Malay Deli in North Sumatra: History and Today’s Existence

Abstract This study aims to describe the history of the Deli Malay and its current existence as one of the major ethnic groups in Indonesia. During the Dutch colonial period, Deli was famous for its tobacco plantations, even the practice of real contract coolies existed in Deli. Deli Malay is inseparable from other Malay sub-Malays in Indonesia as well as in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam. Only the characteristics of the Malay Deli remain and have contributed a lot to the progress of the Indonesian state to date. Like the Deli Malay civilization also produced cultural icons, especially the Maimun Palace and the Al-Mashun Grand Mosque. These two historic buildings are evidence of the greatness and existence of the Deli Malay civilization in North Sumatra. In addition, the most obvious is the Malay language which is used as the national language of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, as well as several other Malay countries. Likewise, the system of royal government originating from Bustanussalatin, became a guide for Islamic Sultanates throughout the archipelago. Including traditional Malay clothing such as the cap, songkok or skullcap, became part of Indonesia’s national dress.