Browse Items (93 total)

A special letter was written by a missionary who knew Munshi Abdullah personally. He quoted that Munshi Abdullah was a smart man who loved reading and writing. The letter helps us learn more about his life, thoughts, and how he worked with people…

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The excavation at Kampong Ipoh in Negeri Sembilan uncovered a row of ancient megalithic stones, giving insight into prehistoric rituals and community life in the area. The findings help us understand the region’s early history and how people used…

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The article by Alastair Lamb details his archaeological research and observations from multiple visits to Kedah in 1957 and 1958, highlighting the incomplete and inaccurate documentation of sites, and the need for more comprehensive and preserved…

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The article by Alastair Lamb discusses the search for the ancient port town of Kalah, looking at two possible sites in Malaysia and Thailand, both of which have important artifacts that might show they were once major trading hubs.

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The article by Alastair Lamb details his exploratory visits to various archaeological sites in South Thailand since 1960, emphasizing the region's significance for understanding the early history of Malaya and the need for more comprehensive…

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The article by Alastair Lamb discusses the tradition of publishing brief preliminary reports on archaeological discoveries, focusing on the findings at the Kuala Selinsing site near Taiping, Perak, including a lost gold ring and surface collections…

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The article by Amin Sweeney examines an old Malay sha'ir (poem) inscribed on a cannon, correcting previous transcription errors and discussing its structure and historical significance.

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Pak Pandir is a literary adaption that first appeared in the Cherita Jenaka in 1908, produced by a Malay writer in the palace tradition. The story has been passed down through generations and became a folklore. There are various version of the story…

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Elephants and water played important symbolic and practical roles in seventeenth-century Acheh’s feasting ceremonies. Elephants were a sign of power and status, often featured in grand celebrations, while water rituals helped bless and purify events.…

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This study looks at a Sanskrit inscription written in ancient Brunei script, offering clues about early cultural and religious influences in the region. By decoding the text, the research shows connections between Brunei and wider Indian traditions,…

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In “The Boats of Local Origin employed in the Malayan Fishing Industry,” C. A. Gibson-Hill examines the traditional sailing boats used in Malaya’s fishing industry. Until recently, these boats relied on sails, oars, or paddles for propulsion. The…

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The article by C. A. Gibson-Hull provides a brief biography of George Samuel Windsor Earl, highlighting his early life, career as a sailor, interest in languages, and contributions to translations and publications, despite the lack of detailed…

The article by C. Skinner details the British-Indian invasion of Java in 1811, focusing on the experiences of Lt. W. G. A. Fielding, who documented the campaign in his diary, highlighting the significant figures involved and the expedition's notable…

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Sir Arthur Young played a key role in shaping policies toward the Chinese community in Malaya and the Straits Settlements during the early 20th century. He focused on maintaining order and controlling secret societies, often using strict surveillance…

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The article by Christopher and John Bastin documents the inscriptions from old tombstones in Penang's Protestant Cemetery and important tablets in St. George's Church, providing valuable biographical information about Penang's early governors,…

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The article by D.E. Short and James C. Jackson reviews the development of irrigation policies in Malaya before the establishment of the Drainage and Irrigation Department, highlighting the significant investments in irrigation projects and the shift…

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The article by Dato Sir Roland Braddell recounts the life and maritime adventures of his maternal grandfather, John Roberts Kirby, through his autobiographical "Life's Log," highlighting his voyages, family history, and the historical context of his…

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Anglo-Kedah relations between 1688 and 1765 were shaped by trade interests, diplomacy, and shifting regional power. The English East India Company sought access to Kedah’s resources and strategic ports, while Kedah’s rulers tried to balance foreign…

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Pakpak Batak communities in North Sumatra have been navigating cultural shifts influenced by modernization, migration, and changing religious identities. While many still uphold traditional customs and social structures, younger generations are…

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Rawa and Rinchi are explored as distinct ethnic groups with unique cultural traits, languages, and histories. The note provides more details about their origins, migration patterns, and traditional customs, showing how they have maintained their…

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Nora Chatri in Kedah is explored as a traditional dance-drama with deep roots in local culture and ritual. The report gives an early look at its performance style, stories, and social role, showing how it remains an important part of Kedah’s cultural…

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Sir Stamford Raffles had a deep interest in natural history and played a key role in promoting its study across Penang, Singapore, and Indonesia. He supported the collection and documentation of local plants, animals, and geological features, often…

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Trade and politics in the western part of the Malay Archipelago are explored during the early European arrival. The article shows how local rulers managed commerce, alliances, and rivalries, balancing traditional practices with new pressures from…

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Raffles was awarded the Order of the Golden Sword by the Sultan of Palembang as a gesture of honor and diplomacy. The award symbolized mutual respect and recognition between Raffles and local rulers during his efforts to expand British influence in…

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This article explores the famous painting of Prince Dipanagara’s capture by Raden Saleh, showing how the artwork reflects both resistance to colonial rule and the artist’s personal perspective. It contrasts with Dutch versions of the event, offering…

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This article looks at the Peranakan Chinese community in Northeast Kelantan, showing how they blended Chinese and Malay traditions in daily life. It highlights their unique culture, language, and social roles, as well as how they maintained their…

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A checklist of English-language fiction linked to Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei is presented, covering works by both local and foreign writers. It serves as a useful guide for those interested in how these countries have been portrayed through…

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The article by E. Banks discusses the diverse origins, cultural practices, and social integration of various indigenous groups in Sarawak, focusing on their unique customs, languages, and traditional livelihoods.

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The article by E. Banks details the traditional rice planting customs, including retreat periods and various rituals, among the people of the Baram District in Sarawak, and highlights the cultural significance and practices associated with these…

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The article by E. Banks describes the historical and cultural significance of the Keris Sulok, or Sundang, a traditional Bornean weapon, and its decline in use and knowledge in favor of more practical tools.

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German travel books from the 17th and 18th centuries offer valuable insights into how Europeans viewed the East, including Southeast Asia. These writings reflect curiosity, misunderstandings, and sometimes admiration for local cultures, while also…

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In "The Iron Age Collections of Malaya," G. de G. Sieveking provides an overview of Iron Age artifacts displayed in museums in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Taiping. The paper identifies four types of primitive pottery and a single homogenous iron…

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The article by G. G. Hough explores the non-Islamic features of Malay graves, suggesting possible connections between the burial practices of the Jakun and certain Malay graves, despite the religious rites being predominantly Islamic.

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The article provides an overview of Brunei's history, highlighting the neglect in scholarly attention towards its historical records, languages, and ancient tombs, and the need for further research and preservation of its cultural heritage.

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Murray Ross Henderson played a key role in shaping botanical research in Malaya during the early to mid-20th century. Starting as a botanist at the Singapore Botanic Gardens in 1921, he became curator in 1924 and later served as Director from 1949 to…

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Dutch records from Malacca, dating from 1685 to 1835, are preserved in the India Office Records at the British Library in London. These documents, transferred from Malacca in 1927, include materials from the Orphan Chamber and the Council of Justice,…

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The article by Ir. J. L. Moens looks at old historical and geographical records to identify early sea powers in the indian Archipelago, focusing on Srivijaya, Java, and Kataha, using Chinese and Arabian Sources.

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The article details the characteristics, historical usage, and regional significance of the Kedah harvesting knife, also known as pisau penggiau, particularly its unique design and the dwindling traditional practice associated with it.

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The article by J. de V. Allen explores the roles of Sir Frank Swettenham and Sir Hugh Clifford in the Malay States, highlighting their unique positions as early British Residents who blended older forms of imperial rule with emerging colonial…

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The article by J. M. Gullick looks into the origins and historical meaning of the name "Sungei Ujong." It discusses how the name might have changed over time and its connections to places like Seremban and Cape Rachado. The article also mentions a…

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Ahmat Majanu’s tombstone at Pengkalan Kempas is very old and special. It has writing in two scripts which is Jawi and Kawi which shows a mix of Islamic and older local cultures. The tomb belongs to a man named Sheikh Ahmad Majnun, and the writing…

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The article looks at a legal issue in Jelebu involving Adat Perpateh, a matrilineal custom practiced by the Minangkabau. It highlights the tension between traditional adat laws and modern legal systems, showing how local customs still play a strong…

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Between 1821 and 1885, Kedah faced a period of turmoil marked by Siamese invasion, the Sultan’s exile, and efforts to regain the throne. The struggle involved political negotiations, shifting alliances, and local resistance. Despite setbacks, the…

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W. W. Skeat is remembered for his major contributions to the study of Malayan ethnography, particularly through his detailed observations of local customs, beliefs, and social structures. His work combined careful field research with a deep respect…

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Karayuki-san were Japanese women who came to Singapore between 1877 and 1941, often working as migrant workers or in the sex trade. Their stories reveal the hardships they faced, as well as how they adapted to life far from home. Their presence…

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Chinese writings from the 18th and 19th centuries describe the Malay Peninsula as a place full of trade, different cultures, and natural resources. These accounts show how Chinese travelers and officials viewed the region, focusing on its people,…

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The article by John Bastin discusses the historical document "A Historical Sketch of the circumstances which led to the settlement of Penang & of the Trade to the Eastward previous to, and since that period" from 1794.

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