Hang Tuah

Hang Tuah

Hang Tuah was a warrior who lived in Malacca during the reign of Sultan Mansur Shah in the 15th century. He was supposedly the most powerful of all the laksamana, or admirals, and is considered by the Malays to be one of history's greatest silat masters. Hand Tuah is held in the highest regard,  even in present-day Malay culture, and is arguably the most well-known and illustrious warrior figure in Malay history and literature.

Early Life And Background

As a young boy, Hand Tuah worked as a woodcutter in his parent's shop. His grasp of spiritual concepts and potential as a fighter were apparent from a young age. At ten years old he learned silat together with his four comrades Hang Kasturi, Hang Jebat, Hang Lekir and hang Lekiu. Their teacher was Adi Putera, a renowned mater who lived a hermetic life at the top of a mountain. Under the guru's tutelage, Hang Tuah and his four compatriots were taught the arts of self-defense and meditation. 

Hang Tuah's appearance in the history of the region began when some men ran amok near Kampung Bendahara. Tun Perak came with a party of guards to investigate the incident, but was also attacked. His guards fled but when Hang Tuah and his friends, who Tun Perak was amazed by the courage of Hang Tuah and his companions. He rewarded them and presented them to Sultan Muzaffar Shah.