Chinese secret societies
In the Malay Peninsula, kongsi, more popularly known as Chinese secret societies, were cooperative associations whose members pooled resources for a venture and shared the profits. However, their character changed over time as they were able to enrol immigrant labourers even before they left China. They were able to keep the coolies in perpetual debt, not only for their passage but also for the supplies and services offered through revenue farms. These included gambling, alcohol and opium. Such practices eventually led to a British ban on the societies.
- Information in the full article includes
- Early kongsi
- Conglomerates
- Suppression
