DISCOURSE ON MALAY ORIGIN, INSTITUTIONS, VALUES AND SYSTEMS

Abstract

Ethnic origins, values and systems, among other elements, frame the cultural identity of a society. The indigenous Malays represent the majority population of Malaysia. This article traces the Malay origin from socio-historical and anthropological lenses and outlines the institutions, values and systems of the Malay ethnic group. The study has chronologically investigated on the Malay origin in Malaysia and discursively examined, as a discourse, the factors that may have influenced the socio-cultural and value systems of the Malaysian Malays. Applying discourse analysis as a research technique and utilising library materials, texts and online resources to craft this interdisciplinary research, this study has found that the Malay origin, culture, values and systems are extensively influenced by external factors. Recognising Islam as the religion of the Malays with adab, akhlaq, Budi and Budi-Islam as components of the Malay ethical system, Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism and British colonialism have significantly influenced Malay culture, values and systems.Keywords: Malays, Malaysia, origin, culture, institutions, values