 The MPABA was later renamed to the Malayan People's Liberation Army with the stated goal of establishing a republic in Malaya and Singapore on 1 February 1949.The British administration was constantly ambushed by the communists during the period of 1949 to 1955.In 1955, the first general election of Malaya was held and Tunku Abdul Rahman became the first Chief Minister of the Federation of Malaya.