About CUMSA
CUMSA was founded in the Michaelmas term of 1948. Then known as the Cambridge University Malayan Association, it brought together a small community, worlds away from home.
Its founding committee included former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew (as President), and former Chief Justice Yong Pung How (as Secretary). Over 77 years since, many Malaysians and Singaporeans alike have contributed to the growth of the organisation. Famous alumni from Singapore include SM Lee Hsien Loong, three current cabinet ministers, and several Supreme Court justices.
When Singapore gained independence from Malaysia in 1965, CUMSA did not similarly divide. The association persevered as a common meeting place for people of both nationalities.
Though relationships between the communities were sometimes fraught, the years of precedence spoke volumes when it came time to make those difficult decisions about remaining under one organisation. Though a separate Malaysian association was founded in 1994, we still proudly count a number of Malaysian members among our ranks, along with people of many other nationalities.
Join Our Community
Whether you're a current student, recent graduate, or seasoned alumnus, CUMSA welcomes all members of the Malaysian and Singaporean community at Cambridge.
