"Divergent Narratives, Shared Origins: Unraveling Melaka's History"

Melaka’s origins have been the subject of captivating historical accounts, blending European and Malay perspectives. While both narratives trace its lineage to a Palembang prince, they diverge in style and intent.

The Portuguese account, documented in the Suma Oriental by Tomé Pires, presents a more straightforward narrative. It revolves around Paramesvara, a prince from Palembang, Sumatra, who seeks refuge from Javanese dominance. He flees to Singapore with a group that includes thirty Orang Laut (sea people). Paramesvara, displaying signs of newfound status, takes on the title 'The Great Exempt'. In Singapore, he establishes himself as a leader after a confrontation with the local chief, establishing a settlement through rice farming, fishing, and even piracy to sustain their livelihood. However, after facing resistance from the Ayutthaya forces, they relocate first to Muar, south of Melaka, and then to Bertam, upstream from the eventual Melaka site.

The turning point comes when Iskandar Syah, Paramesvara's son, encounters a peculiar incident during a hunting trip. As he approaches Melaka Hill, a mousedeer, acting unusually aggressive towards his hunting dogs, captures his attention. Interpreting this behaviour as a sign, Iskandar Syah requests his father's permission to establish their residence at this site, which eventually becomes the heart of Melaka. The name 'Melaka' is said to derive from the term 'hidden fugitive,' symbolizing the founder's flight from Sumatra.

Contrastingly, the Sejarah Melayu, rooted in Malay tradition, spins a more elaborate and dramatic saga. It traces the lineage of Melaka kings back to Alexander the Great (Iskandar Zul-karnain), representing him as a revered Muslim ruler. The story begins with the arrival of Seri Teri Buana, one of Alexander's descendants, in Palembang. He eventually becomes ruler, forming a pact with his chief minister, Demang Lebar Daun, ensuring loyalty between Malay rulers and their subjects.

The narrative unfolds with Seri Teri Buana's journey, assisted by the Queen of Bintan, to establish Singapore after a sighting of what he believes to be a lion. His descendants rule Singapura for generations, resisting external forces, until a ruler's unjust actions bring calamity. The city faces an attack by swordfish, and subsequent events lead to its downfall, prompting Sultan Iskandar Syah to move to Muar and later to Bertam. Here, another peculiar encounter with a mousedeer marks the spot for the founding of Melaka.

These stories, while differing in detail and presentation, converge on crucial points: the Palembang connection, successive relocations, and the significance of a mousedeer guiding the establishment of Melaka. These narratives offer glimpses into the vibrant historical tapestry of Melaka, suggesting links to the ancient Srivijaya empire and depicting its rise amidst the ebb and flow of Malay history.