ABSTRACT

In primitive Malay communities, except for the religious teachers or those claiming religious eminence through Arab birth, there were practically only two classes, the nobles and the commoners. The close resemblance between the organization and that of feudal Europe is so obvious as to require no elaboration. The attachment to the land and to a rural, mainly agricultural life is a valuable characteristic, and the Government is alive to the importance of strengthening and developing Malay life on the lines. The good work of the Malay “penghulus” or headmen has been of the greatest value to the country from the days of their institution by Sir Hugh Low. In all Malay States the great chiefs or rajas continue to hold high positions, such as Raja Muda, Bendahara, and the like, which in the hands of able nobles afford many opportunities of definite rule and guidance in the extensive districts usually allotted to them.