. 0. 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. 0. 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. 0. 5. That no exemption of small holdings should be made for the following reasons:- 0. (a) The small holder is not an exporter but sells to a dealer. 0. (b) It is essential to the success of the scheme that all rubber exported should be identified. 0. (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. 0. 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. 0. 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. 0. 9. That the extent of financial aid given should not exceed $3.00 per acre per month. 0. 10 That applications for help should for the present be considered by the Planter’s Loan Board. 0. 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. 0. 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. 0. 13. That for the present simple interest should be calculated half yearly at 7 per cent per annum and added to the loan. 0. Legislation needed. 0. 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: 0. 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. 0. 2. The Committee believe 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. 0. 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. 0. 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. 0. (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. 0. Rice Reduction Recommended 0. (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. 0. (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. 0. (8) 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. 0. (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. 0. The question Of Financial Help. 0. Letter from Hon’ble Mr. Duncan to Chief Secretary F.M.S. 0. Sir, - In relation to my letter to you of this date (Jan. 25) on the subject of restriction of rubber production and exports, I have now the honour, on behalf of the rubber restriction sub-Committee, to address you on the subject of financial assistance to rubber producers in the Federated Malay States. 0. 2. In the minutes of the meeting of the special Committee held at Kuala Lumpur on 19th December 1920 (copy of which I sent you to-day) the views of the members of that Committee in regard to the question of financial assistance are expressed in recommendations 7 to 13 inclusive thereof. 0. 3. At a public meeting held in Kuala Lumpur on 29th December 1920, these recommendations were approved. 0. 4. At an informal meeting held at Carcosa on 4th January 1921 at which were present five of the six members of the Federal Council, the recommendations referred to above (not printed) were discussed, and the following general opinions of the unofficials present were arrived at:- 0. (a) That no financial assistance should be given in respect of areas of rubber planted after 1st January 1918; (b) That no assistance be given to any Company or Syndicate that paid a dividend since 1st July 1920; (c) That in recommendation 10 of the minutes referred to, the words “ the Planters Loans Board” should be deleted, and the words “ A Central Committee to be appointed” substituted therefore; (d) That in recommendation 11 of the minutes referred to all the words following “Committee” in the first line should be deleted, and the following words substituted “ recommend that every loan should be secured by charge”; (e) That in recommendation 12 the figure 7 should be substituted by the figure seven and half. 0. 5. The members of the sub-Committee fully realise that Government have not got unlimited funds at their disposal, and that any measure of financial assistance rendered must of necessity be limited. They believe, however, whether restriction is enforced by law or not that timely financial assistance would save some deserving producers from ruin, and that such assistance is justifiable and defensible in the interests of the rubber industry and of the General Public. 0. 6. The sub-Committee, therefore, suggest that Government should, without delay, take action on the following lines:- 0. I. Let it be known publicly by notification in the Government Gazette and in the press that Government will consider applications for financial assistance on the following conditions- 0. (a) All applications to be made on the proscribed form to be had on application from District Officers. 0. (b) All executed application forms to be lodged with the District Officer of the District in which the land is situated in which the land is situated on which the loan is required. 0. (c) That loans granted in respect of areas in bearing must be on condition that tapping ceases on such areas for a period of 6 months from the date of the payment of the first installment. 0. II. Let it be known publicly in the above manner that no loans will be granted in respect of, or to:- 0. (a) Areas planted after 1st January 1918 0. (b) Companies, Syndicates or individual owners that have paid dividends since July 1920 or who cannot show that their need for a loan has arisen through the present depression in the rubber market. 0. (c) Companies, Syndicates or individual owners that cannot offer adequate security. 0. III. Instruct District Officers, to grant application forms on request, to receive executed application forms, scrutinize and comment on them, and forward them to a Central Committee to be appointed. 0. IV. Appoint a Central Committee to comprise:- 0. A Class 1. Government Officer as Chairman, two Planters, one Merchant, A secretary. 0. This committee would receive all applications which would be forwarded with their comments by the District Officers; would in consultation with Government and with the approval of the Chief Secretary, decide as to the amount of money which could be spared and grant loans to that extent in a manner which, In their opinion would be in the best interests of the industry and the public. 0. 7. I enclose a copy of a form drawn up by the sub-Committee, which we consider would give all the information necessary to enable District Officers to make valuable comments and the Central Committee to make decisions. 0. 8. In conclusion, I would say that the sub-Committee are of the opinion that the question of financial aid should be considered apart from that of restriction of rubber production and export and would request that Government consider favorably the desirability of taking some prompt action with a view to allaying the uncertainty which at present exists in the minds of many in regard to the Government’s intentions. (2658 words)

LETTER FROM GEO. DICKINSON, MALAY MATCHES LTD. TO A.S. JELF ACTING UNDER SECRETARY, KUALA LUMPUR. 14TH APRIL 1921 MALAYAN MATCHES LTD __________ Kuala Lumpur 14th April, 1921 Sir, Your reference G. 3145/20. Further to your letter of March 31st , and our Mr Dickinson’s interview with you this morning, when it was suggested that we might be better able to get down to rock-bottom, if an interview could be arranged so that we might discuss the whole matter with the Chief Secretary. It now occurs to us, pending the possibility of such an interview, that a recital of the salient features representing our position, might assist in arriving at a final settlement of the distressing matter between us. In 1919, Mr J.A.Russell took a very active interest in the possibilities of establishing a “Match Industry” in this country. This at the time, was of paramount interest to the Government Forest Department, and certain leading Government officials, whom Mr Russell interviewed on the matter. This is evidenced by exchanged correspondence at the time, resulting in the following letter being addressed to Messrs. J.A.Russell & Co., dated 26th May, 1919, from the Secretariat:- “No. 5287/1918 Gentlemen, With reference to your letter of May 2nd on the subject of the local manufacture of Matches, I am directed to inform you that under the circumstances of this particular case this Government is prepared to waive the import duty of 100% ad valorem on Match manufacturing plant which you propose to import from India.” “With regard to you application for a timber concession on the Rantan Panjang Forest Reserve, I am to state that the Government is prepared to allow you to take a second class timber from trees selected by the Forest Department in that Reserve, with due regard to the requirements of your Match manufacturing Company, and also to agree that, for a maximum period of five years from date of formation of the Company, royalty shall be charged you on such timber only, if and to the extent by which the profits of the Company exceed 6% on the capital outlay-the royalty payable for the said period in no case to exceed that payable on similar timber from State land.” “With regard to the continuance of the present import duty on Matches, I am to state that the Government will at a convenient date bring the question of imposing for a period a duty on imported Matches before the Federal Council for consideration.” “I am to add that if coal from Malayan Collieries is used in connection with the Match manufactory, a royalty at the rate of 25 cents per ton would be payable on all coal so used.” I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Sd. W. Mackray, Ag. Under Secretary to Government. F.M.S. May we ask that you would give this letter your special consideration as evidence. (1) That Government then was anxious to do everything in its power to encourage the establishment of the Match industry in this country, to the extent that it waived the ad valorem duty on the machinery. (2) That Government gave us certain rights over the Rantu Panjang Forest Reserve. (3) And specially considered the question of importing for a period a duty on importing matches. (4) We on our part agreeing to pay a royalty at the rate of 25 cents a ton on all coal used from Malayan Collieries, Ltd. In addition to the above mentioned features of this matter, we quote the above letter as evidence also that Government was aware that our proposed Match factory would be situated somewhere between the Malayan Colliery and the Rantan Panjan Forest Reserve. We wish therefore to place it on record, that at no time has there been a secret of the intentions of those gentlemen concerned with the formation of this company. The almost overwhelming detail of sending experts to India to inspect the plant, the carrying out of timber tests, the compiling of figures for the launching of a public Company, with the fully paid capital of $505,000/-, were all matters which might account for a slight technical breach, but at no time have we felt, that in the presence of such a breach, would we be caused irremediable loss. Subconsciously we felt that any difficulty that might ultimately crop up, we should have the sympathetic ear of Government, to say the least, we at no time thought that any disabilities we might suffer would be made more difficult. Yet this is proving to be the case, practically to the point of our having to consider going into liquidation. Unauthorised buildings etc. On the question of the unauthorised building on Malayan Collieries concession. The first intimation that we had that there might be something in this, was a letter from the Collector of Land Revenue, Kuala Kubu, dated 29th October, 1920 (U.S.L. 2032/20) to J.A.Russell & Co., enquiring if Malayan Collieries Ltd., had allowed Malayan Machines Ltd., to build a Match Factory and a bungalow upon its property. To this letter a reply was sent of the 5th November, 1920, to which there has not been any reply, or intimation that we were in the wrong, until we received your letter of March 31st, 1921, nearly five months, when you refer the matter to us, as per clause 4 of your letter, as follows:- “Until, however, the matter of the unauthorised building on Malayan Collieries Concession is settled satisfactorily, it is premature to discuss the question of Mr. Gosswein’s admission to the Federated Malay States.” What we fail to understand is how these two matters, i.e., unauthorised buildings, and Gosswein’s admittance for specific and highly technical Match machine work, become related, or even dependent on one another, unless, of course, your remarks mean that Mr. Gosswein will not be necessary, as the unauthorised buildings will have to be removed. In which case we have no hesitation in saying the industrial development of this country, which is such an urgent necessity, will have received a knock-out blow, as it would be practically impossible to again influence public monies for “industrials.” Financial Disabilities In course of time we ourselves realised certain financial disabilities in not possessing a title for the land on which our factory was built, and here again frank confession was made to the Acting Chief Secretary, the Hon. Mr. Voules, when, owing to the sudden withdrawal of the authority of Mr. Gosswein’s admission into this country, we were thrown into financial difficulty. It was then definitely stated that without a title for the land on which our property was built, it was practically impossible to raise a first mortgage loan, or make an issue of debentures. To overcome this difficulty, Mr J.A.Russell offered Government his Batu Road site, payment to be deferred for two years by means of a promissory note for this period. By this means he could have financed us privately through his bankers. Delay accrued on this proposition, so that other steps had to be taken. The write interviewed Mr. Hemmant, Collector of Land Revenue, and it was arranged that an application should be sent in for a special grant of approximately 30 acres, comprising those lands on which our buildings had been erected, and to allow for the building of housing accommodation for the Match staff, Malayan Collieries having agreed to waive any rights they had over this given area. The question of Mr Gosswein. As we have already stated, we cannot understand why this matter should be interlaced with the matter of our buildings, but as you treat them together we have no alternative. Briefly the outstanding facts concerning this gentleman are as follows:- Though this man happens to be an enemy alien, he was never never a combatant one, on the contrary, owing to his specific, and rare knowledge, he was allowed by the Indian Government, to proceed in the erection of the very Match plant we now own, for the Northern India Match Co., Barielly. For the initiation of this industry in this country, we originally had the services of Mr P.A. Morley Parker, a very highly qualified engineer, who died last August through an illness contracted during the time he was inspecting this plant in India. Our other expert, a Mr. Evance, proved to be a dipsomaniac and a man of distinctly disreputable habits otherwise. He had to be sent away, and we were thus high and dry. Mr. Russell, as Chairman of Malayan Matches Ltd., had to make a special journey to London, in the hope of securing the services of Mr. E.L.Bell, (who at the time was not demobilised.) This gentleman is a member of one of the largest firms of Match makers in the world, R. Bell & Co., Ltd., London and Australia. Although it was of no personal concern to him to come to this country, our position was such that he agreed to come to our assistance, with the object mainly of bringing his influence to bear on securing us a nucleus of the right men, who, may we say, are rarer than gold. He (Mr Bell) crossed over to Berlin in search of Mr. Gosswein, Rollers expert erector. (Rollers are the largest manufacturers of Match plant in the world). Mr Bell knew there would be some difficulty in securing authority for his admission into this country. He had a personal interview with the Colonial Secretary (Downing Street). The result of which interview was that Mr. Bell received the assurance of the Colonial Secretary himself, that he would do everything in his power to assist us, should the matter be referred back to him. On leaving London Mr. Bell had letters of introduction to W.E.Horne Esq.,M.P., and Sir Laurence Guillemard, K.C.B. (copies of the letters enclosed). Mr Bell interviewed Sir Laurence Guillemard, as a result of which the Governor intimated that he would communicate with the Hon. Mr. F.S.James, the Acting Chief Secretary, and assist all he could in the matter. On arrival here (Kuala Lumpur) Mr. Bell interviewed the Hon. Mr. James and on the 2nd July, 1920, received the following communication:- “Ch.S.O. 1339/1920” “Dear Sir, With reference to an interview you had with the Acting Chief Secretary, I am directed to inform you that Mr, James is prepared to grant a permit for three months to enable Mr. Gosswein to enter and remain in Malaya for the purpose of putting up the machinery required by the Malayan Match Company of Kuala Lumpur. I am to add that unless circumstances arise to prevent it, there will be no objection to a renewal of the permit. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Sd. C.Sennett Private Secretary E.L.Bell, Esq., Malayan Match Company, Kuala Lumpur It would be impossible to receive from any Government official of authority more definite assurance of good faith. This was dated July 22nd, 1920-it is now April 14th, 1921, yet we are still being pushed from pillar to post in the matter. Our obligations to this man, entered into on the authority of the letter dated 2nd July, 1920, are such that we are still maintaining him in costly idleness, whereas his services would be the very breath of our enterprise. This man was brought to our very door, merely to be told that he would not be allowed to land. This is a matter which has meant a loss to our company of its entire margin of working capital, and unless it is settled at an early date, threatens to cost this company its very existence. In an interview on this matter between the Hon. Mr. Voules, Mr. A.S. Jelf, Mr. J. A. Russell, and the writer Mr. Voules said that he realised that this change of front had landed us in serious difficulty, for which Government were prepared to pay. At no time has this been a matter which we have sought to make use of. Our deepest concern at all times has been to manufacture Matches, as those who have money invested in this Company are becoming distressingly uneasy. The date of our General Meeting is rapidly approaching, and we have nothing but disappointment upon disappointment, to report to our shareholders. Our General Manager is so perturbed at Government’s action throughout the whole matter, that he threatens to resign, unless the Government offers some speedy remedy for the disastrous position into which Government’s attitude has precipitated this Company, as a protest against the breach of good faith, with the vested interests of an important new industry, which he has endeavoured to establish with all the enterprise, and energy at his command. Mr. Bell takes a very serious view of this matter, from the aspect of his personal prestige in Match circles, and emphasises that if this Company must go into liquidation, as a direct result of the withdrawal of the authority given to him to bring Mr. Gosswein to our works for the express purpose of erecting the plant, he would have no alternative, on his return to England and in his private capacity, but to refer this matter to the Match Combine in London and Liverpool, for reverence to the Colonial Secretary, as, in his opinion, the whole matter is diametrically opposed to the express official request of Lord Milner in his message to the Colonies. The whole matter is one, assuming really serious proportions, involving vested interests of over half a million dollars of public monies, and we look to you to assist us all you can on the two points at issue, which cannot possibly be regarded as irremediable. We have etc., Sd. Geo. Dickinson For Malayan Matches Ltd. From National Archives of Malaysia Sel 5654/20 Transcribed by P.C

LETTER FROM J.A.RUSSELL TO THE UNDER SECRETARY F.M.S. 20TH APRIL 1921 J.A.RUSSELL & CO. Kuala Lumpur, 20th April 1921. Sir, I have the honour to address you with reference to a letter from Mr G. Dickinson writing on behalf of Messrs. Malayan Matches, Ltd., dated 14th April 1921, and referring to your G.3145/20. I was unfortunately not shown this letter until today, and hasten to say that I was unaware that it had been written or sent to you. I was absent from Kuala Lumpur on the 14th instant, otherwise I have no doubt that, as my name and that of my firm is more than once mentioned in it, the letter would have been shown to me before dispatch. Mr. Dickinson’s letter was written to convey the views and beliefs of the Manager of Malayan Matches, Ltd., and not as necessarily representing those of myself or of my firm, and while the letter seems to me to be mainly correct both in its statements and in its views, there are one or two minor inaccuracies in connection with myself to which I think I ought at once to draw your attention. I would first explain that the writer of the letter did not join either me or Malayan Matches, Ltd., until the year 1920, which accounts for the slight errors he has unwittingly made. He is inaccurate when he states that I interviewed leading Government officials in connection with the formation of Malayan Matches, Ltd. In 1918 the late Mr. P.A. Morley Parker, who was my then manager and held my power of attorney, conducted upon my behalf with a Mr. Evance, whom we had engaged, several experiments on the possibilities of local match manufacture; in which work we were actively assisted by the F.M.S. Forest Department. Before the final result of the experiments and negotiations with Government was obtained, I had left for China, returning to the F.M.S. for about a month or more in February, 1919, and leaving again for America in March of that year. I did not return to the F.M.S. until 20th December 1919. Towards the end of 1919 I received a cable in London telling me that a match company had been floated of which I had been appointed Chairman of Directors and asking me to engage the services of a Mr. E.L. Bell, a well-known Match expert then in London. Owing to my having been since leaving the F.M.S. continually travelling, this was practically the first intimation I had received that the affairs in connection with match manufacture in the F.M.S. were so far advanced. I engaged the services of Mr. E.L. Bell for the new Company, and on his advice sent him to Germany to interview the makers of the plant, Messrs. Rollers of Berlin, and to obtain an erector for their Simplex machine which apparently, contrary to its name, can only be erected by their specially trained erectors. Mr Bell through them engaged Mr. Gosswein. Mr Bell on his return to London made further arrangements to engage a match mechanical-engineer to carry out the erection of the other and simpler machines, and to run the whole plant on the completion of the factory. Mr. Simons was eventually obtained for this latter work and has since arrived out here and is engaged at the present time in erecting all but the Simplex automatic machine referred to above. You will see that I had little to do with the floatation of the Company, and did not have interviews with the leading Government officials as stated by Mr. Dickinson. Mr. Parker, however, had a number of such interviews and I have absolutely no hesitation in saying that I was certain from what he told me that he fully discussed with the Government the idea of erecting the factory upon the Batu Arang property of Malayan Collieries Ltd. Owing to Mr. Parker’s sudden death, at a time when I was again absent, and to the confusion of his papers, we do not possess complete records of all his correspondence, while I have also no doubt that many or most of the arrangements made between himself and Government officials were verbal; but from such papers as we do possess there is sufficient evidence clearly to prove Mr. Parker’s statement that the question of erecting a factory on Malayan Collieries Batu Arang property was mentioned and agreed to. Reference to the intention to erect at Batu Arang was, I find, made in a letter addressed as early as 5th November, 1918, to the Chief Secretary. The Acting Under Secretary to Government in a letter dated 26th May, 1919, No. 5287/18 states that a royalty of 25 cents a ton will be charged on any Malayan Collieries coal used by the Match Company, which is absolute and positive proof that several months before the flotation of Malayan Matches Ltd., the Government knew and approved of the intention to erect the factory upon the property of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., as were it intended to build the factory elsewhere, this question of coal royalty would not have arisen or be relevant. Not only can I swear on oath that Mr. parker informed me upon my return to this country that the Government knew and agreed to the proposal to erect the factory upon the property of Malayan Collieries, Ltd., but I have always been under the impression that the arrangement was made mainly to suit the convenience of the Forest Department who did not wish to be put to the trouble of having to revoke a small part of its reserve in order to provide a factory site for a match plant. It is a further fact that no concealment has ever been made about the proposed site of the factory. It was mentioned in the Company’s prospectus, and we also say that its erection must have been known to several Government officials who saw it during the course of construction or knew that it was in course of construction. After, however, allowing the factory and other buildings and improvements (costing in all about $140,000/-) to be completed, the Government has adopted the attitude of professing to know nothing about the matter, an attitude no doubt due to the official changes that have since been made. The question of authorisation was first raised by a newly-come Collector of Land Revenue, Ulu Selangor, in a letter dated 29th October, 1920, (U.S.L. 2032/20) which was replied to in ours of the 5th November, 1920, a copy of which I herewith attach. No reply was made to our explanation and the matter apparently allowed to drop. The explanation of the circumstances leading to the erection were again set forth in a letter to the Secretary to Resident, Selangor, from Malayan Collieries, Ltd., dated 21st March, 1921, in which letter it was asked that the factory area be excised and a separate lease issued. A copy of this letter is also attached. Yet despite this knowledge and these letters, on the 31st March, 1921, you write to say in connection with an application of ours that “until the matter of the unauthorised building on Malayan Collieries Concession is settled satisfactorily, it is premature to discuss, etc.” In Malayan Matches Ltd’s reply of the 4th April to your above letter, the Company asks you kindly to let it know what is meant “by satisfactory settlement.” I understand from Mr. Dickinson that, not receiving a reply, upon his seeing you and requesting an answer to the Company’s question, he was told that you considered the letter of 4th April to be evasive, that it certainly would not be answered, that the Chief Secretary took a very serious view of the whole matter and finally, that the Government was not to be “bluffed” by Mr. Russell. I can assure you that you are mistaken in believing that this letter of the 4th April was intended to be any of the things which you assert. I honestly do not know of what action, intention or crime the Government suspects or wishes to accuse Malayan Matches, Ltd., or me personally, nor what it now requires the Company or me to do. I can only repeat our humble and earnest request that you will be more explicit and will reply to the letter of the 4th April stating the nature of the settlement which you require. If the Government has any charges to make against myself or Malayan Matches, Ltd., I think that you will agree that it is only simple justice to let both of us know the exact nature of these. Does the Government believe that in erecting the factory upon its present site I, or Malayan Matches, Ltd., or Malayan Collieries, Ltd., had any ulterior motive, or were making any secret profit, or had any objective whatsoever other than a legitimate, straightforward and candid desire honestly to do our respective bests successfully to promote a new and as we thought desirable industry in British Malay?. Has Government has any reason to doubt our bona-fide in this matter? But even omitting the question of the factory having been constructed on its present site for economic considerations in the making of matches and because of convenience to the Forest Department, and moreover having been erected with the knowledge and sanction of a former Chief Secretary, is this particular site now thought to be detrimental to the best interests of the State or open to other grave objections, and if so what is the nature of these other objections? If they exist and you will state them, Malayan Matches, Ltd., may possibly be able to suggest a remedy which will obviate all this threatening of disaster to an infant and not yet sturdy industry. When it was first proposed to manufacture matches from local timbers and to start a fresh F.M.S. industry, the Government were most encouraging and sympathetic. The Commissioner of Forests and other Government officials were quite anxious that we should so the pioneer work, and endeavour to establish a local factory. But now the Government’s attitude appears to have changed and to be one bordering almost on antagonism. It has been pointed out by Mr. Dickinson that until this site question which you have raised and other matters be settled, we cannot obtain the additional funds which we so urgently need, funds to a great extent made necessary by the Government’s inconsistent policy regarding our erector, and yet I regret to have to say that nothing is done except to give us seemingly ambiguous replies, and finally with some signs of anger, to tell us verbally that our letter is “bluff” and will not be answered. It would almost seem as though Government has recently had reason to change its views upon the desirability of match manufacture in this country, but for reasons of policy does not wish to tell us so in too direct a fashion. I wish expressly to disassociate myself personally from the expressions contained in the penultimate paragraph of Mr. Dickinson’s letter of the 14th instant, wherein he mentions the possibility of Mr. Bell in a private capacity referring the matter to a Match Combine in England who would take up the question with the Secretary of State for the Colonies. I am sure that this was not intended to be in the nature of a threat, but even so I cannot allow you to think that it was written with my approval or contains my views. As the whole question connected with the erection of the factory upon its present site affects not only Malayan, Matches Ltd., but apparently from your remarks to Mr. Dickinson, me personally, I would ask you kindly to forward this letter and enclosures to the Chief Secretary. In conclusion I desire to make it quite clear that this letter is not written in any but frankly sincere spirit. Apart from the legitimate interests of Malayan Matches, Ltd., which it is my duty to protect and to further to the best of my abilities, I have also, even at the risk of possibly offending or tiring you, written plainly and at some length because I personally seem to be involved and to have incurred your disapprobation which I am not conscious of meriting. I have etc Sd. J.A. Russell Enclosures From National Archives of Malaysia. Sel 5654/20 Transcribed by P.C

THE RUBBER CRISIS. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 May 1921, Page 282 0. THE RUBBER CRISIS. 0. FURTHER CORRESPONDENCE. 0. The following has been forwarded to us for publication. 0. The Chief Secretary, F.M.S. 0. Sir,- I have the honour to inform you that a meeting of representatives of the Rubber Growing Industry in Malaya was held at Kuala Lumpur on Sunday the 17th instant. 0. (2) The names of those present by invitation are given on a list attached hereto and marked Appendix A. They included the members of the Rubber Restriction Committee, the Chairman of the Planters’ Association of Malaya: three representatives of the Chinese Rubber Planting interests; several proprietary Rubber Planters: a few individuals representing their own interests as shareholders: seven representatives of Commercial and Agency firms, and one or more representatives of the Rubber Producers Association of Malaya (Singapore), the Local Committee of the Rubber Growers’ Association (London), and of ten of the Planters’ Associations throughout the F.M.S. and colony. 0. (3) The primary objects of the meeting were: 0. (a) To decide what- if any- further effort should be made to bring about a further reduction in the output of Rubber from this country in the event of compulsory restriction not being acceded to, and 0. (b) To devise what steps- if any- should be taken to carry out the findings of the Meeting. 0. (4) In the early stages of the meeting a unanimous opinion was elicited that further reduction of output was imperative, if accumulation of world’s stocks of raw rubber was to be reduced or even arrested. 0. (5) Figures derived from two different sources were submitted to the meeting which indicated that stocks of raw rubber as at 1st January, 1921, amounted to approximately 300,000 tons. A third set of figures relating to stocks drawn out by a reliable London firm were available, but were not submitted to the meeting because they were widely published and well known. 0. The three sets of figures are summarized on a separate statement attached to this letter and marked Appendix B. 0. (6) Discussion too place on the practicality of further reducing output by combination among producers. It was submitted that an area is bearing in Malaya of 432,094 acres represented by the Rubber growers’ Association (London), restriction by 25 per cent of normal crops was being effected. It was further stated that the Rubber Growers Association of Malaya, (Singapore) which represents about 146,000 planted acres (of which 78,850 were in bearing at the end of 1920) was satisfied that its members were curtailing output by more than 25per cent of normal output. 0. Mr. Choo Kia Peng on behalf of the Chinese present stated that that on some of the large Chinese estates only half of normal crops were being collected and that on most, some reduction in output was being made. It was also brought out that on a fair number of estates production had temporarily ceased. 0. A note in the India Rubber Journal of 12 March was read in which it was stated that in February 1921 the crops harvested from 74 estates (the outputs from which they were published) were less than those harvested in the same months of 1920 by 14.3 per cent. 0. (7) After several of those present (including Mr. Choo Kia Peng, on behalf of the Chinese) had addressed the meeting, the opinion was arrived at unanimously that an appeal for voluntary restriction to those producers not now practicing restriction would not be successful. 0. It was felt that a large number of the class of producers who have no hitherto adopted or adhered to any laid down policy of restriction are so placed, financially and otherwise, that they could not be expected to carry out any specific promises they might make, but of necessity must follow ordinary economic laws, i.e. they will cease to produce when prices are below a certain level and tap their trees again when prices are over a certain level. 0. (8) The question of Compulsory Restriction was then again discussed and the following resolution was unanimously adopted:- 0. “That this meeting is in favour of the introduction of Legislation by the Government of the F.M.S. and Straits Settlements on the lines of the draft Enactment and draft Scheme for Financial Aid submitted to Government by the Restriction Committee in January last” 0. (9) I was asked by the meeting to pass the above Resolution on to Government with a request that its sense be cabled forthwith to the Secretary of Sate. 0. (10) The meeting desired me to make it quite clear to Government that the representatives of Agency firms who voted for the Resolution did so as private individuals, and that their views must not be held to represent those of the Companies or individuals for whom they act as agents. 0. (11) I was further requested by the Meeting to ask your Government to be good enough to say whether the support given, both in this country and in London, to the request for legislative action to reduce rubber outputs is sufficient to convince Government of the general desire on the part of the Malayan Rubber Growing Industry, for such legislation, and, if not, to ask Government to say what further action should be taken by the representatives of the Industry to elicit such evidence. W. DUNCAN, Chairman Rubber Restriction Committee 0. Present at the meeting. 0. J. W. Kennedy, Chairman, P.A. M. 0. C. Alma Baker, Proprietor, Kinta Valley and Pondok Tanjong Estates. 0. R.C. M. Kindersley, Kajang R.G.A. Local Committee 0. J.M. Sime, Chairman R.P.A.M. 0. C.B. Graburn, Batang Padang D.P.A. 0. E.L.D. Evans, Chairman C.P.P.A. 0. W. Gordon Graham, Secretary B.P.D.P.A. 0. Goh Hock Huat, Klang Chinese Planters’ Association 0. G. R. L’Estrange, Secretary, K.S.D.P.A. 0. A. N. Carey, Chairman K.S.D.P.A. 0. J. S. Ferguson, Proprietor Planter. 0. C. Bradbury, Chairman Jahore P.A. 0. H. Armstrong, K.L. D.P.A. 0. W.R.C. Gray, Lower Perak P.A. 0. T.J. Cumming, Chairman, Klang D.P.A. 0. Hon. Mr. John Mitchell, Barker and Co., Ltd., Restriction Committee 0. C.H.A. Huxable, Ula Selangor D.P.A. 0. A .C. Hayton, Kajong D.P.A. 0. C. Ritchie, N.S.P.A. 0. C.B. Towill, Guthrie and Co., Ltd. 0. A.E. Baddeley, Guthrie and Co., Ltd. 0. A.K.E. Hampshire, Boustead and Co., Ltd. 0. C. R. Thurston, Cumberbatch and Co., Ltd, 0. E.J. King Harman, Klang D.P.A. 0. Loh Kong Tunn, Tanah Merah ( N.S.) Estate. 0. F. Sanders, Whittall and Co. 0. J. A. Russell, K.L Restriction Committee 0. Keightley Smith, Selangor 0. Hon. Mr. J. W. Campbell, Malacca P.A. 0. H. N. Ferrers, Kuala Lumpur. 0. Choo Kia Peng, Kuala Lumpur. 0. G. A. Potts, Barker and Co., Ltd., S’pore 0. C.D. Mathewson, Harrisons and Crossfield Ltd., Kuala Lumpur, (Restriction Committee) 0. D. Philips, Harrisons and Crossfield Ltd. 0. Figures Relating to World’s Stocks, Production and Consumption of Raw Rubber. 0. The figures quoted below under Set 1 are abstracted from those submitted by the Rubber Growers Association (London) to the Secretary of State on March 14th 1921, those given under Set II were complied in Singapore, and those given under Set III were taken by Messrs. Symington and Sinclair, London. 0. Estimated World’s Stocks considered necessary for Trade purposes. 0. Estimated Real Surplus not required 0. Estimated World’s production for 1921 0. Totals. 0. Estimated Consumption for 1921 0. Estimated Real Unwanted Surplus at end of 1921 0. Add necessary stocks as above 0. Estimated Actual Stocks as at 30 December 1921 0. (1) Based on Normal Production with no restriction. 0. (2) Based on 331-3 per cent economic reduction from normal figures. 0. (3) Based on Production ceasing on one- fourth of Eastern Plantation areas. 0. (4) Based on U.S.A. consuming 177,000 tons 0. (5) Based on U.S.A. consuming 225,000 tons. (Figures given in table) . (1316 words)

Letter from Khai Sun and Company, 97 and 99 High Street, Kuala Lumpur to the Senior Warden of Mines, Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur, 15 May 1921. Sir, I have the honour to request the favour of information relating to the policy of the Government regarding the issue of licenses to prospect for coal. 2. I am representing a syndicate which has purchased some valuable data respecting a certain area of State land containing strong indications of the existence of coal deposits, and before an application is lodged for prospecting rights over such land we deem it desirable in the first place to ascertain the attitude of Government in regard to the grant of these rights. We desire to know whether the Government is prepared to encourage exploration for such mineral and in what respects the Government will require to be satisfied as a sine-qua-non to the approval of an application. I hope the Government will appreciate the necessity, in the interest of the applicant, of such an assurance- having regard to the fact that the divulgence of particulars such as are furnished in the application, so far as they are indicative of the location of the probably coal deposits, would amount to giving away, gratis, or valuable data to the detriment of the applicant, should the application be subsequently refused. 3. I also request information as to the terms, conditions and reservations subject to which State land will be alienated for coal exploration. I have etc., Sd. Tan Loy Kow. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia: Sel Sect. 3752/1921

Memorandum on the Policy of Government regarding the issue of Prospecting Licences for Coal. From Ag. Senior Warden of mines, F.M.S. Kuala Lumpur, 12th July, 1921. I think that generally speaking the fee for the Prospecting Licences should be kept encouragingly low but that the price should not be fixed. 2. The premium and rent for the lease should be reasonable as the area covered by any coal mining lease would necessarily be a large one with possibly a considerable area of useless ground. A heavy premium only hampers the industry, adds to the overhead charge and so the price of coal, a thing to be avoided as far as possible. 3. Royalty. The Malayan Collieries pay 25 cents a ton which at the present prices represents an average of 2 ½ %. I see no reason for altering this arrangement in favour of an ad valorem royalty, as the latter would lead to complications owing to the various qualities of coal produced. 4. Export Duty. Power to impose this should be retained. I agree generally that such coal should be free over British Malaya but subject to export duty elsewhere and that some deterrent duty should be imposed in the event of the Federated Malay States being starved of coal owing to excessive private consumption outside the Federated Malay States. The duty should take the form of a fixed sum not exceeding say $2/- per ton. 25% ad valorem. 5. The obligations mentioned in paragraphs 5 and 6 of the summary attached to (1) are covered in by paragraph 16 (x) of the Mining Enactment 12/11. Those under paragraph 7 and 8 would be covered by paragraph 16 A (x), xii and xiii) by substituting “coal” for “oil” where necessary. In default of amending the Enactment to include coal in paragraph 16 A, they would have to take the form of special conditions in this lease. These special conditions are detailed in the Malayan Collieries lease which also contains the gist of the other conditions mentioned except that no export duty is to be charged. Sd. G.E.G. Ag. Senior Warden of Mines, F.M.S. Kuala Lumpur 12 July, 1921. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia: Sel. Sect. 3752/1921

LETTER FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER FEDERATED MALAY STATES RAILWAYS TO THE COLLECTOR OF LAND REVENUE 25TH MAY 1921 FEDERATED MALAY STATES RAILWAYS General Manager’s Office Kuala Lumpur Selangor, 25th May 1921 No. G.M.R. 8857/20. Confidential. Sir, In reply to your letter of the 21st instant, No. (48) in Confidential 1821/20, forwarding a draft of the proposed agreement with Messrs. The Malayan Collieries Ltd. For the surrender of the Railway reserve at Batu Arang, I would refer you to Section 9 which provided that the lessees shall supply for the use of the Government such quantities of coal as may be applied for at a price not exceeding the lowest price at which coal of the quality required is supplied by the lessee to any other person. 2. The Railway Department already has and will continue to have very large contracts of coal with the Malayan Collieries at a price very considerably less than that at which coal is supplied to any other person. I should like to be quite clear that section 9 cannot be used in the future as an argument that contracts with the Railway should be based on the lowest price at which coal is supplied to other persons. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Sd: P.A .Anthony General Manager To. The Collector of Land revenue Ulu Selangor Kuala Lumpur From National Archives of Malaysia. Transcribed by P.C

Page 11 Miscellaneous Column 2 [Miscellaneous] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 27 May 1921, Page 11 0. ..Passengers arrived from Penang by S.S. Klang yesterday:-….Mr. J. A. Russell… (539 words)

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 2 June 1921, Page 350, and MALAYAN MATCHES. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 31 May 1921, Page 6 
MALAYAN MATCHES. It is stated in the first annual report of the Malayan Matches, Ltd., for the year ended March 31st, that the directors regret to announce that the manufacture of matches has not yet commenced owing to an unfortunate delay caused by the authorities refusing to allow the German erector to land in Penang, in spite of permission having been granted in England and the F.M.S. for his admittance. The erector was sent to Java, and the local government have at length agreed to admit him. It was confidently expected that within from four to six months of his arrival, the Company will be producing matches. Owing to this delay the Company has exhausted all its funds, and the directors have consequently arranged for a loan of up to $75,000 by am issue of Debentures to shareholders able and willing to avail themselves of the investment offered.

LETTER TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOT, FROM DISTRICT OFFICER KUALA SELANGOR 26th July, 1921 (11) in L.K.S.1053/20. Sir, With reference to your 5459/20, I have the honour to report that I am not yet in a position to report as to land suitable for sugar cultivation in this district. 2. I forward copy of Mr Watson’s (A.C.F.) report on his visit with Mr Hastings of J.A. Russell and Co. to the Sa-Kinchan hinterland. 3. Mr Reid’s report when received will no doubt considerably further our knowledge of the area between the Selangor and Bernam rivers. 4. The (railway construction) officer was instructed to proceed on a compass line from Batang Berjuntai to Kampong Changkat Bernam (Changkat Mentri). On my suggestion he made a preliminary trip up the Sungei Tinggi and got 9 miles up above the bridle path bridge in a perahu. This is apparently where the area that has been cleared ends, and where what he describes (the following is quite unofficial) as the inland sea begins; he could find no bank to the river and slept on a ‘crocodile or python’s nest’ where he was attacked by innumerable anopheles, and returned next day. The water was 10 feet deep (this is the dry season) and the punt pole brought up clay not peat, (in fact upstream the colour of the water was described as ‘macham whisky soda’ and at the bridge as ‘macham teh’). In his present opinion the channel of the Tinggi selected for the purpose of the map is purely arbitrary, any track followed up might be described as a channel. Malays talk about the lakes covered with ‘bakong’, compare statements by Sakais on page 5 of Mr Watson’s report, also the statement of Mr. Abrahams that he found 24 foot of water, 25 miles upstream. I hope to get up the Tinggi to ascertain what clearing should be done. 5. Mr. Reid after investigating from Batang Berjuntai as to the area of the Ulu Tinggi Swamp, went north by rail to start southwards from the Bernam. 6. We must await Mr Reid’s report, but it would appear that for some years to come that through communication from Batang Berjuntai is out of the question. 7. The Sungei Sakanchan is only a ditch 10 feet broad and 10 feet deep, and owing to the surf I had to swim and wade ashore from the boat lowered from the launch. Mr Watson also reports that it was impossible to land. I have the honour to be, Sir Your obedient servant, ?Canelfs District officer Kuala Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia Selangor 5459. Transcribed by PC.

THE MALAY MAIL, MAY 31st 1921 MALAYAN MATCHES __________ THE ANNUAL REPORT __________ CHAPTER OF MISFORTUNES The first annual meeting of Malayan Matches, Ltd., will be held at the registered offices of the Company in Kuala Lumpur on June 7th at 11 a.m. to receive the balance sheet and directors’ and auditors’ reports, elect directors in place of those retired and auditors for the coming year. The report of the directors, signed by Messrs J.A. Russell and Co, agents and secretaries by order of the directors, for the year ending March 31st, 1921, is as follows:- Directors: Messrs. R.C. Russell, acting substitute for J.A. Russell (Chairman), F.B. Ivens, acting substitute for R.B. Hannon, A.A. Henggeler and Geo. Dickinson. The directors beg to submit their first annual report and statement of accounts for the year ended March 31st, 1921. The directors desire to preface this report by saying that they greatly regret the most unfortunate, yet uncontrollable delay in the completion of the factory, and more especially the erection of the plant, with the consequent inability of the Company to manufacture matches anywhere near the date at which it was originally hoped to commence production. Factory and Power House Tenders for the erection of a factory and power house had unfortunately to be called for during the period of great inflation in the costs of labour and materials, with the result that not only were the prices quoted the Company excessive; but owing to the boom and subsequent demand for skilled labour the time required for completion in every case was abnormally long. Acting upon the advice of your Company’s architects, the directors selected the most favourable tender; but even so, their original estimates of time and cost were greatly exceeded. The factory has now been completed, and is a fireproof steel building 225 feet by 75 feet. The power house has also been finished, and is a fireproof building 75 feet by 25 feet. Other works.-Railway sidings and a platform have been constructed, two small bungalows erected, a chemical store and a reservoir built. Shipment of Plant.-The ill-luck which this Company has sustained commenced with the shipment of the plant from India. The dismantling and packing of the plant in India was in the hands of Messrs Parker and Evance. Mr. Parker unfortunately fell ill while in India, and had moreover to contend with the greatest difficulties, for owing to Frontier troubles and internal unrest the military had engaged or commandeered most of the available mechanics, carpenters and timber. By the time the plant had been finally dismantled and packed, railway rolling stock had also been commandeered. It took months to get the plant to Calcutta, and months more to get it shipped. The congestion at the Calcutta docks was so great that in order to relieve it the shipment of even coal from Calcutta had finally to be entirely prohibited, which gives an idea of the state of affairs prevailing. It thus came about that the plant did not actually arrive in Kuala Lumpur until after the time that it was originally hoped to have it erected and running. Condition of Plant.-Several packages of plant never arrived at all, while many cases were badly damaged, Your directors are, however, happy to be able to say that on careful inspection the damages and losses were found to be not at all serious, nothing vital being either missing or broken. Missing plant has since been replaced and breakages repaired. Erector for Plant Mr. Bell visited upon the Company’s behalf the makers in Berlin and obtained plans and particulars of the plant. Before going to Germany, Mr. Bell called at the Colonial Office in London and explained that it would be necessary to engage an expert erector from the makers to put together part of the highly complicated automatic plant. The Colonial Office informed Mr. Bell that, where it would serve British interests, the policy of the British Government was to make as much use of Germany and Germans as possible. It was desirable not only to sell as much as we could to Germany but also to extract as much benefit as we could from individual Germans provided that such benefit was greater to us than any corresponding benefit which might possibly be derived by the Germans. The Colonial Office furnished Mr. Bell with a copy of the “Former Enemy Alien Admission Regulations” published in a supplement of the F.M.S. Gazette, Oct. 16th 1919 and pointed out that the Chief Secretary had power, especially granted ? to admit Germans under licence. Mr. Bell accordingly engaged the services of an erector for the plant in Berlin. Upon Mr. Bell’s arrival he saw the High Commissioner and the Chief Secretary, and obtained a permit admitting the erector into the F.M.S. Unfortunately when the erector arrived in Penang on Dec. 30th 1920, the new Acting Chief Secretary told your Chairman that the Government had changed its mind with regard to the admission of the erector, but instead would be prepared to consider any claim which the Company might make against it for compensation. The Company decided, if necessary, to appeal to the Home authorities, so sent their erector on to Java, where they have been maintaining him ever since. Your directors have for several months been fighting the matter with the Government, and on May 23rd the Government at length agreed to admit the erector. The directors would point out that, had not the Government during all those months held up the written sanction it had previously granted, the plant would have by now been fully erected, and the Company producing matches. The Company has been making representations to the Government almost daily, and urging upon it the serious financial position in which its action has placed the Company. Heavy salaries and expenses have been going on month after month, and, while the Government has been endeavouring to make up its mind, the Company has in consequence run short of funds. The whole matter has been interminably protracted, each official referring it to some other official or to his successor. It should be remarked that during all this time former enemy aliens were being admitted in to Singapore for purposes of trading there. Present Position of Plant Mr. Simons, late of Messrs. Bryant and May, was engaged at Home as the Company’s engineer, and has now erected practically all the plant except the automatic machine, which still awaits the arrival of the erector. The plant already erected looks exceedingly well and the directors are confident that those share-holders who care to visit the factory will be pleased with what they see. Power Plant:-All the power plant is of the very best British make, the boilers by Messrs. Babcock and Wilcox, the engine by Messrs. Allen of Bury, and the generators and dynamos by the British Westinghouse Co. Machine Shop:-The factory is fully equipped with lathes, radial drills etc., of the best British make. Proportion of British Plant. More than half the value of the whole plant and factory is of British make. To your directors’ best belief actual match making machinery is not at present manufactured in Great Britain, although such manufacture is contemplated in the future. Timber. When the Company was floated, certain timbers had been tested by hand, and two or three selected as being eminently suitable for the manufacture of matches. Since then Mr. Bell has had logs of those selected timbers made into matches by machinery in Australia, with the most excellent results. It is thought, that, apart from the manufacture of actual matches, the Company may be able to make and ship splints to countries such as Australia, where suitable match wood does not grow. Staff Your directors regret that, shortly after the return of Mr. Parker from India and before the whole of the plant shipped by him had been received, the illness which he had contracted in that country proved fatal. As the whole of the investigations before the flotation of the Company, and of its business after flotation had been in Mr. Parker’s capable hands, his sudden and sad end was a great loss. Mr. Parker’s demise was so unexpected that many papers and vouchers in connection with his visit to India could not be found among his effects, while much valuable information which he had gathered regarding match making in Malaya and the plant in India, was lost. The late Mr. Parker was scientifically an exceedingly able man of the highest qualifications, and possessing a wide range of experience in industrial technique, besides being the author of several standard scientific works, but he was apt to carry most of his facts and information in his head and to rely upon his abnormal powers of memory. His sudden death was, therefore, all the greater disaster to the Company and has left it in many matters without adequate record. Some time before the death of Mr. Parker, the Company had dispensed with the services of Mr. Evance, but fortunately they had secured as general manager Mr E.L. Bell, late of Messrs. R. Bell and Co., Ltd. When the erector was refused admission, Mr. Simons who had been engaged as mechanical engineer to run the plant after its erection, was cabled for and has since arrived. During the short time that Mr. Simons has been here he has done good work, and has erected nearly all the plant except the highly complicated automatic machine which still awaits the arrival of the expert erector. Finance Owing to the great delay in the production and sale of matches, the Company has exhausted all its funds. It had been led to expect by a former Acting Chief Secretary that as the delay and serious expense had been to a great extent caused by the Government, the Company might look to it for a certain measure of financial aid., but this so far has not been forthcoming, although the directors trust that Government will see its way to compensate the Company for the grave losses suffered. It is recognised that at a time like this it would be inopportune, if it could possibly be avoided, to ask all shareholders, whether financially able to do so or not, to contribute a cess of so much upon their shareholding, and your directors have consequently arranged for a loan of up to $75,000, by an issue of debentures to shareholders able and willing to avail themselves of the investment offered. The debentures will only be issued as and when required, and it is thought that it will not be necessary to issue more than $50,000 in all. The issue will be by first mortgage redeemable debentures bearing interest at 9% per annum, payable half-yearly secured as a first charge on the whole of the assets present and future and the unissued capital of the Company-and a reference to the audited balance sheet will show the very ample nature of the security available. The debentures are redeemable at par in two years’ time or earlier by the Company giving six months’ notice of its intention to repay, and the Company may also at its own option by giving one month’s notice redeem any debentures at $110.00 per cent-A brokerage of 1 per cent may be paid to brokers and others at the discretion of the directors. The debentures will be issued in certificates of $100 each, and any shareholders wishing to avail themselves of the investment, and at the same time assist the Company to reach the producing stage on which its future success must depend, should communicate immediately with the secretaries, informing them the amount of debentures they wish to secure. In order to ensure the Company obtaining its minimum requirements, the secretaries, Messrs. J.A. Russell and Co, have consented to underwrite $50,000 worth of debentures free of any charge or commission to the Company so that its finance is thus assured. Under this heading it may be mentioned that although the directors have had an unusually trying year of office, necessitating the devotion of a great deal of time and though to the Company’s affairs, yet as the Company has not yet arrived at the producing stage, the directors have waived their right to fees for the period under review. Home Negotiations Your directors have been and still are negotiating with a powerful combine of British match manufacturers who possess branches and interests in most parts of the world. It is too early yet to say anything in regard to the probable outcome of these negotiations. Date of Production.-A cable has been sent to the erector in Java and his arrival is shortly expected. It is confidently believed that within from 4 to 6 months of his arrival at the factory the company will be producing matches. Directors.-The retiring directors are Messrs. F.G. Harvey and H.P. Clodd who having left the country do not seek re-election. Mr R.B. Bannon was granted leave of absence during the year and appointed Mr. F.B. Ivens to act as his alternate. The directors have asked Mr A.A. Henggeler and Mr G. Dickinson to fill the vacancies on the board, to which request these gentlemen have kindly consented and whose election you are now asked to confirm. The directors wish to explain that since the death of Mr. Parker, Mr. Dickinson has been in charge in the office of the agents and secretaries of the affairs of the Company, but is now leaving Messrs. J.A. Russell and Co. to look after his own private interests, although he will still be resident in Kuala Lumpur. Mr. Dickinson is a shareholder in the Company and is willing to continue to take, by means of a seat on the board, an active interest in its affairs. Owing to Mr. Dickinson’s intimate knowledge of these affairs, the board have been glad to avail themselves of his offer. Auditors.-Messrs. Evatt and Co., retire, but being eligible offer themselves for re-election.

THE MALAY MAIL. THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 1921 MALAYAN MATCHES THE ANNUAL MEETING SHAREHOLDER’S QUESTIONS The first annual general meeting of Malayan Matches, Ltd., was held on Tuesday at the registered office of the Company, Hongkong Bank Building, Mr. J.A. Russell presiding. The Chairman said:-Gentlemen the reports and accounts having been in your hands for the prescribed period, I will, with your permission, take them as read. The directors’ report has been made as explanatory as possible as to the present position of the company, but perhaps there are one or two points in connection with the accounts and auditors’ certificate which need some explanation. The item sundry creditors, $49,574.33, has since been reduced by $18,250 and will be liquidated by the available cash and the proceeds of the debenture issue. Calls in Arrear of $18,825.00-This amount has since been reduced to $15,900 of which $8,637 is represented by calls due by shareholders in India. In response to the notice issued by your directors drawing attention to the company’s power to forfeit shares for non-payment of calls various communications were received from India pointing out the adverse nature of the exchange and requesting that any action regarding forfeiture should be postponed until after 31st May. The request seemed reasonable in the circumstances and your directors are of opinion that it would be more equitable to charge interest on calls in arrear and to only use their power s of forfeiture in cases where neither payment of interest nor principle is forthcoming. The articles provide for interest being charged for up to a rate of 10 per cent per annum. I will now turn to the auditors’ certificate where you will note a clause stating that no lease had as yet been received for the factory site. The Company was, as you know, granted by Malayan Collieries, Ltd., a site upon the edge of its property. Although Malayan Collieries may possibly sell fuel to Malayan Matches, its main object in allowing the Company to erect its factory on this site was to assist a sister industry. It was intended originally to erect the factory within the Government’s timber concession but this would have meant revoking the forest reserve, and as the Company had already come to an understanding with Malayan Collieries in regard to obtaining fuel and extending the railway sidings the easiest solution of the difficulty was to shift the factory site, so that, while practically in the forest reserve, it was actually just over the boundary and built on the adjoining colliery property. The only written stipulation the then Chief Secretary made was that for all fuel consumed Malayan Matches should pay the Government royalty of 25 cents per ton as though the coal used had been sold to a consumer situated outside Malayan Collieries boundaries instead of within them. Correspondence with Government Long after this arrangement had been mutually made, after full publicity had been given to all the facts, when considerable sums had been spent in openly constructing the factory, power house, bungalows and sidings, in fact when the company pressed for the admission of its erector, your directors were suddenly told that it had been found that its buildings upon their present site were “unauthorised” and until the matter had been satisfactorily settled the question of the admission of the erector could not be considered. After a lengthy correspondence-in which your directors expressed their surprise at this sudden attitude of the Government and maintained that the Government had, amongst other ways, by its stipulation that Malayan Matches should pay a royalty on any coal consumed by it upon the property of Malayan Collieries, definitely acquiesced in and authorised the erection of the factory on Malayan Collieries property-your directors were told that the matter had been passed on to the British Resident, Selangor, who was engaged in preparing a satisfactory solution and from whom the company might shortly expect to hear. Owing to this question arising concerning the formal authorisation of the Company’s present site, the lease which had been prepared has not yet been executed, it being considered advisable to await the British Resident’s solution. Your directors believe that this legalising of the permission already-but apparently somewhat informally-granted to the company by the Government during the administration of a Previous Chief Secretary, may be expected very shortly, and that although rectifying the matter so far as the Government is concerned, it will not affect the company’s position. The other point in the auditors’ certificate which may need elucidation is the statement that no vouchers had been prepared for $11,989.20 being amounts expended in India by the late Mr. Parker. As explained in the directors’ report, many papers and vouchers in connection with Mr. Parker’s visit to India could not be found. Mr. Parker disbursed upwards of $200,000 on the company’s behalf during his lengthy stay in India and from time to time rendered full accounts of his expenditure. Except for his untimely decease final accounts would have been forthcoming and the directors have no hesitation in the circumstances in stating that the amount was properly disbursed and therefore adding it to the cost of plant and machinery. I now beg formally to move that the report the directors produced, together with the statement of the company’s accounts as at March 31st duly audited, be now received, approved and adopted, which motion I shall ask Mr. Dickinson to second, but before putting it to the meeting I shall first endeavour to answer to the best of my ability any questions that share-holders present care to put. The report was passed Messrs. Dickinson and Henggeler were elected directors in place of Messrs. F.G. Harvey and H.P. Gold.

THE MALAY MAIL. FRIDAY JUNE 10TH 1921 MALAYAN MATCHES QUESTIONS BY SHAREHOLDERS Chairman’s replies We printed yesterday the address of the Chairman (Mr. J.A. Russell) at the annual meeting of Malayan Matches, Ltd., on June 7th. Following are questions asked by share-holders and the answers given:- Mr. ?Blunn enquired how long was it after his return from India that Mr. Parker died. The Chairman replied that he himself was not in the country either at the time of the formation of the Company or for some months afterwards, but he believed that Mr. Parker’s death occurred about 5 months after that gentleman’s return from India. Mr. ?Blunn considered that it should be easy for the Company to procure duplicate vouchers for such expenditure on machinery as was not accounted for in the vouchers and papers examined after Mr. Parker’s death. If the money had been spent in travelling, it was remarkable that Mr. Parker’s papers did not show this to be so, as the sum was a large one. The Company had had sufficient time to procure a complete statement. The Chairman admitted that five months seemed sufficient in which to obtain a full statement of accounts from the late Mr. Parker, but as had been explained in the report Mr. Parker, though able, was not the most methodical of men. Mr. Parker was half a year in India examining, dismantling, packing and forwarding the plant and he incurred a great deal of expenditure made up of a number of small items, the details of which he probably only noted in some missing pocket book or other. Although it was unfortunate that full details were lacking, the total sum spent by Mr. Parker was not at all unreasonable, and with this opinion the Company’s auditors agreed. The directors were fully satisfied that the money had been expended by Mr. Parker in India upon the Company’s behalf. Mr. Cooray wished to know whether the plant upon which they had spent $275, 849.4 was in the same excellent condition at the present time as it was when Mr. Parker had reported on it, and whether after it had arrived, Mr. Bell had reported on it. The Chairman answered that shareholders were already aware from the circular issued to them by the Company that the plant had suffered in transport and on arrival was not apparently in as satisfactory a condition as could have been desired. Owing to the trouble in India, and the Railway and Dock congestion difficulties there, the plant was many months en route. On arrival many cases were found to be broken and part of the plant did not look in absolutely first class condition, and a circular was issued informing shareholders of this fact. However, upon the Company’s Mechanical Engineer arriving from Home, he went through the machinery and found nothing serious, the condition of the plant was evidently far better than shareholders had been led to believe from the circular. With the exception of one machine, all the plant was now up and appeared to be in quite a satisfactory condition. When connected up with the power, the usual minor adjustments would no doubt be required before the whole of the plant was running sweetly. Mr. Cooray further enquired whether, in view of the attitude of the Government in regard to the admission of the erector, the directors had taken steps to ensure that the Government would keep its promise in regard to imposing an import duty on foreign matches. The Chairman stated that the directors had taken no steps in such direction. The report and accounts, having been seconded by Mr. G. Dickinson, were duly passed. Messrs. G. Dickinson and A.A. Henggeler were elected directors, and Messrs. Evett and Company, auditors. Mr. Cooray proposed that the meeting pass a vote of condolence to the relations of the late Mr. Parker which motion was carried and the meeting terminated at 11.30.

COAL SUPPLIES IN THE MALAY PENINSULA. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 9 July 1921, Page 16
 COAL SUPPLIES IN THE MALAY PENINSULA. Official statistics from the Straits Settlements give interesting details of the imports of coal into that colony over a period of five years. Japan has been the principal source of supply, sending 419,000 out of 717,000 tons imported in 1915 and 392.000 out of 762,000 tons on 1916. For comparison the figures are given for three years in the following table: -

 

1917

1918

1919

 

Tons

Tons

Tons

United Kingdom

-

-

1,000

Australia and New Zealand

40,000

8,000

65,000

India

89,000

20,000

87,000

Borneo, Sarawak and Brunei

23,000

28,000

17,000

Natal

2,000

18,000

35,000

Japan

408,000

370,000

271,000

Tonkin

18,000

17,000

13,000

China

28,000

28,000

-

Dutch Borneo

14,000

7,000

12,000

Other Places

17,000

14,000

2,000

Total

639,000

510,000

503,000

There can be no doubt that the working of indigenous coal at Rawang, in Selangor, one of the Federated Malay Sates, has had some effect on the local market, an effect that will be felt more fully when the Malayan Collieries reach their estimated output of 400,000 tons. In the four years to the end of 1919 they produced 628,682 tons, the output in 1919 being 191,293 tons. The power of plant employed in that year was 1,540 h.p. and the labour force averaged 1,372 men. Since then the collieries have obtained additional mining plant from the United Kingdom, and last year’.s output is likely to show an advance upon previous figures. In 1919 the Federated Malay States Railways and the tin mines in the Malay States took the greater portion of local output, but 24,261 tons were exported. - Ch of Com. J l.

More Industries. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 14 July 1921, Page 17. 
Editorial . “More Industries. July 9. Rubber has been jumpy for the last few days and in the breasts of some, hopes of a speedy recovery arise anew. But it is only a flash in the pan. If, as seems indubitable, the position of stocks and present production is as stated, the demands of the world could be supplied from stocks alone for months”. (Summary: Loss of sugar industry, sugar prices coming down daily, possibilities of cotton, kapok, coconuts, oil palm, distillation of alcohol, “ the coal from Malayan collieries is becoming an appreciable factor in calculating our wealth. In the four years to the end of 1919 the mines produced 191,293 tons, and the full output is 400,000 tons per annum. The labour force for 1919 averaged 1,372 men. If there are more coal seams about, they ought to be at once exploited.” …cement… bricks, “Malaya ought to have many more industries than rubber: ought to extend its operations in rubber manufacturing: ought, in short to trust to the little vessels of commerce instead of the great leviathans, that so easily get wrecked and result in loss, beyond the prospect of recovery, for the individuals who trust their fortunes to them. (971 words) 


LETTER FROM SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR TO J.A. RUSSELL AND COMPANY, 19TH JULY, 1921 Kuala Lumpur, 19th July 1921 (3) 1353/1921 Gentlemen, With reference to your application of the 21st March, 1921 for the excision of 30 acres from Mining Lease 2549 and the subsequent grant of this area to Malayan Matches Limited, I am directed to inform you that upon surrender of the mining lease for this 30 acres the land will be granted to Malayan Matches Limited upon the following terms:- Premium Nil Rent $4.00 per acre Special Condition The Land hereby granted shall be used for the purpose of a match factory and buildings appurtenant thereto. 2. I am to request you to communicate with the District Officer, Ulu Selangor and arrange with him the necessary details connected with this transaction I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, G. ?Hemmant Secretary to Resident, Selangor Messrs. J.A. Russell and Company Agents and Secretaries The Malayan Collieries Limited, Kuala Lumpur From National Archives of Malaysia. Transcribed by P.C

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF SELANGOR AND MALAYAN COLLIERIES, LIMITED. 16TH JULY 1921 AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF SELANGOR AND MALAYAN COLLIERIES, LIMITED. ________________ An Agreement between the Resident of Selangor for and on behalf of the Government of Selangor hereinafter called the lessor and Malayan Collieries, Limited, hereinafter called the lessee. 2. The lessee hereby agrees to surrender to the lessor an area coloured red on the plan attached to and forming part of this agreement computed to be 35 acres 2 roods 5 poles and surveyed as portion 1.604, from the land surveyed as portion 1,285 and held by the lessee under mining lease, 2,549. 3. The lessor hereby agrees to grant the lessee, at the lessee’s request made in writing in the due course of the lessee’s mining operations, the sole right to extract from the area hereby surrendered all coal that may be found therein. 4. On receipt of authority to commence mining operations in the area hereby surrendered the lessee shall pay to:- (a) the Collector of Land Revenue, Ulu Selangor, a rental on the total area hereby surrendered at the rate of $1 (one dollar) per acre per annum. (b) the State Treasurer in Kuala Lumpur a royalty of 25 cents per ton of coal removed or transported beyond the boundaries of the land hereby surrendered. 5. No export duty shall be chargeable on any coal won from land hereby surrendered. 6. The lessee hereby undertakes so to conduct his mining operations on the land hereby surrendered as not to interfere with or obstruct the construction, maintenance or use of the railway or sidings or any works appurtenant thereto or to endanger the good order or stability thereof. 7. The lessee shall furnish to the Resident of Selangor on or before the 15th day of January, April, July and October in every year a return showing for the three months immediately preceding the month in which the return is required to be furnished, (a) the amount of coal raised, (b) the amount of coal sold, (c) the stock of coal in stacks, trucks and bins on the last day of the month immediately preceding the month in which the return is required to be furnished. (d) the price or prices at which the coal has been sold and the amount paid to the Government as royalty. 8. The lessee shall from time to time on demand produce for the inspection of the Commissioner of Trade and Customs and the Senior Warden of Mines and of any officer authorised by either of them all books and accounts kept in pursuance of the obligation imposed by section 16 (x) of “The Mining Enactment 1911,” and shall at all times permit, and on demand afford, all reasonable facilities for the checking by the said Commissioner or Senior warden or any officer authorised as aforesaid of the amount of coal in stock. Provided that the lessee shall not be required to remove any of such books from the place or places where they are for the time being kept. 9. The lessee shall on application made from time to time by or on behalf of the said Resident or the Chief Secretary to Government, Federated Malay States, supply for the use of the Government such quantities of coal as may be applied for at a price not exceeding the lowest price at which coal of the quality required is supplied by the lessee to any other person. Provided that, should the Government at any time require a supply of coal in excess of 200 tons but not exceeding 2,000 tons per mensem, three months’ notice of such requirement shall be given to the lessee, and should the Government at any time require a supply of coal in excess of 2,000 but not exceeding 5,000 tons per mensem, six months’ notice of such requirement shall be given to the lessee, and should the Government at any time require a supply of coal in excess of 5,000 tons per mensem, 12 months’ notice of such requirement shall be given to the lessee. 10. All Government officers authorised in that behalf by the said Resident in writing shall at all times have free access to the land comprised in this agreement with all necessary workmen and apparatus for the purpose of winning and taking therefrom mineral oil for the ships of His Britannic Majesty’s Navy and for other purposes of His Britannic Majesty’s Admiralty and the lessee shall in no way obstruct or interfere with any such entry or operations. Provided that for any loss or damage caused to the lessee by the exercise of the rights conferred upon this condition, reasonable compensation shall on complaint being made within twelve months by the lessee to the said Resident be payable by the Government to the lessee: and provided further that, if and so often as the Government and the lessee shall differ as to the merits of any claim for such compensation as aforesaid or as to the amount of compensation to be paid, such difference shall be submitted to the arbitration of two arbitrators, one to be appointed by the said Resident and the other by the lessee and such arbitrators shall appoint an umpire or third arbitrator. Such arbitration shall proceed in accordance with the provisions of “The Arbitration Enactment, 1912,” or any enacted modification thereof. 11. The permission to extract coal from the surrendered area granted in accordance with clause 3 of this agreement shall be liable to be cancelled by the lessor upon breach by the lessee of any of the obligations herein set forth and compensation shall be paid by the lessee for any damage to the railways or sidings or any works appurtenant thereto due to his mining operations. Questions of damage, of liability, and of compensation shall be decided in the manner provided in the last preceding paragraph. 12. This agreement shall continue and remain in force for the term of the mining lease granted to the lessee in respect of portions 1,596 and 1,597 formerly contained in portion 1,285 and held under mining lease 2,549 and of any extension of the said mining lease and shall cease upon the determination thereof. Dated at Kuala Lumpur this 16th day of July 1921 In witness whereof the said Seal of the State of Selangor Resident has hereunto set his hand and caused the public seal of the Sd/-Oliver Marks Ag. British State to be affixed at Kuala Lumpur Resident, Selangor this 16th day of July 1921 in the presence of G. ?Hemmant Seal of Malayan Collieries Ltd. Sealed by the said lessee this 15th day of Malayan Collieries Ltd July 1921 in the presence of sd/-J.A. Russell Director Henry E. Swan Collector J.A. Russell & Co. Sd/-H.D.Brown Secretaries and Agents From National Archives of Malaysia. Sel 565419/20 Transcribed by P.C 0.

Opportunities in Malaya. [Articles] The Straits Times, 2 August 1921, Page 3
 0. Opportunities in Malaya. How Australians Fail to Grasp Openings. Lt-Col. R. F. FitzGerald, D.S.0., writing in an Australian paper, says: - The average Australian has but a vague idea of what Malaya and the East Indies really are - the varied forms of government, the wondrous untapped wealth, the immense areas and varied population, and above all, the extraordinary opportunities that exist for promoting a highly valuable trade with Australia if the opportunity is grasped immediately. (Summary Malayan industries, “at present there is much unemployment among both European and native labourers” new industries being introduced. sand lime brick works, African palm oils, Natalite motor spirit coconuts “ and the Malayan Collieries Company, which have recently struck good coal in Borneo, promises to develop into something big.”.. straits dollar 2s 4d is no more than a shilling in Australia, “Malaya cannot feed itself and it cannot clothe itself Malaya must have the best of everything ashamed of shoddy Australian tined goods. “ True to label. It must be remembered that few of the millions who would purchase our goods can read English. a distinctive trade mark such as a white bird, a black horse or a green snake will suit the native mind”. Necessity for sending regular supplies and good trade commissioner.

Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 8 August 1921, Page 7, and Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 13 August 1921, Page 6
, and SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 1921. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 18 August 1921, Page 103
 0. SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 1921 0. 0. 
Messrs. W. McEwan and E. Barrett two colliery mining engineers, have just arrived in Kuala Lumpur to join the staff of Malayan Collieries, Ltd. Mr. McEwan goes to the Company's Batu Arang property, while Mr. Barratt in leaving shortly for the new coalfield which Malayan Collieries is opening in Borneo. (M. M.) (53 words)

State of Selangor. [Articles] The Straits Times, 17 August 1921, Page 9
 State of Selangor. Administration Report For 1920. The Hon. Mr. Oliver Marks, Acting, British Resident, Selangor, 1920, in his report on, the State for that year states: The revenue for 1920 amounted to $25,697,388.72 and expenditure was $;37.642,036.33. Trade.— The imports for 1920 amounted, to $102,410,392, an increase …vessels infected with cholera. “The Malayan Collieries produced 247,911 tons of coal during the year, in December the mine employed some 3,000 labourers” first attempt to bore for oil in F.M.S. forests, fisheries, Public works, buildings, water supplies, public health, labour, “first Aerial Mail in the F.M.S. was inaugurated on May 23, 1920, when captain R. Carroll brought letters from His Highness the Sultan to the Resident in the aeroplane Night Hawk from Klang to Kuala Lumpur.” (1618 words)

The Malay Mail August 17, 1921 Selangor in 1920 The Year Reviewed. Mr Marks’ Report. From the Selangor Administration Report for the year 1920. (Summary: revenue, expenditure, assets, liabilities, imports, import returns analysis, exports, steamers in Port Swettenham, foundation for lighthouse, Land and Agriculture, land transactions, mines, exports of tin, labour force, “ On the Malayan Collieries 247,911 tons of coal were raised and sold to the public during the year. The number of labourers employed both underground and on the mine ranged from 1,200 in January to 3,000 in December. The health of the labourers was satisfactory. The main incline of the South mine had been driven to a distance of 2,000 feet at the end of the year, the total length of the incline of the North mine being 1,827 feet at the same date. The coal produced from this mine is reported to be excellent. A licence to prospect for oil under section 46 of the mining Enactment 1911” was issued to the United Plantations ltd in April 1919. A No 28 star drilling machine with 30 hp engines and fittings capable of drilling to a depth of 2,000 feet started operations at Sabak Bernam in December 1920. This is the first bone fide attempt to bore for oil as yet undertaken in the FMS.” Forests. Little exploration, demand for timber exceeded supply, shortages of fuel in K.L., lack of transport. Shortages of staff, rises in prices, contracts cancelled, housing question acute, 39 senior officers could not be accommodated in separate homes, 290 applications from subordinate staff. Urgent need for more quarters in K.L. Roads. 7 miles added to existing 770. Surveys for new roads. Increasing use of motor lorries means roads need strengthening. Water supplies improved. “ The cutting of the flood channel for the Klang river below Kuala Lumpur commenced in 1919, was completed during the year and came into operation on November 23rd. when a small flood occurred which just reached the Padang in Kuala Lumpur.” A small improvement to other rivers, but whole water level in state has risen requiring expert advice. Public Health. Population Chinese 18,053, Indians 124,134, Malays 86,223. Births 10,865, deaths 13.525. Comparative birth and death rates by ethnicity.)

Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 29 August 1921, Page 6 and 0. Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 12 August 1921, Page 6 and FRIDAY, AUGUST 12, 1921. [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 18 August 1921, Page 101
,FRIDAY, AUGUST 12, 1921 0. 0. 
 The connection between Malayan Matches, Limited, and Mr. E. A. Bell, general manager, has been severed, and Mr.Bell is returning to England this month. M.M.

Malay Mail Saturday August 27th 1921 page 8 Mr. R. C. Russell has been elected Vice President of the Selangor Club in place of Mr. Ferrers, resigned. Mr. Russell’s father and his brother Mr. G. D. Russell, have both occupied this position.

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 1921. [Articles] 0. The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 1 September 1921, Page 9 0. MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 1921. 0. ...The Hon'ble Mr. J. M. Robson having tendered his resignation as a member of the Trade Enquiry Commission Mr. J. A. Russell has been appointed in his place….(1052 words) Untitled [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 29 August 1921, Page 8 and The Malay Mail Tuesday August 30, 1921. Mr J. A Russell has been appointed to the Trade Commission in place of the Hon. Mr J. H. M. Robson, resigned.

Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 29 August 1921, Page 8
According to the Times of Malaya, Mr. Rostevor, who was found in a hotel at Ipoh with his throat badly cut, is reported to have resigned, his position with the Malayan Collieries at Batu Arang of his own accord and gone to Ipoh with introductions to one or two local people to assist him secure another billet. He had been some years in Australia before coming to this country. (70 words)

THE TRADE COMMISSION [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 3 September 1921, Page 9 0. THE TRADE COMMISSION 0. Two Days' Sitting at Kuala Lumpur. 0. The Malayan Leader of Friday says:- The Hon. Mr. H. Marriott, General Adviser, Johore, Chairman of the Trade Depression Commission, presided over the first meeting of the Commission in Kuala Lumpur yesterday in the Committee room at the Federal Secretariat. The members present were the Hon. D. Y. Perkins and the Hon. Mr. Gibbons (Singapore) Messrs. W. H. MacGregor and A.E. Baddeley, the Hon. Mr. J. W. Campbell (Malacca) the Hon. Mr. John Mitchell (Penang) the Hon Mr. R. C. M. Kindersley, the Hon. Choo Kia Peng, Messrs. D. H. Hampshire and J. A. Russell F.M.S. 0. The Commission which is sitting in camera had a lengthy session yesterday and adjourned for the morning. Several prominent merchants and miners are being asked to give their views and besides those in Selangor we note that the following arrived in Kuala Lumpur in connection with the investigations of the Commission, Mr. E.E. Smith (ex-chairman Malacca P. A.) Mr. Chung Thye Phin (the well known Perak miner), Mr. Chan Heang Thoy (another delegate of the Perak miners). 0. Our Kuala Lumpur correspondent wires: The Trade Commission is expected to issue a first interim report before the end of the month. 0. 0. (208 words)

Letter from the Office of the State Engineer, Selangor to the Secretary to the Resident, Selangor. P.W.D. No. 932/21 Kuala Lumpur, 6th September 1921 Offer of a house at Maxwell Road for sale by Messrs. J. A. Russell and Co. Sir, I have the honour to forward herewith a blue print and particulars of a house on Maxwell Road the property of Mr. J. A. Russell which is now nearing completion. 2. The house is particularly well situated on the top of a “Changkat” approached by a metalled road some 16 chains in length. 3. The workmanship and materials are of superior finish and include sanitary fittings etc. not usually supplied to Government Quarters, these extra items amounting to over $15,000. 4. The accommodation is equal to a Class II Quarters and Mr. Russell informs me that he is prepared to accept payment in S.S. War Bonds should the Government be disposed to purchase. I have the honour to be Sir, Your obedient servant, ?Sydney?Snuil State Engineer. Selangor. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia: Sel. 3792/21 Maxwell Hill House. This house is nearly completed, another three weeks will be necessary to finish the tiling with Italian marble of the ground floor and the installation of water pipes and bedroom fittings such as washstands and mirrors complete with nickel fittings by Twyfords. The house stands on one of the best sites in Kuala Lumpur in 9 ½ acres of land, two storied built of brick with French tile roof, all the wood being Chengai. The whole of the work is of the highest quality and workmanship. The ground floor consists of a large Hall, Dining Room, Cloak Room and Lavatory fitted as above, Bed-room with Bath room and Dressing Room, Pantry and Store rooms. A verandah surrounds the Dining room and Bed room. All the ground floor including the verandah is tiled with Italian marble. The first floor contains two Bed rooms with Dressing rooms and Bath rooms (the main bedroom having an additional bath room) and large lounge with a wax polished floor extending over the porch. The Bed rooms have private verandahs attached. There are the usual servants Quarters and kitchens, and a garage for three cars with Syce’s quarters. The cost of the property including the land, private metalled road, water installation, marble tiles and bed-room fittings amounts to $60,000/-, which sum we are prepared to accept as the purchase price.

Maxwell Road House 1. Land acquired in 1919- 9 ½ acres $4905.15 2. Contract for House 38000.00 3. Garage 1350.00 4. Approach Road 2648.00 5. Installing Water Supply with connections to Sanitary fittings 725.00 6. Lightning Conductors 175.00 7. Marble Tiles 1880.00 8.Saniatary Fittings 2400.00 9. Glazed Tiled Dado in Bath-rooms 485.00 10. Felling and Clearing 137.00 11.Insurance 163.00 12. Electric Light Installation 700.00 13. Railing near Garage 100.00 14. Chicks 234.00 53,903.08 15. Architect’s Fee @ 7 ½% on $48834.50 3,662.58 $57,565.66 16. Interest @ 7 % on payments as made 1,623.92 $ 59, 189.58 Hand written minutes: Sel Section 3792/1921 From S.E., Place Selangor, 962/21 Date 6.9.21 House at Maxwell Road , belonging to Messrs J. A Russell & Co. Offer for sale. BR/ It is a magnificent site. Is this worth ?reporting to C.S.O. in view of para 4. ?Su.(Initials) 11.9.21 We inspected this house and site together and came to the conclusion that it was not worth while doing anything about it. Reply that I have inspected the house, and that I am unable to consider a proposal to purchase it for the Gov. 17.10 ?Gto(.Initials) ASR 2. to S.E. sent 18.10.21 I regret I omitted to return the prints Will you please obtain them? ?S.E.S.( initials) 18/15/21 Document in the National Archives of Malaysia: Sel. 3792/21 0. 0.

Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 8 September 1921, Page 8
 0. A verdict of suicide whilst of unsound mind was returned by the Coroner in the case of Mr. Maurice Rostrevor who cut his throat in the Station Hotel, Ipoh. lt was shown that deceased had left his employment in Malayan Collieries of his own accord, and that besides $123 on him at the time of his death he had a bank balance of $1,000. (64 words) 


LETTER FROM THE DISTRICT OFFICER, ULU SELANGOR TO THE SECRETARY TO RESIDENT, SELANGOR. 8TH SEPTEMBER 1921 District Office, Rasa, 8th September, 1921 No. (11) in U.S.L. 251/21 Sir, With reference to your correspondence 1353/21 I have the honour to report that the 30 acres to be granted to Malay Matches Limited are made up of two parts, 12 acres from Mining Lease 2549 and 18 acres from an adjoining Mining Lease 3239, and not from Mining Lease 2549 only as was previously stated by Malayan Collieries Limited. These parts will form one block. I have therefore accepted the surrender of these separate areas, but consider that the opportunity should be taken of rectifying the special condition of the grant as suggested by Mr. Worthington and approved by the Hon’ble Resident. 2. I take it that the Colliery Company will pay the fees of subdivision and the Match Company will pay the fees for preparation and registration of title. Neither of these companies have been informed that Government will not bear the expenses of resurvey, except for the surrender of the railway reserve the cost of which should be borne by Government. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, ? District officer. Ula Selangor To. The Secretary to Resident, Selangor From National Archives of Malaysia. Sel 1353/20 Transcribed by P.C

SOCIAL AND PERSONAL. [Articles] The Straits Times, 10 September 1921, Page 8
 0. SOCIAL AND PERSONAL. Mr. Edwin L. Bell, who resigned his position as General Manager of Malayan Matches, Ltd., in June, is returning with his wife to London by the Bibby liner Yorkshire from Rangoon on September 15.

Railway Advisory Board. [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 5 October 1921, Page 9 0. Railway Advisory Board. 0. F.M.S. Government Official Announcement. 0. The Kuala Lumpur papers are officially informed that the Government has decided to form a Railway Advisory Board, and that the following have accepted the Government's invitation to become members: The General Manager for Railways, F.M.S. (Chairman), Hon. the Treasurer, F.M.S., Director of Public Works, F.M.S., Hon. Mr. J.H.M. Robson, Hon. Mr. Choo Kia Peng, Messrs. D. H. Hamshire and J. A. Russell. 0. The powers and duties of this Board will be confined to matters which concern the Railway Administration in its relation to the public as distinct from the administrative work of the Department. 0. Subject to the aforesaid, the Board will advise the Railway Administration on matters which may be referred to it, or initiated by it. 0. All schemes relative to the expansion and development of the Railway will be submitted to the Board for consideration and advice. 0. All proposals affecting rates and fares will be submitted to the Board for consideration and advice before being submitted to Government. 0. The draft annual estimates and all applications for supplementary warrants in excess of $5,000 will be referred to the Board before submission to the Government. 0. The Board will have the right to call for information regarding working expenses, revenue, etc., of the Railway Administration and will be able to call for, and peruse, all departmental correspondence relating thereto. 0. Meetings will be held whenever convened by the General Manager or by three or more members of the Board. 0. Members of the Board will be given free passes over the Railway. (258 words)

Letter from Malayan Collieries to the Secretary to the Resident, Selangor, Kula Lumpur. PHF/PHF. J A Russell & Co Kuala Lumpur. October 18th 1921. Sir, We have the honour to inform you that we have this day paid to the State Treasurer, Selangor, the sum of Dollars Nineteen Thousand Two Hundred and Eighty Four, Cents Seven- Dols. 19,284-07- being Royalty at 25 cents per ton on Coal, for the third quarter of 1921, ending September 30th, as the statement enclosed. We have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servants, Signed ? Malayan Collieries. J A Russell ad Co. manager Agents & Secretaries. Document in the National Archives of Malaysia. 5. 1896/21

Royalty on Coal for Malayan Collieries. Return for the first Quarter Ending 31 March 1921


Months

   Coal raised

Total raised

                  Coal Sold

Total sold

Selling price

1921

For sale

Slack for Boilers

 

Screened

Unscreened

Slack

 

 

January

27687-18-2

1358-2-0

2904-0-2

19594-17-2

3462-15-3

4630-5-1

27687-18-2

 

February

20062-6-0

1347-5-3

21409-11-3

13831-4-1

2532-5-1

3698-16-2

20062-6-0

 

March

26994-8-0

1250-0-0

28244-8-0

18780-17-2

3113-4-1

5100-6-1

28994-8-0

 

 

74744-12-2

3955-7-3

78700-0-1

52206-19-1

9108-5-1

13429-8-0

74744-12-2

 

Document in the National Archives of Malaysia. Sel. 1896/2

Return for Quarter Ending 30 June 1921


Month

   Coal raised

Total raised

                  Coal Sold

Total sold

Selling price

1921

For sale
Tons c qr

Slack for Boilers
Tons c qr

Tons c qr

Screened
Tons c qr

Unscreened
Tons c qr

Slack
Tons c qr

Tons c qr

Standard prices per ton

April

21927-3-3

1412-5-0

23339-8-3

14613-14-0

3253-14-0

4059-15-3

21927-3-3

Screened $13/-
Unscreened $11/-
Smalls $8/-

May

25800-5-3

1480-4-0

27280-10-1

18527-11-1

3061-15-2

4210-19-0

25800-5-3

June

25805-18-2

1477-13-3

27283-12-1

18430-8-1

2672-11-1

4702-19-0

25805-18-2

 

73533-8-0

4370-3-1

77903-11-1

51571-13-2

8988-0-3

12973-13-3

73533-8-0

 

Note. Owing to the present depression in the tin mining industry a special rebate on the above standard prices, of 15% is allowed to the Tin Miners, provided accounts are settled punctually.
Royalty on Tons 73533-8-0 @ 25 cts per ton, equals $18,383.35

Return for the third Quarter Ending 30 September 1921


Month

   Coal raised

Total raised

                  Coal Sold

Total sold

Average selling price realized during third quarter

1921

 

 

 

July
Aug.
Sept.

For sale

Slack for Boilers

 

Screened

Unscreened

Slack

 

 

Tons c qr 29167-5-1

Tons c qr 1476-8-3

Tons c qr 30643-14-0

Tons c qr
19726-11-2

Tons c qr 3302-14-0

Tons c qr 6137-19-3

Tons c qr 29167-5-1

$8.78 per ton

23806-7-2

1473-12-0

25279-19-2

17240-19-1

2444-18-2

4120-9-3

23806-7-2

24162-12-3

1287-0-0

25449-12-3

16258-18-1

2597-17-0

5305-17-2

24162-12-3

 

77136-5-2

4237-0-3

81373-6-1

53226-9-0

8345-9-2

15564-7-0

77136-5-2

 

Total amount of royalty $19209.07

Return for the fourth Quarter Ending 31 Dec. 1921


Months

   Coal raised

Total raised

                  Coal Sold

Total sold

Average selling price on all grades

1921

 

 

 

October
November
December

For sale

Slack for Boilers

 

Screened

Unscreened

Slack

 

 

Tons c qr 25669-14-0

Tons c qr 1315-0-0

Tons c qr 26984-14-0

Tons c qr
16724-2-1

Tons c qr 2258-14-3

Tons c qr 6686-17-0

Tons c qr 25669-14-0

 

 

$8.48 per ton

22902-6-2

1366-0-0

24268-6-2

15107-19-3

2342-11-0

5452-4-3

22902-6-2

25803-3-2

1399-0-0

27202-3-2

16592-4-0

2509-7-0

6701-12-2

25803-3-2

 

74375-4-0

4080-0-0

81373-6-1

48423-17-0

7110-12-3

18840-14-1

74375-4-0

 

Royalty on tons 74375-4-0 @ 25 cts per ton  $18,593.80

Document in the National Archives of Malaysia. Sel. 1896/21

Page 13 Advertisements Column 2 [Advertisements] The Straits Times, 25 October 1921, Page 13 . SELANGOR COCONUTS, LTD. Proceedings at Tenth Annual Meeting. The tenth annual general meeting of Selangor Coconuts, Limited, was held at Kuala Lumpur, on October 17, 1921, with Mr. J. A. Russell in the chair. The representative of the secretaries, Messrs. Boustead and Co., Ltd., having read the notice convening the meeting, The Chairman said: With your kind permission I will take the report and accounts as read. I regret that the present financial position of the company does not enable your directors to recommend the declaration of a dividend, and I can only express hope that that we shall be in safer position to do so next year. In the year under review our copra realized an average price of $18 84 per picul c.i.f. Singapore against $20.26 for the previous year. Unfortunately our c.i.f. cost were from $7.62 per picul to $9.15. The figures given in the report include head office charges. The 1920 cost was made up of the following proportion: - Revenue $3.40 and general charges $4.22 whilst the 1921 proportions revenue $4.59 and general charges $4.56. The increased cost of production is, therefore, $1.53 per picul being $1.19 account revenue and 34 cents account general charges. (Summary: Charges and Revenue. “ The increase in salaries due to leave pay. The loss on rice was, you will notice, very heavy, but little loss is now being incurred under this heading. Our buildings are getting old and require rather heavy expenditure in the way of upkeep. Boat hires from the estate to port Swettenham rose from 20 to 40 cents a bag”….The Property. 160 acres, drainage, bad burn. 401 acres immature coconuts..new drains.. clearing.. pruning.. expenditure on new kilns.. crop 1,536,666 nuts..converted to 6,742.48 piculs of copra.. figures for last year..estimates for next year. Yield should increase as crops become more mature.. )“ I do not think there is very much which I can usefully add to the foregoing figures. As mentioned in the report, the estate is in good condition and improving in value. We have had trouble in the young clearing from bears but three watchmen are now being employed to shoot them. Kiln foundations and coast erosion are still causing anxiety. Neither of these difficulties are yet solved. We are looking into the question of whether the construction of light kilns with corrugated iron sides might not prove suitable for our poor foundations. Piling has been useless. A civil engineer who has considerable experience in coastal erosion has kindly promised to visit the estate shortly and to give us the benefit of his technical advice. Before proposing the adoption of the report and accounts I shall be very pleased to answer to the best of my ability any questions shareholders present may care to put. 0. No questions being asked, on the proposition of the chairman seconded by Mr. Cumming, the report and accounts were adopted and passed. The retiring directors Messrs. J. A. Russell and A.K.E. Hampshire were re elected as also the auditors Messrs. Neill and Bell. 0. With a vote of thanks to the chair the meeting terminated. (991 words)

The Straits Times, 27 October 1921, Page 10
 Amalgamated Malay. Satisfactory Results from Self- Denial. The fifth annual general meeting of Amalgamated Malay Estates, Limited, was held, says the Malay Mail, at Kuala Lumpur on October 21, with Mr. J. A. Russell in the chair. The Chairman addressed the meeting as follows:- The accounts having been in your hands for the required period, I will with your sanction take them as read. I do not suppose that any shareholder is surprised at our being unable to declare a dividend this year, and it is indeed a matter for congratulation that no final dividend was distributed to shareholders at the end of last year, for the policy of self-denial then practiced has materially assisted the financing of the company during the past twelve months. Despite the unpredictably low price to which rubber fell, the company was able in the year under review make a minute profit of $1,623.86. In times like the present it is gratifying even to come out on the right side of one’s balance sheet. Of course, the company’s difficulty is that is had to upkeep so large an area of immature rubber; but this young area is coming on so excellently and shows such splendid promise that it would be folly to allow any deterioration from the first class condition of upkeep which it is in now. Self Supporting Estates By the practice of economies recently possible and with the slight increase in the value of raw rubber, the estates are now practically self-supporting, even including the upkeep of the immature area but in order to make the future of the company perfectly safe your directors resolved to ask on the 1st of last September shareholders to advance a loan at 8 per cent to the company $10 for every $100 of nominal share value held, this loan to be convertible any time within 3 years into ordinary shares at par. The loan is payable 50% upon application and the balance on June 30, 1922. The majority of the company’s shareholders are resident at home and we shall not know until the 15th of next month what measure of response we shall receive to our appeal. If all the money for which we ask is subscribed, we shall have sufficient funds to maintain the whole of the company’s property for two years, even if tapping is entirely stopped on both estates. I doubt whether there is very much I can add to the facts and figures which you will find in the report accounts before you. Our general charges on Jingjang Estate for the year under review increased from $21,513.54 in 1920 to $25,917.26 an addition of $4,403.72. The chief increase is in salaries $4,421.52 due to the manager being on leave, and hospital and medical $1,283.55. There were savings in recruiting and poll tax of $1,443.88. On the other hand the revenue expenditure shows a saving of $10,797.29 the figures being 1920 $44,169.23 and 1921 $33,371.94. The savings are due to there being no export duty and war tax and to cheaper labour. In 1920 first two items amounted to $5,633.56. The cost of labour decreased by $3,980.10. The f.o.b. cost per lb. worked out at 37.23 cents made up of revenue 23.7 cents and general charges13.53 cents against 36.23 per lb. for 1920 made up of revenue 26.11 cents and general charges 10.12 cents. The estimated f.o.b. cost for the coming year is 18.43 cents per lb. The f.o.b. cost actually obtained for the 3 months July, August and September of the new year is 18.89 cents. The crop shows a decrease of 16,816 lbs due to 154 acres seconded by being tapped alternate days from September 1920, and 37 acres rested during the greater part of the year. The figures for 1920, 170,024 lbs. 1921 153,208lbs. The estimate for the current year is 161,250lbs. Serdang’s prospects. Serdang is much the finer property of the two and although but little of it is yet in bearing the figures are pleasing and give great promise regarding the future of the estate. General charges remain at about what they were in 1920, $30,000. Revenue expenditure shows a decrease of $5,470.47 due to similar causes to those which I have already mentioned in connection with the Jinjang estate. The cost per lb shows a fall of 8.7 cents being 25.89 cents per lb. in 1921 made up of revenue 17.81 cents and general charges 8.08 cents and 33.59 in 1920 made up of revenue 25.4 cents general charges 8.35 cents. The estimate for the current year is19.08 cents per lb. the actual cost for the first 3 months being 13.01 cents, 6.07 cents below the estimate and a really remarkable figure considering the small area of tapping. If the price of rubber rises with a consequent increased demand for labour, it is doubtful of course whether such low costs could be adhered to. The crop figures are 1920, 89,206lbs and 1921 94,879 lbs an increase of 5,673 lbs. the estimate for the current year is 85,025lbs. Before answering to the best of my ability any questions put and then formerly proposing the adoption of the report and accounts I wish to voice the thanks of the directors to your staff, particularly to Mr. R.C. Evans, the manager of the Serdang Estate, for his fine work. Mr. Bloomfield Douglas, our general, manager, was absent on leave for the greater part of the year, and we are pleased to see him back so really benefited by his holiday. No questions being asked on the proposition of the Chairman, seconded by the Hon Mr. Choo Kia Peng, the accounts were adopted and passed. The retiring directors, Mr. R. B. Bannon and the Hon Mr. Choo Kia Peng were re-elected, as also were the auditors Neill and Bell. With a vote of thanks to the chair the meeting terminated.

Untitled [Articles] The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 4 November 1921, Page 6
 0. Mr. Thomas L. McCall 

, until recently Mines Manager to the Malayan Collieries, has been appointed mining engineer to the Arcadia Coal Co., Ltd. of Stellaton, Nova Scotia.

The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser (1884-1942), 5 November 1921, Page 12 0. PARTURIUNT MONTES. 0. There is nothing startling or novel says the Straits Echo, in the recommendations of the Trade Commission. Naturally, those who were confiding enough to hope that its deliberations would produce a panacea for all the ills to which the local trade is heir were foredoomed to disappointment; but even the less sanguine certainly looked for something a little more constructive than the very obvious conclusions of the Commissioners. 0. We will not go so a far as to suggest that the great trust and confidence reposed by the Governor in the zeal, industry and integrity of the…(list of members inc… Mr. Archie Russell) was entirely misplaced. But we do make bold to affirm that if His Excellency had entrusted the same task to (.. list of names) any single one of them would have furnished in one twentieth of the time at one hundredth of the cost a report and recommendations at least as interesting and valuable as so those produced after so much labour by all this galaxy of local commercial talent. 0. Relaxation of the mining regulations and relaxation of duty will help the miner, but they will not push up the price of tin. A land bank… ought to have been established years ago but will not push up the price of rubber. New industries are the lesson of the slump, but they will not absorb the stocks in the hands of merchants, Reduction of expenditure on non essentials.. and an official effort to bring down the cost of living… have long been preached by the Straits Echo, but they will not create a demand for our products which does not exist and cannot exist until the whole world gets to work again, and France disbands her huge army, Central Europe settles down and Britain fixes up her Irish question and capital and labour everywhere decide that co-operation is better than strife.

Untitled [Articles] The Straits Times, 18 November 1921, Page 8
 The directors of Malayan Collieries. Ltd., announce a final dividend of 10 per cent, payable on or about January 15. (20 words)

Malayan Collieries Circular 15 Nov. ( Not found in archives)

Malayan Collieries. [Letters] The Straits Times, 19 November 1921, Page 10
. Malayan Collieries. To the Editor of the Straits Times 0. Sir. In December last Malayan Collieries, Ltd., issued a circular to its shareholders informing them that the Board had entered into an agreement to purchase the Batoe Besar Concession in Borneo, with workable coal in sight estimated at 40,000,000 tons. In consequence shareholders were informed of a further issue to them of capital amounting to 20 per cent. of their holdings at a premium of $6 and 20 per cent free. It was being stated that the new property was being paid for mainly in shares, but that “your Directors….feel confident that the acquisition of this Concession will in future considerably increase the rate of dividend earned by your shares, even allowing for the increase in the Company’s issued capital.” This is the whole of the information bearing on the terms of purchase that I am able to extract from that three page circular. 0. With a confident increase in the rate of dividend one naturally expected the shares to rise; but instead of this they have fallen about fifty per cent. I was naturally anxiously looking forward to the company’s annual report and accounts and the annual meeting which is now overdue. But to my great annoyance and disgust, I received a circular yesterday which is silent about the new concession, and which, without giving any reason therefor, says, “ Your directors beg to inform you that it has been considered advisable to alter for the future the end of the Company’s financial year from June 30 to December 31”, a proceeding, by the way, that would involve a breach of the S.S. Companies Ordinance and presumably of the F.M.S. Ordinance. 0. The result of the circular seems to me to consist largely of camouflage; while the dangling before me of a ten per cent dividend in January quite fails to reassure me, although no doubt intended for that purpose. 0. Meanwhile it is well known that not everything connected with the new concession has gone smoothly. It is rumoured that work on the concession was stopped or very much curtailed some time ago, that the machinery installed was not satisfactory, that the royalty fixed was found to be much too high, but that this has now been very much reduced. But the majority of the shareholders are kept in ignorance, while anyone who may have had inside information has been in a position to take advantage of that ignorance. 0. In the circumstances I think it advisable publicly to ask Mr. J. A. Russell, (who like certain Tuan Besars in Singapore, appears to think that he has sufficient time, not to mention other qualifications to act as a director of a number of rubber companies) to be good enough to find the time to give shareholders the information due to them and, in particular to answer the following questions, viz, 0. (1) What is the issued capital of the company? 0. (2) What were the terms of purchase originally agreed upon? 0. (3) Who were the middlemen? 0. (4) How much of the purchase price was received by those middlemen? 0. (5) What are the present terms for working the concession? 0. (6) Why have shareholders not been promptly informed of all important faits accomplis? 0. (7) Why (in whose interests) have the directors decoded to alter the end of the company’s financial year? 0. (8) Why not hold the usual annual meeting, and then, if thought advisable, make an alteration? 0. (9) Why are not the public or the shareholders informed of the monthly output or sales? 0. (10) Why have the shares fallen about fifty per cent since the acquisition of the concession? 0. In my opinion those in control should be given all this information long ago. - 0. Yours, etc FREDK. C. Peck. Singapore, November 17, 1921.

LETTER FROM CHAN NIN (P/A J.A. RUSSELL) TO THE COLLECTOR OF LAND REVENUE, BATU GAJAH. No: 143, Hugh Low Street, Ipoh, 21st November, 1921, To: The Collector of Land Revenue, Batu Gajah. Sir, Will you please order the subdivision of my land Lot No:14831 Cowan Street at to attached sketch approved by Sanitary Board. Treat this as urgent being required for erecting Bakery shops needed urgently for the public. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Sd: Chan Min P/A J.A. Russell From National Archives of Malaysia. Kinta Land Office (1) 633/21 Transcribed by P.C.

THE MALAY MAIL. MONDAY NOVEMBER 28TH 1921 MATCH IMPORTS NEW DUTIES EXPLAINED Rules for Assessing The Acting Commissioner, Trade and Customs, F.M.S., asks us to publish the following for the information of the public and particularly for that portion of the community trading in matches:- On the 20th October, 1921, a duty at the rate of $60 per case of 7.200 boxes was imposed on matches imported into the Federated Malay States and power was conferred on the Chief Secretary to define what should be deemed a “box” for the purposes of levying this duty. The Chief Secretary has now approved of the following rules and import duty on matches will be assessed in accordance therewith:- (i) When the number of matches per receptacle or box does not exceed 85 the duty shall be assessed at the rate of $60 per case of 7,200 boxes. (ii) When the number of matches per receptacle or box exceeds 85 but does not exceed 95 the duty shall be assessed at the rate of $65 per case of 7,200 such boxes. (iii) When the number of matches per receptacle or box exceeds 95 but does not exceed 105 the duty shall be assessed at the rate of $70 per case of 7,200 such boxes. (iv) When the number of matches per receptacle or box exceeds 105 but does not exceed 115 the duty shall be assessed at the rate of $72 per case of 7,200 such boxes. (v) The specified rate of 1 cent per box on all quantities exceeding 20 boxes but less than 1 case shall be charged unless the number of matches per receptacle or box exceeds 115 It will be seen that as long as the number of matches in a box does not exceed 115 the import duty will in no case exceed that of 1 cent per box. 3. It may be of use if I append herewith a list of the various brands of matches now on the market and showing the number of matches normally contained at present in the boxes of various brands. SWEDISH MATCHES 1. The Three Birds …58 to 60 2. The Ship …68 “ 70 3. No 222 …58 “ 60 4. Elephant Brand (small box) …58 “ 62 5. The Ant …68 “ 70 JAPANESE MATCHES 6. Matsutani …90 “ 92 CHINESE MATCHES 7. The Republican Matches -Chop Tai Yik- … 100 “102 8. The Deer brand -Chop How Ming- …100” 102 9. Canton-Seong Hee … 86 “ 90 10. Indo-Chaina-Hanoi… 57 “ 60 11. The Doli Brand -Chop How Ming …100 to 102 12. Sam Fook -Chop Man Sang …97 “ 100 13. Seong Kwah (Two Gourds) Chop Lee Sang …103 to 112 0.

Untitled [Articles] 0. The Straits Times, 6 December 1921, Page 8 The following passengers arrived here by the K. P. M steamer Melchior Treub on Monday:- …J.A. Russell…… (125 words)

The Straits Times, 1 February 1933, Page 19 GRANT-EARNING SCHOOLS To the Editor of the Straits Times. (Summary: Letter about charitable schools in Malaya since 1851, reaction to critical government report, Government introduced new system after war, committee appointed in 1921-22 to criticize it, endorsed it… on Committee Mr. J. A. Russell, (in place of the Hon’ble Mr. J. M. Robson on leave). Missionary schools saving public funds not a burden on them… by Laurence Henderson. )(2148 words)

NEWS 1921

From the Singapore and Straits Directory, Fraser and Neave, 1921. SOAS archives

Russell, J. A., & Co.,

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Buildings,  Kuala Lumpur.

Cable Address :-“Jar”

London—34, Lime Street, E.C.

W. R. Loxley & Co.—Hongkong, Shanghai, Canton, Singapore & London.

Perrin Cooper & Co.—Tientsin, Hankow and Peking.

 

Partner                          J. A. Russell

Do.                          D. O. Russell (China)

Do.                          R. C. Russell  (London)

Manager              H. H. Robbins

Staff

James Barr            P. H. Fish

H. D. Brown            A. M. Ford

W. S. Coutts            P. E. Hastings

G. Dickinson            P. Hoffner           

 

            Managing Agents for

Malayan Collieries, Ltd.

Bakau Tin, Ltd.

Malayan Matches, Ltd.

Serendah Hydraulic Tin Mining Co., Ltd.

Hariman Syndicate

Sungei Tua Estate

 

            Secretaries for

Malayan Collieries, Ltd.

Eastern Tungsten Co., Ltd.,

Malayan Matches, Ltd.

Jerantut Plantations, ltd.

           

Agents for

Royal Exchange Assurance Corporation