Synopsis of Theatre

Zainun Munshi Sulaiman, or rather, more well known as Ibu Zain, grew up as an active and energetic lady. Her father’s guidance in religion education and perseverance in sending her to an English school has opened her eyes and soul to become an educator of the nation, not only through her role as a teacher, an author and also a fighter for her nation. She went through the crucial era of the English colonisation, Japanese invation, Comunists, Calamity, the rise of opposition for Malayan Union until the independence of Malaya. She also experienced the sail of time as a single mother to three children, and at the same time, she was also the leader for Kaum Ibu (Mothers in UMNO) which really stretched her body and soul.

Ibu Zain had no choice but to submit to fate that she couldn’t further her studies as she was born in the era where the society were opposed to females with high education. Nevertheless, she overcame that disappointment by establishing a school for the villagers to learn to read and write.

During her journey in politics, she was accused of having an affair with Dr. Burhanuddin Helmi by her very own UMNO members, while in actual fact; the two were representing the country for an Inter Asia Conference in New Delhi. Nonetheless, she fought steadfastly for the independence of her nation, which resulted in her to be discontinued from work due to her outspoken actions opposing the Malayan Union. She was also bantered for her hope of building small homes amongst the noblemen. Ibu Zain persisted through all obstacles which came her way. In an incidence, she even gave speech to prevent Dato Onn from leaving UMNO although she has yet to recover from being shot by communists. The only thing that she wished to see by fighting so dearly is that her nation would be free and independent, not only from the colonists, but also the limitation of their minds which stop the children of the nation from developing. The priority of her endeavour was based on the balance of academic education and religion. In her own words, “Religions must be learned and modernization is crucial,” Women are not only going to be good Muslim and employees, but what’s more important is that they can be great mothers who would be able to educate their children to be useful citizens. Her hope has been translated into every moment of her battle and it was further strengthened with the establishment of Ampuan Mariam College, which was operated from the Mastika Embun Palace in Johor Baharu, a gift from Tengku Mariam, the younger sister of Sultan of Johor. This is the place where Ibu Zain eternalized her spirit and contributions.