Malay Traditions and Science

Introduction 

 Malays Orang Melayu, Jawi: أورڠ ملايو‎) are an Austronesian ethnoreligious group native to eastern Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula and coastal Borneo, as well as the smaller islands that lie between these locations. These locations are today part of the countries of Malaysia, Indonesia (eastern and southern Sumatra, Bangka Belitung Islands, West Kalimantan and Riau Islands), the southern part of Thailand (Pattani, Satun, Songkhla, Yala and Narathiwat), Singapore and Brunei Darussalam.

There is considerable linguistic, cultural, artistic and social diversity among the many Malay subgroups, mainly due to hundreds of years of immigration and assimilation of various regional ethnicities and tribes within Maritime Southeast Asia. Historically, the Malay population is descended primarily from the earlier Malayic-speaking Austronesians and Austroasiatic tribes who founded several ancient maritime trading states and kingdoms, notably Brunei, Kedah, Langkasuka, Gangga Negara, Chi Tu, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pahang, Melayu and Srivijaya.

The advent of the Malacca Sultanate in the 15th century triggered a major revolution in Malay history, the significance of which lies in its far-reaching political and cultural legacy. Common definitive markers of Malayness—the religion of Islam, the Malay language and traditions—are thought to have been promulgated during this era, resulting in the ethnogenesis of the Malay as a major ethnoreligious group in the region. In literature, architecture, culinary traditions, traditional dress, performing arts, martial arts and royal court traditions, Malacca set a standard that later Malay sultanates emulated. The golden age of the Malay sultanates in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo saw many of their inhabitants, particularly from various tribal communities like the Batak, Dayak, Orang Asli and the Orang Laut become subject to Islamisation and Malayisation. In the course of history, the term "Malay" has been extended to other ethnic groups within the "Malay world"; this usage is nowadays largely confined to Malaysia and Singapore, where descendants of immigrants from these ethnic group are termed as anak dagang ("traders") and who are predominantly from the Indonesian archipelago such as the Acehnese, Banjarese, Bugis, Mandailing, Minangkabau and Javanese.

Throughout their history, the Malays have been known as a coastal-trading community with fluid cultural characteristics. They absorbed, shared and transmitted numerous cultural features of other local ethnic groups, such as those of Minang and Acehnese.

Ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malays_(ethnic_group) 

Malays (ethnic group). (2024, October 30). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malays_(ethnic_group)

Personal Touch as Malaysian

Malaysia has a unique and united diversity of multicultural and religious communities that not many other countries have. The various races bring historical talents into the working culture and contribute to the economic growth of the country. Malaysia is home to multi-talented minds, including scientific, artistic, creative, and innovative individuals from mixed-talented cultures. I worked with a Malay group of people in the industry, and I find them to be very patient and artistic. They have an incredible politeness and interest in the arts that draw people from all around the world to get to know them. They are helpful and lively, placing utmost importance on human affairs and family bonding. Malaysia is often an ideal choice for visitors around the globe, largely due to its unique cultural exchanges and diverse culinary offerings. One major factor is the warmth and hospitality of the Malay people. Their politeness, respect for others, and a deep sense of community are quite inviting. This openness, combined with their rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, makes them appealing to people from other countries.

Building business relationships with them is indeed a wise choice. Their politeness and strong sense of community foster trust and loyalty, creating a reliable foundation for any business partnership. Plus, their diverse skill sets and cultural richness bring unique perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.

Hidden Science in Malay Tradition and Culture

Village House 

A traditional Malay "rumah kampung" (village house) is a fascinating example of sustainable architecture and local wisdom.

Tirta Sari Bungalow Pemuteran

1. Stilts: The house is built on stilts to protect against wild animals, and floods, and to increase ventilation.
2. Materials: Renewable natural materials like timber and bamboo are used. Nails are rarely used; instead, pre-cut holes and grooves fit the timber elements together.
3. Design: The house typically has partitioned rooms, a front staircase, and a vernacular roof. Wood carvings adorn the home, reflecting Malay motifs.
4. Layout: The main areas are divided into three sections: the serambi (foyer), rumah ibu (main area), and dapur (kitchen). A long wooden-floored walkway often connects the main area and the kitchen.
5. Ventilation: Slanted wooden panels in windows can be adjusted for ventilation.
6. These houses are not just homes but also reflect a strong sense of community and harmony with nature.

Process of building

building a traditional Malay "rumah kampung" is an intricate process that blends architectural know-how with cultural heritage. 

• Site Selection: Choose a suitable location, often elevated, to avoid flooding.
• Stilts Installation: Erect wooden stilts to raise the house above the ground. This ensures protection from water,  pests, and improves ventilation.
• Frame Construction: Build the frame using strong, lightweight timber. Traditional techniques involve fitting timber together without nails, using grooves and joints instead.
• Roof Assembly: Construct the roof with steep angles to help rainwater run off. Traditionally, the roof is made from thatched palm leaves or bamboo shingles.
• Walls and Floors: Create walls and floors with timber planks. The walls may feature slatted wooden panels for natural light and ventilation.
• Decorative Elements: Add intricate wood carvings and motifs that reflect Malay artistry. These elements often tell stories or represent cultural symbols.
• Windows and Doors: Install wooden windows with adjustable slats to control airflow and maintain privacy. Doors are typically ornate and carved.
• Finishing Touches: Complete the house with a front staircase leading to the serambi (foyer), a spacious rumah ibu (main area), and a dapur (kitchen).

Traditional kites

Traditional kites in Malaysia, have one of the most famous is the Wau Bulan (moon kite). 

Wau Bulan (moon kite)

1. Design: The Wau Bulan is crescent moon-shaped, with intricate floral and geometric patterns. The size can be quite large, around 2.5 meters in width and 3.5 meters in length.
2. Materials: It's made from bamboo and coloured paper, with the designs cut out meticulously by skilled artisans.
3. Cultural Significance: The Wau Bulan is a symbol of Malaysian culture, especially in the states of Kelantan and Terengganu. It's often flown during festivals and competitions.
4. Flying: When flown, the kite's design and patterns are beautifully visible against the sky, making it a stunning sight. 

This kite tradition is historically important for Malays for several hidden reasons. This is a story narrated sample of the reason why.

Story of Echoes of Kampung Harmony

In the heart of Malaysia, nestled among lush green paddy fields and swaying coconut trees, lies a quaint village known as Kampung Seri Lestari. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing the richness of life to unfold in every smile, every sound, and every scent.

In this village, Amin, a skilled kite maker whose creations are known far and wide. Amin’s passion was inherited from his grandfather, a man whose kites once danced in the skies of every festival. Each day, Amin would sit on the porch of his traditional rumah kampung, carving intricate designs and carefully piecing together bamboo and paper.

Amin’s favourite creation was the Wau Bulan, a moon kite that he had poured his heart into. It wasn’t just a kite; it was a symbol of unity, tradition, and dreams. When Amin flew his Wau Bulan, the village children would gather, their eyes wide with wonder as the kite soared gracefully against the azure sky.

One day, a fierce storm swept through the village, threatening to destroy everything in its path. The villagers worked together to protect their homes, and Amin’s kite-making skills proved invaluable as he helped repair the damaged rooftops. In the aftermath, the community’s spirit remained unbroken, stronger than ever.

Amin decided to organize a kite festival to lift the spirits of Kampung Seri Lestari. Villagers from near and far flocked to the event, bringing with them their own kites, stories, and laughter. As Amin’s Wau Bulan took to the skies once more, it wasn’t just a celebration of kites; it was a testament to the resilience and unity of the village.

As the sun set, the sky filled with a myriad of colourful kites, each one carrying the hopes and dreams of those below. Kampung Seri Lestari stood as a beacon of harmony, where tradition and community thrived together.

* The moral of the story is the importance of community and resilience. It highlights how unity, cooperation, and mutual support can help a community overcome challenges and celebrate its shared heritage. It underscores the value of preserving cultural traditions and the bonds that tie people together, emphasizing that together, people can achieve great things and foster a harmonious society.

Fishing Technique 

Fishing has a unique blend of science, tradition, and relaxation. Whether you're using modern techniques with high-tech gear or traditional methods like those practised in Malay culture, it's an activity that requires patience, knowledge, and skill. 

If you are a beginner and have never been fishing, the right person of choice you could seek is a Malay who knows fishing, and here is why: 

Traditional Malay fishing techniques are deeply rooted in the community's knowledge of the local environment and sustainable practices. 

Bubu: A fish trap made from bamboo or rattan, designed to catch fish in rivers and coastal waters.

Pancing Tonda

Pancing Tonda: This involves using a circular lure made of mother-of-pearl, which reflects light underwater to attract fish.

The Secret of Knots

Pancing Tonda has various methods and science of fishing where it takes skills and is deeply rooted in tradition. Only a skilled fishing person knows many tricks and mysteries of knots and parameter distance between each point has to be calculated following the depth of the seawater. 

Position and Skills 

There are several ways to target type of fish

Jala or Menjala

Jala or Menjala: Circular nets are thrown into shallow waters, spreading out mid-air before sinking to capture fish.

Sumpit

Sumpit: A blowgun used for fishing, often targeting specific fish in rivers and

streams.

Hidden Science 

Hidden science in Malay culture often lies in their traditional practices and knowledge systems, which have been passed down through generations. One notable example is traditional Malay medicine, which incorporates principles of pharmacology using indigenous flora and fauna. This holistic approach to healing combines Islamic and Hindu beliefs with practical knowledge of medicinal plants and herbs.

Another example is the traditional fishing techniques I mentioned earlier, which demonstrate a deep understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices. These methods are not just about catching fish but about maintaining a balance with nature.

These practices, though sometimes overlooked or misunderstood by modern science, hold valuable insights into sustainable living and natural remedies. It's fascinating how much wisdom is embedded in these traditional ways of life, this is the reason why I brought this into light. 

Indian - Malay Cultural Link 

The cultural link between Indians and Malays is a fascinating blend of history, tradition, and shared experiences. The Indian community in Malaysia, which includes Tamils, Malayalees, Telugus, and Punjabis, has significantly influenced Malaysian culture.

Historically, ancient Indian kingdoms had a profound impact on Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula. The adoption of Sanskrit, Hinduism, and Indian administrative methods by early Malay kingdoms is a testament to this influence.

In modern times, the Indian community in Malaysia has integrated its rich traditions, festivals, and cuisine into the Malaysian cultural mosaic. Festivals like Deepavali and Thaipusam are celebrated with great enthusiasm, and Indian cuisine, such as roti canai and nasi kandar, has become a staple in Malaysian food culture.

The Chitty community in Malacca is a unique example of cultural amalgamation, where Indian immigrants and local Malays have blended their customs and traditions.

This cultural exchange has created a vibrant and diverse society where both Indian and Malay traditions coexist and enrich each other. It's a beautiful example of how different cultures can come together to create something unique and harmonious. In ancient times, the Malay people used a variety of mathematical concepts, many of which were influenced by Indian and Islamic traditions.

• Numerical System: The Malay people adopted the Hindu-Arabic numeral system, which includes the concept of zero. This system greatly simplified calculations compared to earlier methods.
• Geometry: Influenced by Indian mathematics, the Malays used geometric principles in their architecture and design, including the construction of their traditional houses (rumah kampung) and mosques.
• Astronomy: Islamic astronomy also played a role in Malay mathematics, particularly in the calculation of time and the lunar calendar for religious purposes.
• Trade and Commerce: Basic arithmetic and algebra were essential for trade, helping merchants calculate profits, and losses, and manage their finances.

Conclusion 

The rich tapestry of Malay culture is an intricate blend of scientific knowledge, traditional wisdom, and cross-cultural influences. Ancient Malay practices, from sustainable architecture in rumah kampung to traditional fishing techniques, reveal a profound understanding of the environment and a commitment to harmonious living. There's much hidden science in these age-old practices that deserve deeper exploration, offering insights into sustainable and eco-friendly ways of life.

The cultural and scientific ties with India and China have further enriched Malay heritage. Indian influences, seen in the adoption of numerical systems and trade practices, and Chinese contributions, such as maritime technology and ceramics, have seamlessly blended with Malay traditions, creating a unique and vibrant cultural mosaic.

Together, these elements highlight the incredible depth and diversity of Malay science and culture, making it a field ripe for further study and appreciation. As we continue to uncover these hidden gems, we gain not only a better understanding of the past but also valuable lessons for the future.