Evidence shows Hang Tuah was real, say academicians

KUALA LUMPUR: Academicians in the fields of history and Malay literature have recognised the existence of Hang Tuah in Malay civilisation and that he was not just a myth.

The agreement was reached based on the discovery of evidence in the form of artifacts and written records through research done locally and abroad which were presented at a roundtable titled "The Position of Hang Tuah in Malay Civilisation History".

Chairman of the board of trustees of Yayasan Karyawan, Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, said the scientific discourse was held to resolve questions on the validity and existence of Laksamana Hang Tuah as there were doubts on the name "Tuah" which has become the symbol of Malay heroism since the 15th century.

"Hang Tuah existed and is the epitome of Malay heroism as etched in the minds of the Malays from generation to generation," he said after chairing the discussion.

Ahmad Sarji, who is also Perbadanan Nasional Berhad chairman, said a comprehensive study would continue to be conducted by national historians to reinforce the existence of the legendary Malay warrior.

The discussion was also attended by scholars of history and Malay literature, historians, academicians from tertiary institutions and representatives of non-governmental organisations. - Bernama