Early History/ Contents

Early Islamic gravestones

Othman Yatim

Present-day Malay culture owes an inestimable debt to the part played by the region in the ancient East–West maritime trade. The impact of imported cultures was obviously profound, as many foreign elements left evidence that can be recognized and appreciated today as part of Malaysia's cultural heritage. Early Islamic gravestones, commonly known as Batu Aceh, are one example.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Mysterious graves
  • Indian and Acehnese origins
  • Early Kedah gravestones
  • Design and decoration
  • What the shapes mean

This tear-shaped panel on a royal grave at Teluk Bakong in the Perak River Valley bears a Qur'anic inscription.