From Ustazah to Reformers: Unsung Heroes in Malaysian History

Studies of the role of women in society generally focus on elite personalities such as political figures, NGO workers, and academic activists. This article examines the work of Malay women educated in religious schools who influenced reforms in female education and became agents of change in the public and political sphere, with a particular focus on teachers ( ustazah ) in religious schools. The article adds to the established narrative of reform and improvement in women's lives in 20th century Malaysia.