The Malabar Muslim associations were formed in initially Malaysia and Singapore to see to the welfare of the community members. These associations were formed by the professionals and the white collar workers within the community with strong backing and support from the then majority business community. The aim then was to look into financial support for needy in community as well as to organize religious and social functions.
There is a changing trend in the associations with the changing social needs of the community with more attention being paid into social and community development. There is also a change in the social strata of the members as communication improves, where the rural community is playing a more important role than previously seen.