Assalamu Alaikum Brothers and Sisters,
Malays in Sri Lanka live side by side with other communities all over Sri Lanka. They have lived and living in hamlets, colonies, perhaps terminology “colony” is not in use widely present day world, cities and villages predominantly situated in the South of Sri Lanka for many generations. There is a large number of Malays live in Central part of the Country i.e Kandy, Badulla, Matale. There are considerable Malay folks live in Colombo as well, particularly in Slave Island. There was an instance in the history of Sri Lanka that a Malay King (adventurous a Malay warrior from South East Asian region) was to be throne as King of Sri Lanka (in the Kingdom of Dambadeniya/Yapahuwa). We know there are many arguments, stories and theories about immigration of Malays to Sri Lanka. Some have regarded as the oldest Sri Lankan Malays, mostly Malays who are living in deep down south town, Hambanthota. Some claims that they were brought along with the British Army/ mercenaries during there reign of power in Sri Lanka. Unlike our forefathers and our living older generation, young Malays by their ignorance or education level or else other reasons (perhaps no established body to promote culture, language) fast loosing their cultural identity as well as the dignity, pomp and glory, respect receive from power base of the country. Early Malays especially males were employing in the government service mainly in the Police, Navy, Army, Fire Brigade, Postal, Prisons Department, civil and other government services. Early day Malays were well respected and popular among other communities. They were also excelled in sports and brought decorations and honour to Sri Lanka. Malays were regarded as hard working, courageous, loyal, trustworthy and patriotic. Perhaps, Malays are genetically trustworthy, hardworking and patriotic in nature. Sadly, according to scholars and Malay older generation Sri Lankan Malays have become fast disappearing and self alienating ethnic group due to various reasons such as migration, mix marriages, education. Now a day Malays are hardly seen working in the government sector or military or engage in politics.
This minute of venture or expedition is to discover our heredity in Sri Lanka, document our history, achievement of forefathers and distinguish personalities, share views, debate, educate our culture; importantly language, music, dress, food habits, and the identity. Promote brotherhood among Sri Lankan Malay brethrens living all over the world, promote skills, and expose our ability, courage and intelligence. This journey is to seize opportunities and increase competiveness. Thus, build a stronger, distinguish and educated Sri Lankan Malay community to challenge the world and thrive upon as a distinct community.
Dear brothers and sisters please join and contribute articles on history of Sri Lanka Malays, achievements of distinguish Malays, events of your organizations, stories of your family and your generation to this blog site and build a stronger bond among Sri Lankan Malays.
Education, Culture and Courage is the strength of a community and the society……
Thank you and Salams
Editor
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