A Malayan prince and politician. Following Malaya's independence, Tunku Abdul Rahman, as prime minister (1957 - 63) introduced reforms that spread power among the sultans who had ruled over fiefdoms on Malay peninsula for hundreds of years. In 1963 Malaya joined with Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore under a new name, the Federation of Malaysia and Tunku became its prime minister (1963 - 70). Rivalry between the Tunku and Lee Kuan Yew, prime minister of Singapore, saw Singapore leave the federation in 1965. Since Singapore's population was predominantly Chinese, its departure tipped the balance back in favour of Malays and increased tension between the two communities led to riots, in 1969, in Kuala Lumpur. Following a state of emergency declared by the government Tunku Abdul Rahman resigned in 1970.