Browse Items (93 total)

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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The article by R. O. Winstedt compares the ages and reigns of rulers in different versions of the "Malay Annals," highlighting the inconsistencies and the historical significance of Valentijn's now-lost copy, which followed the older Malacca text.

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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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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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Sultan Abdul Majid Hassan of Brunei, also known as the King of Boni, died in 1408 while visiting the Ming court in Nanjing. Honoring his wish to be buried in China, the Yongle Emperor arranged a royal funeral and had him interred at Shizi Hill, just…

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This short piece explains the meaning and use of the word "Kongsi," which refers to Chinese partnerships or associations, especially in Southeast Asia. It highlights how the term was linked to trade, community support, and even self-governing groups…

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Abd al-Ra’ūf’s Tarjumān al-Mustafīd, a Malay tafsir (Qur'anic commentary), draws heavily from earlier Arabic sources, particularly the works of al-Baydawi and al-Khazin. By adapting these texts into Malay, Abd al-Ra’ūf made Islamic teachings more…

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The article by Victor Purcell examines the historical context and reasons behind the United States relinquishing its extraterritorial rights in Siam, highlighting the delay from 1909 to 1920 and comparing it to Britain's earlier actions influenced by…

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The article by Nicholas Tarling examines the influential role of John Palmer, known as the "Prince of Merchants," in British political and commercial affairs, particularly in relation to the British-Dutch negotiations and the acquisition of…

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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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In "The Origin of the Malayan Metal Age," Prince John Lowenstein, Ph.D., examines the delayed arrival of civilization in Malaya. While Europe and the ancient Near East advanced in metal use thousands of years earlier.

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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 London Missionary Society kept detailed records of its work in spreading Christianity, especially through education and printing. Its missionaries played a key role in producing religious texts and school materials in local languages across Asia.…

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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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The Kedah succession crisis from 1879 to 1882 involved disputes over the rightful heir to the throne after the death of Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin Mukarram Shah. Competing claims led to political tension and intervention by neighboring powers like Siam…

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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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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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The Hervey Malay Collection at the Wellcome Institute holds a wide range of materials on Malay culture, gathered by D.F.A. Hervey in the early 20th century. It includes manuscripts, dictionaries, and notes on customs and medicinal plants from regions…

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The Hakkas is about a group of Chinese people called the Hakka. They moved a lot and settled in different places, including Malaysia. The book talks about their hard work, strong spirit, and how they kept their own language and culture. It also shows…

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A power struggle between Governor Guillemard and Chief Secretary Maxwell shaped British Malaya's administration between 1921 and 1925. The conflict was marked by clashing views on governance, leadership style, and control over policy decisions. Their…

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In "The Fishing Methods of Singapore," T. W. Burdon discusses the evolution of fishing techniques in Singapore from the pre-settlement era to the 1950s.

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In "The Fishing Methods of Kelantan and Trengganu," M. L. Parry explores the traditional fishing techniques used in these two Malaysian states. Unlike other Malay states, Kelantan and Trengganu have been minimally influenced by external fishing…

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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 M.B. Hooker discusses the early adat (traditional law) constitution of Negri Sembilan from 1773-1824, examining the emergence of a centralized state, the roles of matrilineal and patrilineal descent in society, and how patrilineal…

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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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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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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 Rodney Needham explores the use of death-names among the Penan people of middle Borneo, which are names assumed upon the death of close relatives and are based on the birth order of children, discussing the possibility of a similar…

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Tall Tales from Terengganu II presents a collection of local stories and legends from Terengganu, capturing the region's rich oral traditions and cultural heritage. These tales, passed down through generations, reflect the values, beliefs, and…

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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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Succession in the Perak Sultanate follows a unique and complex system based on seniority and rotating titles among royal family members. Rather than direct inheritance from father to son, the system promotes individuals through a ranked structure,…

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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 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 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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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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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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It appeared that there was a conflict between the hospital and the colonial government. The colonial government refused to help the hospital when they were caught in debt despite the hospital serves the colonial needs apart from the poor Chinese…

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Sandakan is a town in Sabah, Malaysia. It tells how the town started, grew, and changed over a century or approximately 100 years. Sandakan was important for trade, especially timber, and many people from different places came to live there. The book…

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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 discusses the 1939 archaeological excavations led by M. W. F. Tweedie in the caves and rock-shelters around Gua Musang in Kelantan, highlighting the sites explored, findings, and acknowledgments for expert assistance.

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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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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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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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The article by M. E. Wayte discusses the geographical and ecological dynamics of the Port Weld area, focusing on the rapid siltation of inshore waters, the growth of mangrove forests, and the impact of these processes on the local river systems and…

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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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Penghulus in Perak and Selangor once held important roles as local leaders, responsible for maintaining order, settling disputes, and managing village affairs. Over time, their influence declined due to colonial restructuring, the rise of modern…

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At the turn of the 20th century, Patani was viewed by many in Malaya as a culturally rich but politically troubled region under growing Siamese control. Malay observers saw the decline of Patani’s autonomy with concern, as it affected their shared…

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