Prayer Fuel

Malay in Malaysia

The Malay of Peninsular Malaysia makeup the majority of the Malay peoples in Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore. In Malaysia, people are classified as Malay by the federal constitution if they speak their national language, Bahasa Malaysia, practice Malay customs, and are followers of Islam. The Malay of Peninsular Malaysia find much pride in their cultural heritage and place great emphasis on family and community dependence. Titles, such as Pa’ Long (Eldest Uncle), are used as terms of endearment to acknowledge hierarchical position.

The Malay have early roots in Hinduism and traces of this can still be seen in certain aspects of their culture such as weddings. For instance, the bride and groom will paint their hands with henna and will sit upon a platform for hours for the guests to admire.

Another divergence from Islam is the use of a bomoh (witchdoctor). Although Islam forbids the use of such a person, many Malay of Peninsular Malaysia will seek the services of a bomoh when they are experiencing a difficult situation or when they need some “magic.” Also, they use bomohs for honorable or ignoble purposes. Furthermore, they consult bomohs in order to receive a blessing or a cure; or, on the other hand, in order to curse someone or get revenge.
What Are Their Needs?

While the Malay place great emphasis on family, it is ironic that one of their greatest needs lies in the breakdown of the family unit. Divorce and youth issues are challenges facing the Malay family. During turbulent times, pray that peace can reign among the Malay of Peninsular Malaysia and their families. Much opportunity exists for young entrepreneurial Malay students through Malaysian education, sports and business.

Ask Jesus how he is seeing the Malay people today.