A.W. Hamilton and the translation of English nursery rhymes into Malay

ABSTRACT A.W. Hamilton (1887–1967) was a colonial police officer who demonstrated a keen interest in the Malay language. He was a regular contributor to various magazines and journals during the colonial period. His writings, which encompass various aspects of the Malay language, Malay sayings and love charms, flora, fauna, feasts, and festivals, reflect his diverse interest in his surroundings. Also known as Haji Hamilton, he was a translator as well. He is perhaps best known for his translations of English nursery rhymes into Malay, which were published six times over a period of 70 years. Upon his retirement from the police force, Hamilton settled down in Australia. He is often credited for having made among the earliest effort to introduce the Malay language in Australia, although it did not prove to be very successful. In spite of this, very little is publicly documented about Hamilton. This article aims to explore some aspects of Hamilton’s life and discuss his language indigenisation in his translation of nursery rhymes into Malay, with the aim of providing some insights into the life of a colonial officer who was unwavering in his interest in and devotion to the Malay language.