MELAKA: The planned exhibition showcasing artefacts of the legendary Malay warrior Hang Tuah receives a significant boost as an Indonesian man claiming to be an heir comes forward with a collection of relics from the Melaka Sultanate era.
Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh met with Muhammad Amin Tun Ahmad, who journeyed from Bintan Island, Riau, bringing with him three Keris purportedly inherited from Hang Tuah.
The handover occurred at a hotel in Ayer Keroh on Tuesday (May 21).
Amin, 49, asserted his lineage as a descendant of Hang Tuah, claiming that the relics were part of his family's collection handed down by his father.
"Several artefacts are housed in an Indonesian museum, but due to their weight, I chose to bring these three significant pieces to Melaka's history," he explained.
He added that Hang Tuah originated from Bintan Island and served the Melaka Sultanate in the 15th century. The artefacts were preserved in his palace, now a mini museum dedicated to Hang Tuah, where his tomb is also located.
Amin's aim in lending the artefacts is to support the state's efforts to honour the famed warrior. He noted that there are more relics linked to the sultanate that could be made available upon request.
Ab Rauf highlighted Hang Tuah's revered status, adding that even the Portuguese documented his prowess, with evidence found in Lisbon, Portugal.
"Hang Tuah was not only known for his strength but also his wisdom and has been acknowledged in records from India, which will be displayed during the event," he added.
The Chief Minister earlier mentioned that a team of researchers from Universiti Islam Melaka (Unimel), Universiti Malaya, and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), facilitated by the Tun Perak Institute, have been conducting international studies on Hang Tuah.
They have discovered various artefacts, including a keris in Okinawa, Japan, and Hang Tuah's letters, which will be returned for the exhibition.
Further, Ab Rauf referenced findings that portrayed Hang Tuah as a significant diplomat of the 15th century, who made his mark in countries like China, Japan, Turkey, and Rome.
