Melayu: Jurnal Antarabangsa Dunia Melayu
Melayu: Jurnal Antarabangsa Dunia Melayu diterbitkan dua kali setahun, iaitu pada bulan Januari dan Julai oleh Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka. Terbitan pertama bermula pada bulan Jun 2003. Walau bagaimanapun jurnal ini pernah dihentikan penerbitannya pada 2007 hingga 2012. Jurnal ini kembali diterbitkan pada Januari 2013. Jurnal ini membicarakan isu dan pemikiran dalam pelbagai bidang dalam Dunia Melayu berdasarkan penyelidikan akademik bagi merakamkan pelbagai sudut tamadun, budaya, pemikiran, kesenian dan kearifan Melayu umumnya. Makalah dalam jurnal ini ditulis dalam bahasa Melayu (dalam kebanyakan makalah) dan dibenarkan juga dalam bahasa Inggeris.
Verification of Meaning in Za'ba's Philosophy
Verification of meaning is the main principle in evaluating the content of expression, whether its meaning is accepted or rejected. In Arab-Islamic and Western philosophies, this principle has been critically studied, especially since the beginning of linguistic shift in the early 20th century. In Malay philosophy, although the verification of meaning is not pursued as in Arab-Islamic and Western philosophies, the awareness of its importance, especially in the concept of original meaning and special meaning as well as the basic method of differentiating meaning has been shown by Za‘ba. This article aims to (1) explain the concept of verification of meaning in Za‘ba’s philosophy, and (2) elaborate on the method of verification of meaning in his philosophy. The data on the concept of verification of meaning involve Za‘ba’s (1919, 1980, 2009) thoughts in the poem titled Kejatuhan Kaum Islam, and the concept of right and wrong in Falsafah Takdir and Perangai Bergantung pada Diri Sendiri. The data on the method of verification of meaning are sourced from Za‘ba’s (2000, 2002) thoughts on deficiency of meaning in Pelita Bahasa Melayu Penggal I-III and differences in meaning in Ilmu Mengarang Melayu. Through the discussion, it was found that awareness and philosophical responsibility were implemented by Za‘ba in laying the foundation for the formation of verification of meaning through the concepts of true, false, meaningful and meaningless, in addition to presenting the conceptual proposal regarding the verification of meaning. He also introduced the method of verification of meaning through the principles of conforming to reality and cognitive reasoning. Full text: PDF
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This article presents and discusses Za‘ba’s book, Rahsia Ejaan Jawi (REJ), in which he describes in great detail the system and characteristics of the Jawi script, both of which form the basis in the formulation of his method of spelling Malay words when using this particular medium of writing. The history of Jawi is discussed based on categories of symbols or letters given in their original forms in the Arabic script, and with this the variations in the shape of each symbol or letter in words; such variations are known as allographs. The unity of symbol and sound is important in this method, which also preserves the aesthetics of the Jawi script. There are many “reminders” given in the guidelines for Jawi script spelling, among them is to not apply the Rumi spelling method (alphabet system) because there is no similarity with the former (syllabic system). Due to the importance of standardization of Jawi spelling for the Malay language, Za‘ba’s other reminder is not to change the spelling of words that have been long accepted, including loanwords from Arabic. Should a change be necessary, the opinions of the community should be taken into consideration. Full text: PDF
Hastadandasastra (The Oldest Manuscript of Sriwijaya) and Historiography of Campu Genre in Malay Literature)
Pengkajian persuratan kerajaan Sriwijaya semakin mendapat perhatian sarjana dan membangun dari dekad ke dekad. Tujuan kajian makalah ini adalah untuk menyejarahkan suatu genre persuratan Melayu yang bercampur antara prosa dengan puisi sebagai peninggalan genre Campū (“campur” dalam bahasa Melayu) dari kerajaan Sriwijaya dan juga untuk menetapkan penamaan bagi persilangan genre antara prosa dengan puisi. Perkara ini berbangkit daripada dua permasalahan kajian, iaitu pertama, sesetengah persuratan Melayu yang dirawikan semenjak kurun ke-14 didapati bersilang antara prosa dengan puisi dan adakah perkara ini merupakan suatu fenomena baharu atau peninggalan daripada gaya persuratan sebelumnya? Kedua, apakah fenomena itu bersifat genre dan apakah penamaannya? Bagi kedua-dua permasalahan tersebut, pendekatan pengkajian persuratan mengikut kerajaan dan pendekatan sastera bandingan telah diambil. Dapatan pertama mendapati bahawa gaya pencampuran prosa dan puisi terdapat dalam karya asing (contoh Jātakamālā dari India) dan setempat (contoh Hastadaṇḍaśāstra) sekitar 687 M-693 M, dan dapatan kedua mendapati bahawa genre tersebut bergelar campū menurut penamaan persuratan Sanskerta bagi Jātakamālā dan lain-lain. Dengan erti kata yang ringkas, gaya pengkaryaan kerajaan Sriwijaya yang bercampur antara prosa dengan puisi, iaitu campū telah bersinambung dengan persuratan Melayu yang terkemudian daripada kerajaan Melaka, Johor, Aceh dan seterusnya. Teks penuh: PDF
The Manifestation of Malaysian Abstract Expressionist Art in the Context of Malaysian Modern Art (The Late 1950s-2010s)
Malaysian Abstract Expressionist art has continued to impact and influence the nation’s art scene since the late 1950s. Malaysian artists such as Syed Ahmad Jamal, Yeoh Jin Leng, Latiff Mohidin and Chew Teng Beng have experimented and explored with abstraction in pursuit of their distinctive style, adding to the dynamic and ever-evolving context of Malaysian art. As the earliest proponents of Abstract Expressionist art in Malaysia, their influences are still strong today, as can be observed in the works of the following artists who achieved prominence in the Malaysian abstract art scene in the late 1970s: Sharifah Fatimah Zubir, Yusof Ghani, Rafiee Ghani, Suzlee Ibrahim and Awang Damit Ahmad. Thus, this paper aims to elucidate the connection between abstract art creativity and the aforementioned artists by examining the selected artworks produced by them. In this case, the domesticating strategy facilitated the transformation of Abstract Expressionism into the art creation of nine Malaysian artists, who used diverse abstraction approaches to convey their inner spirit. Based on the authors’ observation, the diverse abstraction trends bridge a connection between these two generations of Malaysian artists. Through the application of Edmund Felman’s visual analysis method, their works are observed to exhibit a variety of abstraction trends that have contributed to the diversification of Malaysian Abstract Expressionist art, which can be seen in gestural, pure, organic and calligraphic abstraction. Full text: PDF
An Analysis of The Importance of Tattoo and Their Motifs in Iban Community Culture through the Philosophy of "Alam Takambang Jadi Guru"
This research explains a local wisdom of the Iban ethnic group, that is, tattoo tradition. The practice of traditional tattooing in the Iban ethnic group is viewed as a unique culture because it has its own story and purpose. The symbolism of tattoos with elements of nature through the philosophy of “alam takambang jadi guru” is often used to express ideas and meaning about their culture and life. The objective of this study is to identify the relationship of nature as a teacher in the Iban ethnic group, discuss the importance of nature-based tattoo in the Iban ethnic group, and analyse the meaning of tattoo motifs in the Iban ethnic group. This research uses a qualitative approach through the methods of full observation and in-depth interview with informants. The result of the study found that the Iban ethnic group believe that nature teaches people to think creatively. Therefore, through nature, the Iban ethnic group produce creativity that uses natural resources of tattooing tradition to show local wisdom in their culture. Every event that occurs in the life of the Iban ethnic group cannot be separated from nature, that is, they believe that nature has spirit, soul, and strength that must be respected. The aesthetic value of the tattoo tradition can also be seen in the motifs produced with the inspiration of nature. Tattoo motifs with elements of nature are also considered to be able to inject elements of strength, symbolizing a person’s social status and achievements in various matters. This shows that nature acts as a teacher or as a guide for the Iban ethnic group in their daily life. Full text: PDF
Analysis of Perceptions of University Students in Southern Thailand towards Jawi Script: A Case Study of Students at the Syeikh Daud Al-Fathani Islamic College, Yala, Thailand
Jawi script is the main medium of Malay language writing in Southern Thailand, specifically Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, Satun, and several other districts in the Songkhla region that were previously part of the Malay Sultanates of Patani and Kedah-Perlis before their cession to the Thai national territory based on the Anglo-Siamese Agreement of 1909. This study aims to identify the perceptions of university (IPT) students in Southern Thailand towards Jawi script. This study uses a quantitative approach as data collection medium through survey research design via a questionnaire involving 30 IPT first-degree students at the Syeikh Daud alFathani Islamic College (KISDA) in Yala, Southern Thailand. The data obtained from the questionnaire were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings show that the university students have a positive perception of the Jawi script. The ability to use Jawi script is important as a symbol of Patani Malay identity, which dictates a high perceived value. This study somewhat illustrates the importance of Jawi script among the young Malay generation and its role as a marker of Patani Malay national identity. Full text: PDF
The Role of Kampung Teluk Kepayang as Cultural Heritage in Elevating Malay Culture
In an effort to deepen the culture of the Malay people, the continuation of heritage and culture by the next generation can lift and preserve Malay cultural traditions in the community, especially in the younger generation. The preservation of Malay culture in society needs to be strengthened to prevent it from being marginalized and under threat. The cultural heritage village, Kampung Teluk Ketapang in Bota Kiri, Perak, has its own uniqueness and is different from other villages in Malaysia, where this village was formed as an initiative to dignify the cultural heritage of the Perak community. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the role of this village in uplifting Malay culture. This study has used the program proposed by the Cultural Mapping of the National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) for the sub-culture section and analysed the data on the cultural activities. The results of the study found that the cultural and traditional activities that are still practiced in the said village have helped to revive Malay culture in the community, especially in the current young generation, and to some extent have boosted the tourism industry in Perak. In conclusion, this writing is expected to be able to provide awareness and knowledge to the community about the dignity of Malay culture through the existence of Kampung Teluk Kepayang, Bota Kiri, Perak, and even empower Malay culture in Malaysia. Full text: PDF
The Issue of Malay Language in Johor in Lembaga Malaya before the Second World War
This writing discusses the issue of Malay language (Bahasa Melayu) before the Second World War by focusing on Lembaga Malaya. As a newspaper that spread many views and ideas about Bahasa Melayu, Lembaga Melaya was responsible in calling on the local community to restore the dignity of their own language after the introduction of foreign languages by colonizers eroded the position of Bahasa Melayu as the main language. The development of Bahasa Melayu before British colonization is provided early in the discussion before comprehensively discussing Lembaga Melaya’s struggle in reviving the language. This writing used descriptive analysis method on Lembaga Melaya, supported by other primary and secondary sources. Several statistical data on the said topic were also included. The discussion of the topic's scope and time only covers incidences and progress from the 20th century until before the start of the Second World War. This period saw the significant development of the writing and publishing of newspapers and magazines among the local community in Johor. Equipped with its own objectives and focus on the state of Johor as the birthplace of Lembaga Melaya, this article contains the policies and strategies planned by the British to erode the position of Bahasa Melayu in Malaya. This article also describes the cries and calls to defend the dignity of Bahasa Melayu in Johor, and examines Lembaga Melaya's struggle in issues related to Bahasa Melayu. This writing also provides an overview of Lembaga Melaya’s role in defending and dignifying Bahasa Melayu until results were seen. Full text: PDF
The The Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation and Its Impact on Penang Port, 1963-1966
The relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia had already shown conflict since before the confrontation, or konfrontasi. However, after the proposal for the formation of ​​Malaysia was first announced by Tunku Abdul Rahman, the then-Chief Minister of the Federation of Malaya, the relationship between the two countries experienced a period of significant and prominent conflict. This study discusses the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation and its impact on Penang Port from 1963 to 1966. This study was conducted using qualitative method, specifically the analysis of documents and manuscripts. The references used are primary sources comprising British records and Malaysian official records, while the secondary sources comprise journals, articles, scholarly books, newspapers, and magazines. The economic relationship between Malaysia and Indonesia was severely damaged during the confrontation. The number of imports and exports involving Indonesia at the Penang Port decreased drastically, but did not stop during the confrontation. Nonetheless, upon comparing the overall growth value of trade at Penang Port during the confrontation, the decrease in the amount of trade that occurred between Indonesia and Penang Port was not very significant. Also, this decrease was not mainly caused by the confrontation, but by the sudden drop in iron ore exports. In conclusion, the slight decrease in the total trade at Penang Port during the confrontation was not solely caused by the confrontation itself and the impact on the whole trade performance at Penang Port in the said period was not that significant. Full text: PDF
Kamus Dewan Perdana: Issues and Clarification
Kamus Dewan Perdana (KDP) (2021) is the first Malay language dictionary in the world that utilizes corpus data and websites as data sources. Big data from these various sources allow various data to be obtained and recorded in the system. Based on the given entries and literal meanings, it turns out that the use of this dictionary requires good background knowledge of the Malay language and aspects of grammar, and this is not as easy as it seems. This paper highlights some morphological issues (affixes, meanings of affixes and word classes) that seem to demand further explanation and need to be unraveled based on several selected entries found in KDP (2021). To clarify this confusion, this study also utilizes the main sources of KDP (2021), which are the fourth edition of Kamus Dewan (2016) and other main sources for word classes mentioned on page xvii. If this confusion is not resolved, the impact on users, especially students, teachers, students in institutions of higher learning, and the public, is huge. Therefore, to ensure that the Malay language continues to be sustainable, and that the dignity of the Malay language continues to be upheld and exalted, KDP (2021) must prove its authority as an authentic and certified reference for general users and not be limited to only those who have a background in Malay linguistics or a high command of the Malay language. Several of the issues that are raised in KDP (2021) and the explanations given here are expected to be referred to by general readers, and the nature of this dictionary should be understood as a recorder of Malay vocabulary and not a source for aspects of grammar. Full text: PDF
Narrative Tourism: A Study of The Potential of Folklore as a Source of Tourism in Perak and Sarawak
Nowadays, the tourism industry is seen to be growing, within which cultural tourism plays its own role in generating a country's income. The practice of tourists travelling to certain locations to experience and learn about cultural differences is known as cultural tourism. When it comes to cultural tourism, the narrative experience is a vital component for tourists to appreciate the main attraction, therefore, making it narrative tourism. In Malaysia, narrative tourism is still underutilised, and there is limited research in this area. Thus, this article discusses how narrative tourism can be explored in two tourist destinations in Malaysia, namely Pulau Pangkor in Perak and Gunung Santubong in Sarawak. The first finding shows that there is no constructive effort to recognise narrative as a tourism resource for Pulau Pangkor, particularly with regard to the story of the hero, Din Ketolok, as well as a few other monuments that are believed to embody their own meaning and event. Meanwhile, the finding on Gunung Santubong shows that it already has a significant narrative of the battle between the Princesses Santubong and Sejinjang, who were ultimately cursed by the King to become mountains. However, its jungle trek to the mountain peak is not a cultural route, which perhaps would be disappointing to tourists who are interested in cultural routes. Nonetheless, with due work and effort, it could become more exploratory and intriguing as a narrative tourism destination. This study shows how stories can transform both locations into suitable destinations for narrative tourism in order to flourish in cultural tourism. To achieve this, narrative tourism requires special attention from the tourism industry authorities. Full text: PDF
The Shaping of Malaysian Abstract Expressionist Art within the Context of Malaysian Modern Art (1950s-1970s)
Abstract Expressionism is an art form that began in the West and later gained influence in the East. In the years after World War II, Abstract Expressionism became the catalyst in the transition of modern art in Asia. In Malaysia, with the advocacy of Abstract Expressionism and the spirit of Expressionism, abstract art became mainstream in the art scene since the 1950s. Abstract Expressionism from two different worlds—America and/or Europe and Malaysia—is different, especially in terms of the artists’ respective approach and creativity. This article discusses how the evolution of abstraction works through the artworks produced by Syed Ahmad Jamal, Yeoh Jin Leng, Latiff Mohidin, and Chew Teng Beng. This is followed by a discussion on the diversity of abstraction forms in Malaysian Abstract Expressionist art through the study of works by the aforementioned artists. Full text: PDF
The Origin and Function of The Tattoo Tradition in Iban Culture
This research explains the origin and purpose of traditional tattooing in the culture of the Iban community in Sarawak. The tradition of tattooing is part of the culture of the Iban community, and is considered sacred because it is believed to connect the soul of the Iban community to their petara (god). This research used an overall qualitative approach. The data were obtained by conducting observation and interviews with informants who have expertise in the tattoo tradition. The study found that each tattoo motif of the Iban community has its own meaning and function for the group that owns it. This is because in the heritage belief of the Iban community, tattoos are a symbolic gift from petara for an achievement or success experienced in their daily life. Therefore, the tradition of tattooing is seen as a sacred and mystical cultural trait of the Iban community. The Iban community lives in a natural environment. For them, nature is used as a source of ideas and inspiration to produce tattoo motifs. This shows that the Iban community and nature have a close and mutually beneficial relationship. This phenomenon shows that the Iban community greatly appreciates nature, which serves as the main idea in shaping their cultural traditions. Through nature, the Iban community produces a tattoo that describes the nature and character of a person and has characteristics similar to the natural life in their community. Full text: PDF
Tracking Malay Vocabulary: Data in Pigafetta's Dictionary (1521)
This article studies the oldest Malay dictionary based on data collected by Antonio Pigafetta in 1521. This dictionary, which was organized by Pigafetta himself (1522-1524) and published in part in 1536, survives in the Ambrosiana manuscript in Milan, Italy (Robertson 1906). Only a few 20th-century scholars have studied these lexical data. However, for various reasons, the identification of the meanings and sources of these lexical items has not been adequately explored. At the present time, 500 years after Pigafetta's fieldwork, new materials are available and can be utilized. This article examines some of the data in Pigafetta's dictionary in order to understand the sociolinguistic setting in East Nusantara at that time as well as to trace the meanings and sources of the 1521 data. Full text: PDF
The Implementation of Reward Techniques and their Effectiveness to Attract Students in Learning Malay Language during Learning and Teaching at Home
This study was conducted to see the types of reward techniques that have been used by teachers and their effectiveness to attract students’ interest in learning Malay language during teaching and learning at home (PdPR). A total of 90 primary school teachers teaching Malay language were involved in this study. All the teachers come from two districts in Sarawak. This quantitative study uses a survey study design. A questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms to collect the data. The findings are explained descriptively to report its frequency, mean, standard deviation, and percentage. The results of the analysis showed that the primary school teachers of Malay language mainly used the physical and social reward techniques during PdPR based on the highest mean value. From the reaction of the students towards the rewards, it is found that the teachers of Malay language mainly used emotional, cognitive and social reactions to increase the interest of students while learning Malay language during PdPR. Similarly, giving rewards impacted the interest and grades of the students when learning Malay language during PdPR. The implication of this study is that reward techniques can increase the interest of students to learn even though the learning occurs online. In summary, Malay language teachers can use reward techniques as an effective online teaching and learning method (PdP) to teach students at home. Full text: PDF
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Applying Dedicatory Pantun of Separation in Oral Assessment as Blended Learning Outcome
The discussion on teaching Malay pantun by means of innovative pedagogy follows the lead towards progressive Malay language education. In sustaining the Malay pantun, a series of methodologies are proposed as techniques that can provide a basic understanding of the four-line pantun to foreign language students, thus achieving an outcome that is indicative of high-level thinking skills. The pedagogical approach in question enabled two non-native students of Malay as a Foreign Language at the National University of Singapore (NUS) to voluntarily produce a four-line pantun as part of an oral recording in online learning via Zoom. The students’ responses are considered as a blended learning outcome that merits a close study of teaching Malay as a foreign language. Deductively, we focus on a combination of pedagogy in a lecture on their skill to create pantun. There are three sets of teaching appropriated in the complementary lecture. Firstly, the teaching of various monkey names to the students in order to develop their fauna terms in the construction of foreshadow in pantun and to improve their command of Malay proper nouns. Secondly, the teaching of Malay onomatopoeia as an appropriate element in pantun coinage so as to evoke their awareness of the Malayness language instinct. Thirdly, using a video clip of social interaction that displays the alternating acts of pantun exchange in order to broaden their vision to the practice of reciprocal pantun chanting, which remains well appreciated by the Malay speakers. The network of language pedagogy highlighted in inculcating their skills of pantun coinage is recommended as an effective blended teaching method. Full text: PDF
Flower Bath: A Preliminary Research on Its Practice and Function in Malay Society
This paper discusses the flower bath as a practice and its function in Malay society. Bathing with certain flowers is a cultural tradition in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and other related countries. This study aims to provide a clear understanding of flower bath, including its practice and function in Malay society. This study uses the interview method with a traditional medicine practitioner who has been and still upholds the custom of flower bath in Parit Haji Amin, Sungai Rawa, Parit Buntar. This method was carried out in January 2021 to obtain primary sources and justification for the selection based on her experience of being involved in traditional medicine for 30 years and remains active in traditional medicine work. The results found that flower bath involves various types of flowers, along with its preparation method and the purpose of its implementation. Moreover, it is found that flower bath has animism, dynamism and Hindu and Buddhist beliefs concerning the spirit and soul. The practice of flower bath has various purposes, such as enhancing a bride’s glow, dispelling bad luck and obtaining a wish, such as obtaining black magic, position, allure and wearing charm needles (susuk). However, this practice of flower bath is no longer popular in the Malay community because most of them have changed to commercial flower bath. In addition, the tradition of flower bath practiced by the Malay community highly contradicts Islamic teachings because there is an element of believing in spirits, which can lead to polytheism. Full text: PDF
The Implications of the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1824 on the Demarcation and Economy of Sebatik Island
This paper discusses the implications that happened to the borders and economy of Sebatik Island as a result of the Treaty of London on March 17, 1824, involving two colonial powers, namely the British and the Dutch. This agreement, known as an oath of allegiance, is also called the Anglo-Dutch Treaty (1824), which resolved the dispute between the British and the Dutch in the Anglo-Dutch Treaty (1814). The agreements involving these two great powers indirectly had implications on their respective colonies at that time. This great impact resulted in the Malay Islands being divided into two spheres of influence, namely the British influence and the Dutch influence. Eventually, there was a split involving the Johor-Riau Empire, when Singapore and the Mainland of Johor fell under British rule, while the Riau Islands were under Dutch rule. Although this agreement seemed to give complete satisfaction to the two colonial powers, it was not able to end the competition that existed between the two said powers. On the contrary, as a result of this agreement, the British and the Dutch were seen to compete more fiercely in having colonies. This was what happened on an island in the northern part of Borneo, bordering East Kalimantan (now North Kalimantan), known as Sebatik Island. Sebatik Island received direct implications due to the dividing line involving the island, as outlined in the Treaty of London of 1824. The study carried out shows that the straight line of the border still remains until today, involving two national entities, namely Malaysia and Indonesia. This study uses qualitative methods. The information is obtained from previous studies, official documents such as files and microfilms, as well as The Colonial Office (CO), Foreign Office (FO) and North Borneo Central Archive (NBCA) in the State Archives of Sabah. The findings show that the London Treaty of 1824 had a direct impact on the people of Sebatik Island, starting after the end of Western colonization in Malaysia in 1963 and in Indonesia in 1945. Therefore, this paper dissects the factors that led to the Treaty of London of 1824, and the effect on the border and economy of Sebatik Island. Full text: PDF
Kamus Dewan Perdana: A Glimpse at Etymological Information
In 2020, Kamus Dewan Perdana (KDP) made its appearance on the stage of history as the best Malay dictionary since the publication of Wilkinson’s dictionary in 1932—almost one hundred years ago. Among the aspects of KDP that stand out as praiseworthy is the effort to present etymological information for some of the entries. In this essay, a few of the 7000 etymologies found in KDP were selected as data to be compared with the format and content of etymologies in other general dictionaries. The etymologies selected here include both inherited words and loanwords. Furthermore, the problems of confusing etymologies as well as gaps in etymological information in KDP are also reviewed. By surveying selected examples in this way, it becomes obvious that any revisions to KDP’s etymological information must be based on a standard operating procedure (SOP) that should be discussed and decided together. Full text: PDF
Perau Bangkong as an Iban Weapon of War: A Cultural Materials Analysis
The Iban community in Sarawak is an agrarian community and does not practice maritime culture in their lifestyle. However, the influence of ngayau practices that have been carried out for generations has enabled them to dominate the ocean using perau bangkong in carrying out war expeditions. The perau bangkong is a symbol of courage and cultural identity in the Iban community. The wars that took place among the Iban ethnic group, or with other ethnic groups such as the Malay, Bidayuh, Urang Ulu and the Brooke army up to the settlement of the Dayak and Banjar communities in Kalimantan have made the perau bangkong famous and feared on the island of Borneo at that time. The objective of this study is to provide an understanding and knowledge about the culture of perau bangkong. This research is in the form of ethnography that uses qualitative methods in its data collection. The findings of the study indicate that perau bangkong has a significant history in the historical legacy of the Iban community in Sarawak. Even though the Iban community no longer practice the ngayau custom, the story and inspiration in the struggle of perau bangkong has spirit in the formation of the community’s identity in the culture and art of their ancestors. The significance of this research is that it can archive and form an understanding through perau bangkong cultural objects as well as celebrate diversity in the cultural togetherness of Malaysians. Full text: PDF
Reti Bahasa dalam Pemikiran Hassan Ahmad dan Potensi Keilmuannya
Developing an indigenous mold of scientific framework requires a conceptual formulation of an important term. It needs to be anchored in principle encompassing the philosophical, theoretical and methodological implications so that the term produced will become the basis of a research program. This paper aims to develop such a concept that is exclusive in Malay linguistics, which is proposed as reti bahasa. The analysis begins by debating reti bahasa according to Hassan Ahmad (2016), who uses the term tahu bahasa. The meaning of tahu bahasa is explained, and the reasons for replacing it with reti bahasa are also given. The term reti bahasa is then debated according to its etymological, historical and sociological perspectives to highlight its original meaning. Four main principles are coined from its original meaning, namely tatabahasa, tataberbahasa, tatalaku and tatafikir. Evidence of the existence of these four principles are subsequently linked to the works written by the indigenous scholars who not only described the linguistic system and structure of Malay linguistics, but also transcended the ‘perfection’ of the system and structure to ‘perfecting’ the personality of the speaker. The paper also asserts that the concept of reti bahasa is likely to prove the existence of an authentic Malay linguistic tradition. Full text: PDF
The Construction of Shariah-Compliant Museum Guidelines in Malaysia
Nowadays, the role of museums are prominent in society. It has served as a multi-functional institution as an economic generator, custodian of heritage, carrier of the national development agenda and educational tool. All of them are directly related to efforts to dignify Islam in life. However, despite all these functions, there are still no shariah-compliant museum guidelines that museum institutions can refer to. To that end, this study will try to develop guidelines for syariah-compliant museums using two main methods. The first method is the method of content analysis of materials related to museums and Islam. The second method is the Fuzzy Delphi method, which is a method of obtaining the confirmation of museum, culture and Islamic law experts about the syariah-compliant museum guidelines that suit the Malaysian values. The results of this study will produce two sharia-compliant museum guidelines for museums in Malaysia. This guideline consists of the aspects of (a) curators and (b) museum artifacts. Both of these guidelines contain an Islamic world-view that is adapted to the current Malaysian culture and values. Full text: PDF
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Diplomatic Knowledge as National Wisdom in Traditional Malay Literature
Malay manuscripts are valuable documents that have records of the government and administration of a Malay Sultanate. Based on the records, there are various knowledge that can be searched as national wisdom. National wisdom is a collection of local knowledge that benefits the community, besides proving the intellectual peak of the past, which can be inherited by the community. Among the types of knowledge that are identified is diplomatic knowledge, which is knowledge of how a government manages its international affairs. The development of management and reinforcement of the stability of the Malay Sultanate is based on this relationship. The diverse sharing of organizational resources and natural materials made the relationship between two or more governments closer and based on mutual trust. However, diplomatic knowledge as national wisdom is still not fully explored in studies. Therefore, this article describes and analyzes diplomatic knowledge as national wisdom by using Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa as the material of discussion. As such, library methods and text analysis were used to achieve the objectives of the study. The results of this study showed that, on the whole, there is a form and method to handling diplomatic knowledge as national wisdom through selected manuscripts. This study can contribute knowledge to researchers in other related fields in order to utilize the data that have been recorded by previous authors in Malay manuscripts. Full text: PDF
Around the World with Words: Lessons from 17th Century Malay Dictionary
The attention of the English in the 17th century towards the development of the Malay language can be presumed as a part of fierce competition between them and their rival, the Dutch (VOC). This stiff competition was not only limited to the monopoly of trade, but also territorial disputes, support from local governments as well as trading advantages. All these environmental factors influenced the English involvement in the production of texts in the Malay language, such as dictionaries, travelogues, religious books and other manuscripts that describe the race, language and land at the time. Thomas Bowrey (TB), for example, was a British merchant who sailed in the Malay Archipelago in the 17th century and became renowned for publishing the first English-Malay dictionary in 1701. Bowrey also produced other works on the Malay language, compiling enormous information about Malay civilization and policy in the 17th century as well as the role, attention and interest of the English in the effort to illustrate the development of the time. This paper discusses proof of the evolution and policy of the Malay civilization in Bowrey’s manuscript. The discussion focuses on navigation jargon in the manuscript. The data are discussed based on etymology approach (Collins, 2003 & 2018). This paper concludes that the data in Bowery’s manuscript show the attention and curiosity of the English towards the Malay language that did not only emerge because of the attestation by the EIC, but also because of the scientific environment and scholarship of the Malay language and people in the 17th century. Full text: PDF
Mystical Philosophy of Syncretism: Research on Rectangular Structures in the Visual Illustrations of the "Pelaga Lembu" Manuscript
The dimension of traditional arts in the Malay world is famous for its diversity of elements of mystical syncretism. At the same time, it reflects the local community’s intellectual and cultural thinking. This intermingled and cross-cultural practice is manifested in every discipline through a visual sign system that has existed for a long time until it has caused confusion between what is true and false. This study in the context of visual arts will involve several basic structures of the square in the practice of translating visual imagery, in particular the optical illusion effect of the visual illustration of chapter marks and wafak found in the Pelaga Lembu manuscript from Kelantan-Patani, kept by the National Centre for Malay Manuscripts, National Library of Malaysia. The sign and meaning system of this element is interpreted using theoretical methods from the semiotic framework of the Inderalogy Model. Each basic frame of the square that becomes the reinforcement structure of the visual component is separated in the strain of rare knowledge. In order to scientifically balance the influence of mystical syncretism and the material of traditional arts, the researcher also looked at the meaning of this element through various cultural perspectives that once inhabited Malay culture. The results of the study found that there is an overlap of double meaning values from Pythagorean philosophy, Sufism, Hinduism and Buddhism, Kabbalah, animism and Israelite influences, which have been processed and accepted systematically into the core of common sense and integration. Full text: PDF
War as Conflict Resolution in Syair Perang Menteng
This study discusses war as conflict resolution in Syair Perang Menteng. The objective of this study is to clarify the conflict between Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II and Muntighe that was resolved by war only. It is undeniable that several methods were used to avoid a war from happening, but all of them failed to reach an agreement. To discuss in detail, the war theory that Sun Tzu introduced in his book, The Art of War (2002), was used to achieve the objective of this study. Sun Tzu has listed 13 war strategies, which are valuation, battle launching, planning attack, strategic positions, strategic advantages, weaknesses and strengths of armed conflict, adapting to the nine possibilities, deploying troops, terrain, nine types of terrain, arson attacks, and using spies. Based on the analysis of Syair Perang Menteng, Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II applied this strategy in the war against the Dutch. In addition to the strategies based on Sun Tzu’s views, Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II also had superiority in forming war strategies. Among the superior strategies owned by Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II was placing Allah and the Islamic faith as the primary basis of the war against the Dutch and having the full support and obedience of the Palembang community. The superiority of this war strategy successfully gave victory to the Palembang side in this battle, and they successfully resolved the conflict between these two sides through war. Full text: PDF
The Traditional Dusun Community's Worldview on Nature Conservation through Rice Cultivation
The traditional Dusun community believes in the existence of a creator and the created. All creations in the universe need to be kind to each other for the purpose of balance and harmony in nature. The Dusun community believes that the natural disasters that occur on the slopes of Mount Kinabalu are the result of human negligence of other inhabitants of nature, especially those that are involved in the exploration of agricultural land. This study aims to identify the practices and beliefs of the traditional Dusun community in preserving the environment through rice cultivation activities. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews and direct observation of rice cultivation activities in three villages near the slopes of Mount Kinabalu, Sabah. The result showed the existence of elements of practices and beliefs in the phases of land clearing, planting, and harvesting rice. Ritual ceremonies such as magawoi, pobobor do boros, madsalud, pasalakoi bambarayon, and so on are aimed at beseeching Kinorohingan and good spirits to bless the agricultural land, grow rice, and provide sufficient yields to farmers. The forms of practices and beliefs carried out by the traditional Dusun community in agricultural activities can help prevent deforestation, forest burning, and the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This can indirectly help the government’s efforts in preserving the environment. The Dusun community that practices a collective culture also successfully applies the value of mogitatabang when working in agriculture. These values should be applied among the current generation as a medium for building a cooperative and collaborative human model, apart from being able to preserve cultural heritage. Full text: PDF
Reconstruction of the Consonant Phoneme of Proto Rio De Panagim
The Linggi dialect is reported to have its own phonological structure, distinguishing it from its closest Melaka-Johor-Riau variant. A historical linguistic investigation was done in the Kuala Linggi region, also known as Rio De Panagim, to determine the extent to which this Malay dialectal phenomenon is parallel. The data observation procedure for the application of the historical linguistic theory of structuralism in the North Melaka region involves a total of eight focal areas. The techniques used in the field include dialogue, recording, interview, acting, and the submission of photos. The first finding of this study shows that the ancient form of Kuala Linggi (Proto-Malay dialect of Kuala Linggi) has 18 ancient consonants, namely *p, *b, *t, *d, *k, *ɡ, *m, *n, *ɲ, *ŋ, *s, *ɣ, *h, *tʃ, *ʤ, *l, *w, and *j. Secondly, on the basis of the retention of Proto-Malayic characteristics at the initial syllable and the last closed syllable, this study suggests that the Kuala Linggi dialect is more identical to the Melaka-Johor variant than the Linggi-Negeri-Sembilan variant. This simultaneously positions the Kuala Linggi dialect under the Melaka-Johor variation branch and at the borderline of the Linggi mixed dialect’s spread. However, this conclusion is far from convincing based on this small study alone. Therefore, this study strongly suggests that these findings be strengthened by additional research on Kuala Linggi diphthongs and vowels, thereby completing the historical linguistics study of the region. Full text: PDF
Mochtar Lubis: A Global Thinker Rooted In Humanity
This paper examines Mochtar Lubis as a global humanist thinker who utilised literature and journalism to advocate universal humanistic values. The study addresses three main questions: (1) the meaning of global humanity as conceptualised by Mochtar Lubis, (2) the significance he attributed to discussions of global humanity, and (3) the extent to which Eastern writers can critically interpret these ideas. The objectives of this research are to identify characteristics of global humanity within his works, clarify their significance within literary and intellectual contexts, analyse these concepts as reflected in his writing, and evaluate the alignment of his ideas with discourses from thinkers of the Global South. A hermeneutic approach is employed to interpret Mochtar Lubis’s literary works within the historical, social, and postcolonial political contexts. The findings show his strong stance on social justice, women's empowerment, and opposition to authoritarianism and corruption. His ideas rejected violence and ideological domination, emphasising instead human dignity and global peace. The paper concludes that Mochtar Lubis was not merely an Indonesian literary figure but a global intellectual who significantly contributed to shaping universal discourse on humanity from a perspective of the Global South. Full text: PDF
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The Role of the Parang Ilang in Iban Material Culture in Sarawak
This study explores the parang Ilang through the lens of Iban civilisation and culture, highlighting its significance as a symbol of their historical grandeur and civilisational achievement in Sarawak. The parang Ilang is a traditional tool of logistics that plays a crucial role in Iban material culture in Sarawak. Beyond being a tool for defence and hunting, the Iban parang Ilang symbolises social status, heroism, strength, courage, and heritage passed down through generations. It also serves as a cultural identity marker, reflecting intellectual values and aspirations that are deeply rooted in everyday life. However, various factors have altered the cultural patterns of the Iban during the colonial era. Additionally, modernisation and globalisation have weakened contemporary Iban society’s ability to comprehend the origins and significance of the parang ilang within their material culture. In light of this, the present study aims to analyse the role of the parang Ilang within the Iban material culture, encompassing its use in warfare, traditional rituals, traditional healing practices, and as a legacy and heirloom. The research employs a qualitative ethnographic methodology grounded in fieldwork, utilising participant and non-participant observations as well as triangulated interviews with informants. Fleming’s theory (1974) is applied to data analysis. The findings reveal that the parang Ilang retains relevance and continues to be practised within contemporary Iban material culture. Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of appreciating the role of parang Ilang, thereby enabling younger generations to better recognise and understand the struggles and cultural heritage of their ancestors before the advent of modernity. Full text: PDF