Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
2.0 CONTEXTUAL STUDIES
2.1 Introduction
This chapter discusses the general overview of the
history and heritage background of Selangor, Beranang and
Kampung Tanjung. It also discusses the overall architectural
styles in Malaysia. Furthermore, this chapter elaborates the
economic, social, cultural and religious aspects in Selangor,
Beranang and Kampung Tanjung. There are 14 states in
Malaysia and Selangor is one of the 14 states, located on the
West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
2.2 Introduction to Selangor
Selangor is located on the West Coast of Peninsular
Malaysia with two capital cities namely; Shah Alam, the
state capital city and Klang which is the royal capital city.
Covering an area of 796,084 hectares the state of Selangor
comprises of 9 districts which are: Gombak, HHulu Langat,
HHulu Selangor, Klang, Kuala Langat, Kuala Selangor,
Petaling, Sebak Bernam and Sepang. . (Sultan Alam Shah
Museum, 2016)
The state of selangor was one of the earliest
settlements in the Malay Peninsular after the state of Perak.
Klang, one of the districts in Selangor is formed since 1365
during the reign of Majapahit. The Selangor Sultanate was
established by Raja Lumu or also known as Sultan
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Salehuddin Shah from Bugis descendent. He was the prince
of Daeng Chelak, arrived at Selangor around 1730s. (Sultan
Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
Several other states had been established prior to the
establishment of Selangor, including Kedah, Terengganu,
Kelantan and Johor. These states had a long history of
political institutions, while Selangor was divided into
independent areas. Some areas were under the control of
Malacca and Johor. It was only after 1742 that Selangor
finally had its first ruler. The title of Sultan was first
functions in 1766. Selangor became an independent entity
and was no longer a vassal state of Johor. (Sultan Alam Shah
Museum, 2016)
The geographical features have brought the
establishment of Selangor later than other states. The region
has five (5) major rivers, wherein an independent political
entity rose to power, all of which were not able to dominate
one another and so existed concurrently. The arrival of Bugis
expanded the Tin mining industry, which was one of the
ways that they consolidated their control over Selangor, as
well as one of the factors that helped to unite it. (Sultan Alam
Shah Museum, 2016)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.2.1 History of Selangor
In reference to Break Ways Selangor 2013, the
origin of the name of 'Selangor' has various versions. One of
the few versions indicates that the actual name of Selangor
discovered in Klang in the year 1905 and 1944; including the
drum and bell from the Dong So'n culture. Aside from those,
no other discoveries were made until the 14th century.
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)

comes from a Malay word 'Selangau', which means flies.

This story began with a wandering warrior from Melaka who
rested under a tree after a tiring and long journey and fell
asleep. A bow fly flew around his head and rested on his nose
and due to agitation the warrior tried to kill the fly but ended
up hitting his nose to the point that it left a mark. Every time
the warrior touched his nose he was reminded of the incident
and this intrigued his curiosity about exploring the area. Figure 2-1: Dong Son Drum
(Source:http://www.jaist.ac.jp/~dnthao/index_files/Bronze_Drum.html)
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007) (Leong S.H., 1992)

According to Tourism Selangor 2012, another

version claims that the name of the state was derived from
the term 'selang' which means straits in the Malay vocabulary
and 'ur' which is a Tamil word which means town. Yet
another source claimed that the state obtained its name from
the name of a river. It was the river located at the first
original established government of Selangor. Figure 2-2: Dong Son Bell
( Source: http://www.brooklynrail.org/2010/03/artseen/arts-of-ancient-
viet-nam-from-river-plain-to-open-sea)
2.2.2 Arrival of the Bugis in Selangor

There are various evidences indicating people had Before the Portuguese took over Selangor in 1511,
settled on Selangors river banks about 2000 years ago. Selangor was ruled by the Sultanate of Malacca during the

(Khoo K. Y., 1992) Artifacts from the 19th century were 15th century. However, after the Portuguese rule in Selangor
the state became hotly disputed among the Portuguese,
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Johor, Aceh and Siam. In 1641, the Dutch took over Malacca
and brought the Bugis mercenaries from Sulawesi.
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
The first Bugis settlement in Selangor is believed to
establish in 1681. The Bugis who were superior warriors,
skilled in sailing and in politics, were able to dominate the
places where they settled. Eventually they were able to unite
Selangor politically, as the result of the unification of areas
that were independent and divided. (Kesultanan Selangor,
2007)
2.2.3 The Bugis Rise to Power
The Bugis who were deeply involved with the
political upheaval of the Johor government in the 18th
century had actually started their settlements at Jeram and
Langat from where they undertook trading with Melaka. The
Bugis settlers displaced the Minangkabau settlers from
Sumatera in many districts, who had established themselves
in Selangor nearly 100 years prior to the Bugis. These
settlements continued to develop and eventually were able to
appoint a son of the Bugis Ruler, Raja Lumu, to become their
Ruler. Raja Lumu subsequently became the first Sultan of
Selangor from 1766 to 1782. (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
(Paiman Keromo, 1992)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
The Bugis control over Selangor was further
strengthened with the defeat of Raja Kecil Siak by the
brotherhood of the five Bugis raja, returning the crown of
Johor-Riau Empire to Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alam Shah.
The highlight of the Bugis campaign in Selangor was
achieved on 1st December 1766 when Raja Lumu Ibni Opu
Daeng Chelak became the ruler of Selangor and changed his
name to Sultan Salehuddin. Throughout the 18th century,
Selangor and Riau had close ties based on the ethnic relations
that could be traced from blood relationships that had existed
between the two rulers families. (Kesultanan Selangor,
2007) (Khoo K. Y., 1992)
Raja Lumu, a prince of Daeng Chelak, has his hands
over Kuala Selangor district in 1742 while another Bugis
leader, Raja Tua, over Klang. According to Raja Lumu, the
establishment of Selangor as a sovereign Malay state in the
Peninsular was marked by the installation ceremony by
Sultan Mahmud of Perak. Raja Lumu was crowned as the
Sultan of Selangor has raised his ranking in socitey, as he
was considered to be the legal and sovereign ruler in
accordance to the laws and traditions of Malay rulers. As a
Sultan, he was able to consolidate his government by
implementing policies adapted from the Luwu, a Sulawesi
tradition, while maintaining the existing Malay traditions.
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007) (Khoo K. K., 1992)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Among the preserved traditions were the positions
of the nobles such as the positions of Dato Aru, Dato
Penggawa Tua, Dato Penggawa Muda, Dato Shahbandar,
Dato PenghHulu Hulu Selangor, Dato Kaya Kecil Klang
and Dato Maharajalela. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum)
2.2.4 Development and Establishment of Selangor
In the 19th century, the economy boomed due to the
exploitation of huge tin reserves. In 1854, the Sultan of
Selangor granted Raja Abdullah the head of Klang, passing
over Raja Mahdi, the son of the chief who previously ruled
Klang. This was the spark that ignited the Selangor Civil
War of 1867 to 1874, where numerous parties struggled to
gain control of the revenues from the tin mining. The mining
industry also drew in a considerably large number of foreign
laborers from China. Selangor chiefs and Chinese societies
formed alliances and fought for control over the mines.
These conflicts caused the increase in number of British
involvement in Malayas affairs. (Sultan Alam Shah
Museum, 2016)
In 1874, during the reign of Sultan Abdul Samad in
Selangor, the British governed the affairs of Selangor while
the Sultan remained as the ruler. Selangor was once again
prosperous under the control of the British. In 1896, largely
through the co-ordination of the Resident, Frank
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Swettenham, along with Negeri Sembilan, Perak and
Pahang, Selangor formed the Federated Malay States in
1896, with Kuala Lumpur as the capital. The Federated
Malay States evolved into the Federation of Malaya in 1948,
which became independent in 1957, and later became known
as Malaysia in 1963. The city of Kuala Lumpur functioned
as both the national capital of Malaysia and the state capital
of Selangor. In 1974, Selangor relinquished Kuala Lumpur
to the federal government. The state capital was thereafter
moved to Shah Alam. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
(Khoo K. Y., 1992)
In the past, the capital was determined depending on
the location of residence of the head of state or Yang
Dipertuan. The government then expanded to encompass all
of the main five rivers into its territory. These rivers served
as zoning guides with a Territorial Chief, or Orang Besar,
appointed for each zone. These zones were considered to be
districts that were loyal to the Sultan. Through this
unification, the state of Selangor was finally established.
However, the determinations of definite boundaries that are
in existence today were the outcome of British intervention.
These boundaries included Sungai Bernam in the north,
Sungai Sepang in the south, the Straits of Malacca to the west
and the Titiwangsa range to the east. The subsequent area
was approximately 5760 square kilometers. (Sultan Alam
Shah Museum, 2016) (Leong S.H., 1992)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Prior to the definite boundary establishment, areas
such as Langat, Jeram, Morib, Jugra and Klang were known
by those names, then, when the mining industry gained
popularity, so did the places associated with mining.
Kancing, Petaling, Pangkalan Lumpur (currently known as
Kuala Lumpur), Cheras, Serdang, Kajang, Ampang are some
of the places that were established or gained popularity
through the mining industry. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum,
2016) (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
In 1948, the Federated Malay States together with
the Unfederated Malay States of Kelantan, Kedah,
Terengganu and Johor; and the Straits Settlement (Penang,
Melaka and Singapore) to form the Federation of Malaya,
which gained its independence in 1957. It then morphed into
Malaysia in 1963 with the inclusion of North Borneo or
Sabah and Sarawak.
The city of Kuala Lumpur initially functioned as
both the national capital of Malaysia and the state capital of
Selangor. In 1974, Selangor relinquished Kuala Lumpur to
the federal government. The Sultan decreed that an archway
be built on the borders of the new Federal Territory and
Selangor; Kota Darul Ehsan that now towers majestically
over a section of the Federal Highway between Bangsar and
Petaling Jaya to commemorate Selangor's sacrifice. (Sultan
Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
The state capital was thereafter moved to Shah
Alam. Putrajaya, a new city designed to be the new
administrative capital of Malaysia, was built by the federal
government in Selangor. Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz
Shah Al Haj, the 8th Sultan of Selangor was asked again to
cede land to the federal government. Putrajaya became a
federal territory in 2001. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
(Leong S.H. ,1992)
2.2.5 The Arrival of Islam to Selangor
Traders from various places contributed to the
spreading of Islam with all the difficulties and calamities
around Nusantara. The Malay Archipelago and the
Indonesian Archipelago were also influenced by Islam. The
traders came to Nusantara and Malay Archipelago for
several reasons due to the strategic location of Malay
Archipelago, which located between China and India. In
addition to that, Nusantara was the only blissful land with
spices that were highly valuable to the Mediterranean and the
East Asia (Meuraxa, 1973).
The ancient Muslim traders from China, India, Arab,
Gujarat and Persia were well established in Malay
Archipelago. Their respective ports was also involved in
business trading with them. Meantime, those Muslim traders
speared Islamic teaching in the Malay Archipelago. (Sultan
Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
According to J.V.Mills (1974) and Leowenthal
(1960), the routes that the traders used on land and in the
ocean required them to pass through Nusantara. The land
roads were really tough and unsafe to travel on. This affected
their economy, their perception towards life and their way of
life.
All the traders, who came to the Malay Archipelago
used to stay for months in the ports area. They had to wait
for the right time (monsoon) before resuming their journey
to China or India (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016).
Whilst waiting for the right moment, the traders got
close to the locals. They preached to the locals about the
Islamic teachings. They also attracted the rulers through
these teachings. Many rulers converted and started
practicing Islam. Muslim settlements found in several places
in Nusantara prove that some of them even stayed and
married the locals and some were even buried there when
they died (Morley, 1949).
Other than that, Islam was spread through
colonization, from ruling states to protectorate states.
Selangor was ruled by Malacca sultanate, who embraced
Islam as the official religion of the state. Therefore, Selangor
also practiced and embraced Islamic practices. Islam came
to Selangor through Malacca Sultanate by the arrival of Tun
Perak in Klang, who was appointed as the headman of Klang
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
in 1445. Many locals were attracted by the Islamic art and
influenced to practice Islam. After the Bugis Malay
Sultanate came into Selangor through the coronation of Raja
Lumu, Islamic teachings strengthened all over Selangor.
(Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
During the reign of Sultan Abdul Samad (1875-
1898), Islam was further strengthened and Islamic law was
established. He introduced an institution to handle cases
regarding marriages, divorces, and offenses related to
Islamic law. (Abd Jalil Borham, (2015), Islam di Nusantara
(pp.8-18))
During the reign of Sultan Alauddin Sulaiman Shah,
the teachings of Islam were widely taught thorugh the
educational systems. The efforts were further pursued by the
next reign Sultans of Selangor. (Abd Jalil Borham, (2015),
Islam di Nusantara (pp.8-18))
2.2.6 The Colonization Emergence in Selangor
The British involvement in Malaya commenced
when Francis Light and the East Indian Company took over
Penang from the Sultan of Kedah on the 11th of August
1786. On the 6th of February 1899, Stamford Raffles
occupied Singapore. Meanwhile, through the Dutch-English
Treaty, the English gained control over Malacca, in
exchange of BangkahHulu which was occupied by the
Dutch. The Malay Archipelago was divided due to two (2)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
influences, namely, The English in the North of Malacca
Street including Singapore, Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei, and
Dutch at the South that covered the present Indonesian
Islands.
After successfully gaining control of the three (3)
provinces in Malaya in 1826, the British set up a central
administrative system for the Straits Settlement by
combining Penang, Singapore and Malacca. In which all the
three (3) provinces were placed under the administration of
a governor who was stationed in Penang. Each state was led
by a residence councilor. The first Straits Settlement
governor was Robert Fullerton. The Straits Settlement was
later taken over by the London Colonial Land Office on the
1st April 1867. (Mohd. Noor Mat Yazid, 2014)
The political, economic and social developments of
these strait settlements were dependent on the Malay states.
They were specifically dependent on the investment in tin
mining areas. Nevertheless, there was a turmoil that resulted
from conflicts between Chinese tribes to gain control over
the tin mines. This was further worsened by various power
struggles between the Malay Royal princes especially in
Perak. Beside Perak, power struggles between the royalty
and conflicts between tribes were also rampant in Negeri
Sembilan, Selangor and Pahang. (Lopez, C. C., 2001)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
On the 21st April 1874, the British signed a treaty
with Dato Kelana Syed Abdul Rahman Ujung and placed a
British Captain in Negeri Sembilan as a vice-president. In
1883, the British gained control over Rembau followed by
Sri Menanti and later on gained control over whole of Negeri
Sembilan in 1895. The first British resident in Negeri
Sembilan was Martin Lester. In the meantime, Sultan Abdul
Samad was forced into accepting a British resident, J.G.
Davidson in December 1884 and Frank Swettenham as the
vice-president in Kuala Langat, while in Pahang, Sultan
Ahmad had to consent to J.P. Roger as the British Resident
in 1888. Towards the end of 1894, the resident system
strengthens in the Malay states. On the 1st of July 1895, the
British established a centralized administrative center by
merging all these states under one federation known as the
Federation of the Malay states through the 1896 Federation
Treaty. (Mohd. Noor Mat Yazid, 2014)
The excellent administrative authority laid hands on
the resident general who was based in Kuala Lumpur. The
first resident general was Frank Swettenham who was
directly accountable to the high commissioner, Charles
Mitchell, who was also the strait settlement governor in
Singapore. (Lopez, C. C., 2001) The members of the
Federated Malay States council comprised of the Sultan and
the residents of four respected Malay states. However, in
1909, the councils memberships were expanded by the
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
addition of 4 known former members consisting of three
Europeans and one Chinese. This situation increasingly
weakened the Sultans sovereignty, since their status was
comparable to that of a normal council member. The
Britishs indifference in other states began in 1909 when
over four umbrella states, Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan and
Terengganu, were handed over to the British upon the seal
of the Bangkok Treaty 1909. . (Mohd. Noor Mat Yazid,
2014)
In the same year, J.S. Manson and W.L. Conley were
appointed as British advisors in Kelantan and Terengganu
respectively followed by W. Pell in Kedah in 1923 and L.A.
Allen in Perlis in 1930. Meanwhile, Johor signed an
agreement with British in 1914 with the appointment of
Douglas Campbell as its British Advisor. In December 1942,
the British capitulated to the Japanese in the Second World
War. The British returned to power quickly in Malaya in
August 1945 under the guards of setting up the Malayan
Union. The plan was endorsed by the British Parliament on
the 10th October 1945 and was officially set up in 1946.
(Lopez, C. C., 2001)
The administrative structure of the Malayan Union
terminated the Sultans absolute sovereignty with the
exception of matters relating to religion. Nevertheless, the
Malay Union received disapproval from the Malay Sultans
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
and their subjects, especially the United Malay National
Organization (UMNO). Under the pressure of the Malays,
and their formal official in Malaya, the British amended the
constitution to restore the position of the Sultans, as well as
the status of the Malays as the rightful heritors or the
Bumiputera. Hence, the Federation of Malaya was formed
in the year 1948. (Lopez, C. C., 2001)
2.2.7 History of Selangors Sultanate
(i) The Involvement of Opu Daeng Chelak @ Daeng
Pali (Yamtuan Muda Riau II, 1728-1745)
Opu Daeng Chelek (Daeng Pali) was the prince of
Opu Tenriborong Daeng Rilagak originated from the
government of Luwu, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. He came
to Malaysia in search of good fortune along the Straits of
Malacca. Along with his four siblings, he involved in the
political arena of a series of Malay states being appointed as
pangeran mangkubumi or yamtuan muda due to the
fact that the ruler at the state already existed. His siblings
were Opu Daeng Menambun (of Mempawah), Opu Daeng
Perani (died in Kedah), Opu Daeng Kemasi (Pangeran
Mangkubumi at Sambas) and Opu Daeng Merewah. Despit
being only the Yamutan Muda they had immense power and
authority. (Mohd. Yusoff Hashim, 1992)
After his older brother Opu Daeng Merewah, the
Yamtuan Muda Riau was passed away (1719-1728), Opu
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Daeng Chelak was appointed as the Yamutan Muda Riau II appointed to be the Yamtuan Muda Riau III from 1748-1777.
in 1728. He was appointed based on his good deeds and (Mohd. Yusoff Hashim, 1992)
successfully defeating Raja Kecil from Siak. Opu Daeng
(ii) Sultan Salehuddin ibni Opu Daeng Chelak (1766-
Chelak had immense power and not only controlled Riau but
1782)
also had great control in Selangor. He married the princess
Sultan Salehuddin, the son of Opu Daeng Shelak,
of Sultan Abdul Jalil Riayat Shah and was blessed with six
became the first Sultan of Selangor from 1766-1782. His
princess and princesses. Among them was Raja Haji
father Opu Daeng Chelak had a high status and power over
(Tengku Kelana Jaya), also known as Marhum Teluk
Riau as well as Selangor. Sultan Salehuddin had five
Ketapang, Raja Lumu (Sultan Salehuddin) who became the
siblings. His involvemnt with Selangor came into
first Sultan of Selangor from 1766 to 1782. The others were
perspective when he accompanied his father in assisting Raja
Tengku Puteh (wife of Sultan Abdul Jalil ibni Sultan
Muda Bisnu to seize the throne from Sultan Muzaffar Shah
Sulaiman Badrul Alam Shah), Tengku Hitam (wife of Syed
and become the Sultan of Perak in 1742. . (Mohd. Yusoff
Hussen Sheikh Bangsa bin yahya), Raja Halimah (wife of
Hashim, 1992)
Raja Jambi) and Raja Aminah (wife of Arung Lingga).
(Mohd. Yusoff Hashim, 1992) After his father's death, Raja Lumu was appointed as
the ruler of Selangor in 1743. At that time, however, Johor
His involvement in the history of the Sultanate of
declared that Selangor was under their patronage and in
Selangor began in 1742 when His Highness together with his
order to guarantee Selangors freedom Raja Lumu seeked
second son Raja Lumu assisted Raja Bisnu of Perak in a
help and recognition from Perak. It was not until 1766 that
dispute for the throne with Sultan Muzaffar Shah. Despite
Sultan Mahmud (Raja Kimas) had given his recognition to
easily being able to retain authority in Perak Sultan Muzaffar
Raja Lumu and awarded him the title of 'Sultan Salehuddin'.
Shah was defeated and Raa Muda Bisnu with the help of Opu
Sultan Salehuddin married the princess of Raja Bendahara
Daeng Chelak became the Sultan of Perak with the title of
Perak, who was a relative of Sultan Mahmud, the ruler of
Sultan Muhamad Shah. Opu Daeng Chelak was also kmown
Perak in the same year. The marriage acted as a symbol of
as 'Marhum Mangkat di Kota' and he passed away in 1745
acceptance of the Bugis family by the Malay rulers and also
and was buried next to his wife at Hulu Riau. After his death,
as a political recognition. This strengthened the bond
the Prince of Opu Daeng Perani, Opu Daeng Kemboji was
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
between the Bugis and the Malay families. A source claims
that Raja Lumu had a total of five children, three princes and
two princesses, among of them were Raja Nala, Raja Ibrahim
and Raja Ahmed.
After being appointed as the Sultan, Raja Lumu tried
to strengthen his position as the valid ruler (Yang Dipertuan
Sultan) in Selangor, and no longer be under the Johor-Riau
governments authority. His highness ruled for sixteen years
in which he adopted an aggressive foreign policy especially
toward the Dutch. According to history, the trade with the
British was initiated after the Dutch had an oppressive policy
in Selangor. His son, Sultan Ibrahim took the throne after the
death of his father in 1782. He was buried at Bukit Malawati,
Kuala Selangor and given the title 'Marhum Saleh'. (Selangor
Portal)
(iii) Sultan Ibrahim ibni Sultan Salehuddin (1782-1826)
After Sultan Salehuddin's death his oldest son Raja
Ibrahim ascended to the throne and was appointed as the
second Sultan of Selangor in 1782. He ruled from 1782-
1826. He joined forces with his uncle, Raja Haji from Riau
in order to attack Malacca. He almost succeeded but failed
due to a Dutch fleet. East Indies warships arrived as
assistance to the port city. After Raja Haji was vanquished
and killed in an attack at Teluk Ketapang, the Bugis fled and
Sultan Ibrahim and his warriors retreat to Selangor. After
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Riau was conquered by the Dutch, their attention diverted to
Kuala Selangor and they arrived there in July 1784. In early
August, the Dutch soldiers, with the assistance of the Malays
from Siak, landed at Kuala Selangor. Sultan Ibrahim
however succeeded in withdrawing to Pahang along with
300 followers. (Mat Saari, personal communication, June 7,
2016)
After his withdrawal, Sultan Ibrahim returned to
Selangor in 1785 with his soldiers and recaptured their forts
during a surprise night attack. The Dutch soldiers were
forced to withdraw to Malacca, but another naval force was
dispatched to recapture the forts of Kuala Selangor. Sultan
Ibrahim used a different approach and obstructed the
waterways of Sungai Selangor by dumping huge boulders
into the estuary of the river. Kuala Selangor was under the
Dutchs rule for a couple of month but Sultan Ibrahim then
signed a peace settlement with the Dutch, compelling him to
recognize the authority of the Dutch at that place. The Dutch
on the other hand were willing to accept Sultan Ibrahim as
the ruler of Selangor. (Mat Saari, personal communication,
June 7, 2016)
Due to misunderstandings between the sultan of
Selangor and the sultan of Perak regarding the state
boundaries, the British Company from Pulau Pinang
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intervened in August of 1825. They set up an agreement Tengku Busu played a major role in the management of
establishing the boundary between the two states. It was mining there until he was assassinated by the Chinese in
decided that Sungai Bernam would be the boundary between 1834. Sultan Muhammed directed Raja Sulaiman and
Selangor and Perak. The same agreement was signed by Tengku Omar to have the Chinese working in the mines at
Perak later. Sultan Ibrahims rule came to an end with his Lukut. (Mat Saari, personal communication, June 7, 2016)
demise on 27th October 1826 and was buried in Bukit
After Lukut reached its peak in the early 1850's,
Malawati. (Mohd. Yusoff Hashim, 1992)
Sultan Muhammad embarked on becoming an entrepreneur.
(iv) Sultan Muhammad Ibni Sultan Ibrahim (1826-1857) With the help of the merchants of Malacca, Sultan
Muhammad wanted to open a tin mine but failed and was left
Raja Mahmud was titled Sultan Muhammed after his
in debts. Raja Jummat bin Raja Jaafar came to his aid as a
father Sultan Ibrahim in 1826. (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
sign of gratitude for Sultan Muhammads role in helping him
Throughout his reign, he never appointed his son to hold
become the guarantor. His highness appointed Raja Jumaat
the position of crown prince. However, the British stated that
to be the chief and his son to be his son-in-law. (Mat Saari,
his Highnesss appointment of Sultans of the state of
personal communication, June 7, 2016)
Selangor was undertaken by state dignitaries. (Mohd. Amin
Hassan, 1992) There was a decline in Lukut after Raja Jumaats
death while Klang came to be another nucleus in tin mining.
The development that occurred to the government
Raja Jumaats relatives, Raja Abdullah bin Raja Jaafar was
happened during Raja Muhammeds reign despite being
responsible for the development of the place after being
considered weak in relation to his father. Through his reign,
handed over to him in 1849. This was also a sign of granitite
Raja Muhammed was able to develop tin mining which
by Sultan Muhammed for settling his debts. Raja Abdullah
changed the State of Selangor and its dependencies. The
was also made his son-in-law. In the light of the above
dependency in terms of economy of the State converted from
matter, the princes of Raja Mahadi were not satisfied by the
being dependent on trade to being dependent on land. For
situation and civil war broke out in klang. In 1857 Sultan
example, in the 1830's tin was produced in Klang, Lukut and
Muhammed died and was buried at Bukit Malawati, Kuala
Langat in abundance; approximately 3,600 piculs per
Selangor. (Mohd. Yusoff Hashim, 1992)
annum. The mines at Lukut were the most productive and
21
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
(v) Sultan Sir Abdul Samad ibni Raja Abdullah (1875-
1898)
Figure 2-3: Sultan Abdul Samad, the fourth Sultan of Selangor. (1857-
1898 A.D.) (Source: melayuonline.com)
Raja Abdul Samad, the son-in-law of Almarhum
Sultan Muhammed was appointed the Sultan of Selangor in
1857. As soon as he became the Sultan, Raja Abdul Samad
had appointed his eldest son, Raja Musa as his envoy in the
District of Lembah in Kuala Selangor. However, Raja
Abdullah bin Raja Jaafar from Lukut was still in charge of
the administration of the District in Klang. (Mohd. Amin
Hassan, 1992)
A civil war broke out between Raja Mahadi, the
grandson of Almarhum Sultan Muhammad, and Raja Abdul
Samad in 1867. It was because Raja Mahadi claimed
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
authority in Lembah Sungai Klang. Despite Sultan Abduls
Samad's attempt in settling the conflict without an
unnecessary war, he did not succeed. In 1874, Sultan Abdul
Samad requested the Governor of the Straits Settlements in
Singapore to restore the administration of the State of
Selangor. J.G.Davidson and Frank Swettenham were sent by
the government to reside in Klang and live close to the
Sultan. (Mat Saari, personal communication, June 7, 2016)
A few developments that occurred during his reign
were the establishments of highways and townships around
Kuala Lumpur. A railway line was constructed linking Kuala
Lumpur to Klang in 1886. In 1884, after Raja Musa's death
(the eldest prince of Sultan Abdul Samad), his prince Raja
Sulaiman in turn was appointed the Crown Prince of
Selangor. (Mohd. Amin Hassan, 1992) (Mat Saari, personal
communication, June 7, 2016)
In 1896, the Federated Malay States was formed
with the joining of Sultan Sir Abdul Samad, the Sultan of
Perak, the Sultan of Pahang and the Yang Dipertuan Besar
of Negeri Sembilan. These four states formed the Federated
Malay States. The first Conference of Malay Rulers was
conducted in 1897 at Kuala Kangsar, in which Sultan Abdul
Samad participated. Sultan Abdul Samad died at 93 years old
at his palace in Jugra in 1898. (Mat Saari, personal
communication, June 7, 2016)
22
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
(vi) Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah (1898-1938)
Figure 2-4 Sultan Alauddin Sulaiman Shah, the fifth Sultan of Selangor
(1898-1938 A.D.) (Source: melayuonline.com)
On the 11th of September 1863, Tengku Sulaiman
was born and he was under the guidance of his grandfather
and father Raja Muda Musa. After sudden death of Raja
Muda Musa, Tengku Sulaiman succeeded the throne. In
1898, Tengku Sulaiman had been declared as 5th Sultan of
Selangor, after his grandfather passed away. Thereafter, he
took the name Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah. . (Mohd.
Amin Hassan, 1992) (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah was knighted with
the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG) by the
United Kingdom and granted the title Sir. He appointed his
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
oldest son, Tengku Musa Eddin as Raja Muda of Selangor in
1920. According to some accusation, he had been dismissed
by the British resident Theodore Samuel Adams, because of
his immoral behavior. This accusation however, did not
stand with many Malays in Selangor who believed that the
real reason for the Raja Mudas demotion was his refusal to
follow Adams orders although there is no information as to
what the order were. (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)
The title of Raja Muda was instead given to Tengku
Alam Shah over his older brother, Tengku Badar Shah.
Sultan Alaeddin had pleaded for the case of Tengku Musa
Eddin, he even went to discuss the issue in London but all of
this effort was futile. March 31st, 1938 marks the passing of
Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman Shah as was stated in Malaysia
Fact Book (2012). (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007
During the time of Sultan Alaeddins reign, he was
described as a religious person. He undertook further
responsibility and enhanced the knowledge of Islam. He also
increased the number of scholars in his kingdom. He
followed Prophet Muhammads teachings. His personality
reflected the combination of the effort of cooperation,
integration and compatibility between the government and
scholars. A masjid in Kuala Langat named Masjid Alaeddin
is a standing testament to Sultan Sulaimans credibility as a
religious leader. The masjid was constructed according to his
23
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

conception; the Sultan also regularly gave sermons for (viii) Sultan Musa Ghitauddin Riayat Shah, the
Friday prayers at the masjid. (Kesultanan Selangor, 2007) seventh Sultan of Selangor (1943-1945)

(vii) Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah (1938-1942

and 1945-1960)

Figure 2-6 Sultan Musa Ghitauddin Riayat Shah, the seventh Sultan of
Selangor (1943-1945 A.D.) (Source: melayuonline.com)

Figure 2-5 Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah, the sixth Sultan of Selangor
(1938-1942 A.D.and 1945-1960 A.D.) (Source: melayuonline.com)
The Japanese commissioned Tengku Musauddin as
the seventh Sultan of Selangor with a title Sultan Musa
On April 4th, the son of Sultan Alaeddin Sulaiman
Ghitauddin Riayat Shah. He ruled from 1943AD to 1945
Shah was appointed as the sixth Sultan of Selangor
A.D. He was the elder brother of Sultan Hisamuddin Alam
Sultanate, with the title of Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah.
Shah. Due to their kinship, the Japanese forced Sultan
He ruled from 1938 to 1942 A.D. (Kesultanan Selangor,
Hisamuddin Alam Shah to assist his elder brother, especially
2007). However, his reign over the Sultanate did not last very
in the governmental management. (Mohd. Amin Hassan,
long. Just four years after being inaugurated as the Sultan,
1992)
the Japanese colonials gained the control over the Sultanate
since almost all Malay kingdoms in the Malayan Peninsular
had been conquered. (Mohd. Amin Hassan, 1992)
24
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

In 1945 A.D., the Japanese could no longer (ix) Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (1960-2001)
intervene in the Selangor Sultanate since the arrival of the
British. With their powerful authority over many kingdoms
in the Malayan Peninsular, The British began interference in
the Sultanates internal affairs. They reappointed Sultan
Hisamuddin Alam Shah as the Sultan of Selangor.
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)

Finally, Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah was

inaugurated as Timbalan Yang Dipertuan Agung Negara
Persekutuan Tanah Melayu, Deputy of Sultan Federated
Malay States, while the position for the first Yang Dipertuan Figure 2-7 Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, the ninth Sultan of
Agung went to Yang Dipertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan, Selangor (1960-2001 A.D) (Source: melayuonline.com)

Tuanku Abdul Rahman ibni Almarhum Tuanku Muhammad.

Furthermore, when Tuanku Abdul Rahman passed away,
The throne went to the oldest son of Sultan
Sultan Hisamuddin Alam Shah acquired the position of the
Hisamuddin named Raja Abdul Aziz, making him the ninth
second Yang Dipertuan Agung before he passed away five
Sultan of Selangor with a title Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz
months later on the 1st September 1960 A.D. (Kesultanan
Shah (1960-2001 A.D.). Though Selangor often suffered
Selangor, 2007)
from advance progress from almost all sectors, the British
interference could still be found during the ruling period of
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz. The British interfered in the
establishment of external and internal political affairs.
(Mohd. Amin Hassan, 1992)

In 1986 A.D., Resident Frank Swettenhem

attempted to unite Selangor with Negeri Sembilan, Pahang
and Perak into the Federated Malay States centered in
25
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Selangor. The development began in 1948 A.D., when the (x) Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, the tenth Sultan of
Federated Malay States was altered to the Federation of Selangor (2001 - Present.)
Malaya, before it was changed once more to Persekutuan
Malaysia in 1963 A.D. (Mohd. Amin Hassan, 1992)
Consequently, in 1974 A.D. the capital of Malaysia was
moved to Kuala Lumpur, and was no longer in Selangor.
(Kesultanan Selangor, 2007)

Figure 2-8 Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, the tenth Sultan of Selangor
(2001 A.D-present.)(Source: melayuonline.com)

On November 22nd, 2001, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul

Aziz Shah passed away and was succeeded by his son,
Tengku Idris Shah as the tenth Sultan of Selangor. He
assumed thereof titled Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah (2001-

Figure 2-9 The Official Palace of Sultan Selangor in Klang. present) (Selangor Portal)
(Source: www.2malaysia.com/selangor)

26
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Sultans of Selangor Reign

Sultan Salahuddin Shah (Raja Lumu) 17451778

Sultan Ibrahim Shah (Raja Ibrahim) 17781826

Sultan Muhammad Shah (Raja

18261857
Muhammad)

Sultan Sir Abdul Samad (Raja Abdul

18571896
Samad)

Sultan Sir Alaeddin Sulaiman

18961937
Shah (Raja Sulaiman)

Sultan Sir Hishamuddin Alam Shah 19371942

Figure 2-10 Headgear of the Sultan of Selangor
Al-Haj (Tengku Alam Shah) 19451960

19421945
Sultan Musa GhitauddinRiayat (During
Shah (Tengku Musaeddin) Japanese
occupation)

Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah

19602001
Al-Haj (Tengku Abdul Aziz Shah)

Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al- 2001

Haj (Tengku Idris Shah) present
Table 2-11 List of Selangor Sultane in Chronological Order

27
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.3 Geography Selangor is divided into 9 administrative districts;

In determining the development of history and

politics Selangor geographic structure plays an important
role. The mountains become the backbone of the Peninsular
Malaysia, which has formed an important watershed.
Malaysia has heavy rain which from river. These rivers cross
equatorial rainforest. Rivers flow across the mountain range
forming natural access roads and early residential areas.
(Sultan Alam Shah Museum,2016)

Selangor is located on the west coast of peninsular

Malaysia and covering 8,000 square kilometers wide with
hilly terrains and flat plains. Selangor is bordered on the
north by Perak, on the East by Pahang and Negeri Sembilan,
and on the West by the Straits of Malacca.

The geographical position and rich natural resources

made the Selangor affluent state. The area of Selangor is Figure 2-12 Map of Selangor (Source: http://www.keyword-
suggestions.com/c2VsYW5nb3IgbWFw/)
796084 hectares, equivalent to 7956 square kilometers.
Selangor has 9 districts: Gombak, Hulu Langat, Hulu
Selangor, Klang, Kuala Langat, Kuala Selangor, Petaling,
Sabak Bernam and Sepang. (Sultan Alam Shah
Museum,2016)

28
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Gombak Hulu Selangor District at the north and

1
the Federal Territory and HHulu Petaling Petaling district is located in the Klang
7
Langat District at the south of Valley and includes 4 mukim which

Gombak district. are Sungai Buloh, Damansara,

Hulu Langat could have been a part of Petaling and Bukit Raja. Petaling
2 Hulu Langat
contains the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah
Negeri Sembilan. But the time of
Airport (Subang Airport)
handing over the Lukut District to
Negeri Sembilan according to the 8 Sabak Bernam Sabak Bernam was officially declared
accord. This way for Hulu Langat by Highness Sultan Salahuddin Abdul
became a part of Selangor. Aziz Shah Alhaj Ibni Almarhum
st Sultan Alam Shah Alhaj Hisamuddin
1 September 1930, Hulu Selangor
3 Hulu Selangor
was the new administration (1960-2001) on 1 July 1960
center,which remains until today.
Sepang contains the Kuala Lumpur
9 Sepang
This district is bordering with Sepang
International Airport. Sepang is the
and Gombak District.
newest district. It is located in the
Kalang District was the royal town of southern part of the state bordering
4 Klang
Selangor and the capital of the state in the Hulu Langat District Kuala Langat
1874. Kuala selangor at the north, District, and Petaling District.
kuala langat at the south and petaling
Table 2-2 Administrative Districts of Selangor
at the east border of klang.
Kuala Langat Kuala Langat is at the border of Klang
5
and Sepang District.
Kuala Selangor has 9 mukim which
6 Kuala
are Api-Api, Batang Berjuntai, Ijok,
Selangor
Jeram, Kuala Selangor, Pasangan,
Tanjung Karang, Ujong Permatang
and Hulu Tinggi.

29
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

List of Local Authorities in Selangor Nature Sites in Selangor

There are 12 local authorities in Selangor, namely: 1) 1- Ampang Recreational 15- Klang Gates Quartz

1 Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya (MBPJ) Forest Ridge

2 Majlis Daerah HHulu Selangor (MDHS) 2- Ampang River 16- Klang Island

3 Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA) 3- Ayer Hitam Forest 17- Kota Damansara
Reserve Community Forest Park
4 Majlis Daerah Kuala Langat (MDKL)
4- Bagan Lalang 18- Klang River
5 Majlis Daerah Kuala Selangor (MDKS)
5- Batu caves 19- Selangor River
6 Majlis Daerah Sabak Bernam (MDSB)
6- Carey Island 20- Langat River
7 Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya (MPAJ)
7- Chiling Waterfalls 21- Mount Nuang
8 Majlis Perbandaran Kajang (MPKJ)
8- Crab Island 22- Nature Sites in
9 Majlis Perbandaran Klang (MPK)
Selangor
10 Majlis Perbandaran Selayang (MPS)
9- Damansara River 23- Penchala River
11 Majlis Perbandaran Sepang (MPSepang)
10- Forest Research 24- Kuala Selangor Nature
12 Majlis Perbandaran Subang Jaya (MPSJ) Institute Malaysia Park
Table 2-3 List of Local Authorities in Selangor 11- Gabai River 25- Strait of Malacca

12- Gombak River 26- Templer's Park

13- Kampung Kuantan 27- Selangor State Park

14-Kanching Falls

Table 2-4 Nature Sites in Selangor

30
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

1- Bukit Lanjan 6- Kanching Falls Statistics of Population in Selangor

2- Bukit Tabur 7- Chiling Waterfalls Selangor has the largest population in Malaysia at 5,411,324
as of 2010, which increase to 5,874,100 in 2015. (Sultan
3- Gabai River 8- Klang Valley
Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
4- Gunung Tok Wan 9- Morib

5- Batu Caves 10- Mount Nuang Year Number of population

Malay Chinese Indian

Table 2-5 Famous tourist destinations in Selangor
1891 26.58 50.85 3.59
1- Carey Island
1901 40.39 108.77 16.75
2- Crab Island

3- Indah Island 1911 64.95 150.91 74.08

4- Klang Island 1921 91.78 170.69 132.55

1931 122.87 241.35 155.93

Table 2-6 Islands of Selangor

Table 2-8 Selangor Population by Ethnic Groups 1911-1931

1- Klang River 6- Gombak River

2- Ampang River 7- Kemensah River

3- Bernam River 8- Langat River

4- Damansara River 9- Penchala River

5- Gabai River 10- Selangor River

Table 2-7 Rivers of Selangor

31
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.3.1 Climate Due to Malaysias close proximity to the equator, it

Malaysia has three different types of climates: does not have many seasons.
Classification Coun Kppen Examples The temperature in Selangor is uniform throughout
t -Geiger the year with high humidity levels, plenty of rainfall and
Tropical 1987 Af Kuala abundant sunshine. The climate of Selangor is warm. The
rainforest Lumpur, Petaling days are very sunny and the nights are cooler all year around
climate Jaya, Kota and it rain occasionally in the evening. It is also generally
Kinabalu, Sandak cloudy, and rarely experiences a clear sky. On the other
an, Malacca City hand, it is also exceedingly rare to have days with no
sunshine at all. This climate is considered to be Af. in
Tropical 219 Am Kampong
accordance to the Kppen-Geiger climate classification.
monsoon Belukar
climate Luas, Kampong The temperature generally ranges from 27C to 35C
Datok, Kampung during the day. It rarely, drops below 20C at night, but is
Bendang Tok usually around 25C. Monthly humidity can range from 70%
Teri, Naka, Padan to 90%. The annual rainfall is about 2,670 mm. Although
g Besar rain falls throughout the year, December to February are said
to be the wettest months. The primary maximum rainfall
Oceanic climate 5 Cfb Mesilau, Genting
occurs during October-November and the secondary
Highlands, Kamp
maximum during April-May. The primary minimum occurs
ung
during June-July with the secondary minimum
Raja, Brinchang,
around February.
Tanah Rata
Wind-flow in Malaysia is generally light and
Table 2-9 Different Types of Climates in Malaysia variable; however, there are some recognizable variations in

(Source: http://www.myweather2.com) the wind-flow patterns throughout the year. These can be
generalized into four periods: The South-West Monsoon, the
32
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
North-East Monsoon and the two shorter Inter-Monsoon
periods.
Figure 2-12 Average Annual Precipitation
(Source: http://www.myweather2.com)
Figure 2-13 Average Annual Temperature
(Source: http://www.myweather2.com)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Figure 2-14 Average Annual Temperature and Precipitation
(Source: http://www.myweather2.com)
2.4 Economical Background
From 1874 to 1957, the economy of Selangor grew
rapidly. The tin mining sector and commercial crops such as
rubber and oil palm were the main source of income for the
economy. The contribution effected the development of
construction such as the opening of new towns, construction
of railway lines and roads, health centers and the opening of
financial institutions. During this time, the British
administration was deemed to have brought about
development by having a positive impact on Selangor in
general. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
As the British spread their power, the commercial
economic system was introduced by Malays. This resulted in
the arrival of foreign investors in the state who brought their
technology and economic management system. The new
constructed roads were linked with new areas and new
33
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
towns. The improved facilities were enjoyed by the parties
directly involved in tin mining and commercial industries.
The economic growth of Selangor during the era of British
administration created an exclusion of the Malays from
mainstream economic development while opportunities
were open to investors. (McGullick, Badan Warisan
Malaysia, 2016)
Presently, Selangor is the richest and most
developed state in the country in terms of gross domestic
product (GDP) per capita (PPP). In 2008, the GDP per capita
was at USD 33,147. The economy of Selangor has four (4)
main identifiable sources of growth which are agriculture,
manufacturing, construction and services. Due to its many
natural resources such as rubber, palm oil, tin mining and a
high population, it is a very appealing choice for many
investors. In addition to that, the development of port Klang
rapidly expanding industrial areas increasingly contributes
towards the prosperity of state. Tourism sector have also had
an impact on the economy in Selangor due to the domestic
attraction and Natural Park. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Figure 2-15 Selangor GDP per capita (2000=100) from 1960 -2010
(Source: Selangor State Economy Planning Unit (UPEN))
As is evident in figure X, there has been a decrease
of the GDP around 1956-1972, due to the commodity crisis
(arising from the states economic dependency on
agriculture) that took place in the early stage. In 1980-81, the
wars in the Middle East disrupted global oil supply, resulting
in the rise of oil prices. This phenomenon was in favor of
Malaysia as it is an oil supplier, and this cause the GDP to
increase during that period. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
The performance of the government in 1986, the
agriculture, mining, construction and services sectors and
manufacturing industries experienced depletion in income.
In 1995, the contribution of Selangors GDP to the GDP of
others Countries was 20.4%. Selangor was striving to
achieve an advanced state status by 2005 based on the
vision 2005, which was an integral part of the seventh
34
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Malaysia Plan 1996-2000 Selangor Darul Ehsan.
(McGullick, Badan Warisan Malaysia, 2016)
In 1997 the economy was once again drawn into
financial crisis. The magnitude of the effect of the crisis was
much larger than that of the crisis in the mid-1900s. The
government took action to gain back the market confidence.
The manufacturing sector was the most important sector by
then, accounting for approximately 52.9% of GDP Selangor.
Followed by the transportation sector at 12.2%, finance,
property and business at 10.3%, and wholesale and retail
trade at 10.6%, with the agriculture sector, mining sector and
construction accounting for only 2.15%, 0.71% and 3.28%
respectively in 2005. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992), (McGullick,
Badan Warisan Malaysia, 2016)
The GDP per capita in the state of Selangor recorded
an increase of 2.4 % from RM111, 977.8 in 2004 to RM
12,264.2 in 2005.
Due to the Global Electronic crisis, the GDP growth
of Selangor shrank from 8.4 percent to negative 1.6 percent
in 2008.
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Figure 2-16 Selangor State Budget from 1984-2010
(Sources: Selangor State Economy Planning Unit (UPEN)
As shown in figure 2-16, the state of Selangor
contributes significantly to the nations wealth and economic
development. The state must be properly run and managed
in order to continue attracting domestic and foreign
investment. A crucial aspect of this is the form of financial
management of the state resources. (McGullick, Badan
Warisan Malaysia, 2016)
2.4.1 Agriculture
In the 19th century, most of Selangor was covered by
forests. The population was low and concentrated in
traditional settlement located near the rivers such as Sungai
Bernam, Sungai Selangor, Sungai Klang, Sungai Langat and
Sungai Lukut.
The Malay people in Selangor were involved mainly
in two types of agriculture; shifting cultivation, and farming.
35
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Shifting cultivation involved the clearance of a forested area Coffee 7,000

for one or two seasonal crops only. After that, the area was Paddy 4,787
left to grow back into a forest. Farming activities involved Table 2-10 The statistics of four main crops in Selangor in 1912

the cultivation of paddy, vegetables and tree fruits. Source: (Khoo.K.K, 1992)

They only used a small portion of land for farming While rubber plantations were increasing, coffee

since the cultivation is only to support their daily needs. plantations were declining. In 1915, the area for the coffee

Sometimes they exchanged their goods among the villagers. plantation was reduced to about 4,305 acres while the rubber

Aside from agriculture, the Malay communities were also palntaion area increased to 174,197 acres. Three years later,

involved in forestry and fishery. (Khoo.K.K, 1992) the pattern remains unchanged (refer the Table 2-11). In
1920, the rubber plantation started to decline (as shown in
Table 2-12).
The main agriculture was the cultivation of paddy.
Crops Acres
Until the mid-1900s, Selangor had a large supply of rice and
Rubber 344,230
didnt have to import any rice. This was achieved during the
Coconut 46,928
reign of Sultan Mahmud. However, the civil war from 1866
Coffee 5,871
to 1873 caused many of the paddy fields to be damaged. Due
Paddy 4,686
to the destruction of the paddy fields, some people starting
Table 2-11: The statistics of four main crops in Selangor in 1917
rearing chicken and duck while others did various kinds of Source: (Khoo.K.K, 1992)
cultivation such as banana, cane, and coconut (Amarjit Kaur,
1992).
Crops Acres
Coconut plantation became the second most
Rubber 409,257
important crop in Selangor.
Coconut 62,217
Crops Acres Paddy 15,534
Rubber 169,229 Table 2-12 The statistics of four main crops in Selangor in 1920
Source: (Khoo.K.K, 1992)
Coconut 38,323

36
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
From 1919 and 1920, paddy plantation in Kuala
Selangor increased from 3,985 acres to 7,600 acres due to
the increasing price of paddy. (Khoo.K.K, 1992)
In the 1920s, Selangor was the first state in the
Malay Peninsula to use palm oil plantation as a commercial
plantation. This development came about due to the
establishment of Tennamaram oil Palm Estate in Kuala
Selangor in 1917 and the decline in the price of rubber. The
shift from rubber plantations to palm oil plantation was
prominent not only in Selangor but also in Johor and Perak.
(Khoo.K.K, 1992)
In 1926, there were nineteen estates of palm oil in
Malaya. However, until 1928, the palm oil tree exportation
from Malaya (1,480 tons) was very low compared to
Sumatera (26,000 tons). (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
In 1921, the pineapple factory companies were
established in Klang. This encouraged the locals to plant the
pineapple. In 1924, about 5,000 acres of land in Klang and
Kuala Langat were used to plant pineapples and most of the
land was based in small gardens. In 1930, Malayan
Pineapple Company was established. Almost eighty percent
of the Malayan pineapple yield was exported to the United
Kingdom. (Khoo.K.K, 1992)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
2.4.2 Mining
Tin mining was very important in the Malay Peninsula since
the 19th century. The miners of Selangor were the local
villagers. In 1839, tin mining in Selangor produced about
3,600 tons of tin. Due to this rapid development, many
laborers from China came to the tin mines in Selangor. After
the British formed Strait Settlements, the states under Strait
Settlements achieved rapid development and the population
increased. In the mid-19th century, tin mining was
monopolized by the Chinese. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
Tin and rubber were Selangors main exports during
World War I. At the same time, charcoal was found in the
area of Rawang. On the 20th of June, 1913, Malayan
Collieries. Ltd. was founded to produce coal for the tin
mines. In the early 1930s, Malayan Collieries. Ltd. declined
due to the great depression. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
The mining activities were focused three areas,
Kuala Lumpur, Hulu Selangor (Rawang, Serendah, and
Kuala Kubu) and Hulu Langat. However, after, the World
War I, the tin mining industry began to decline. (Amarjit
Kaur, 1992)
In conclusion, Selangor experienced many changes
in the span of a hundred years, between 1857 and 1957. The
economy of Selangor in 1857 was managed by the Sultan
37
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
and his people. A hundred years later, the economy of
Selangor changed into the commodity that exported of tin
and rubber, and paddy cultivation was neglected. The
economic development caused people from China, Sumatera
India to come to Selangor. The economy of Selangor finally
became part of the free economic system which exports raw
materials and imports goods. (Amarjit Kaur, 1992)
2.5 Culture
The culture of Selangor is a product of the various
cultures personified by the different people of Malaysia. The
indigenous tribes which remain in Selangor to this day were
the first people to inhabit this area, followed by Malays who
migrated here from mainland Asia in ancient times. (Sultan
Alam Shah Museum, 2016) When Malaysia started trading
with China and India, the immigration of people from these
countries to Malaysia increased. This led to increased
interaction between people of different countries and their
cultures. Hence, the culture of people in Selangor was deeply
influenced by the Chinese and Indian cultures, followed by
Persian, Arabic, and British cultures. (Sultan Alam Shah
Museum, 2016)
2.5.1 Religion in Selangor
Selangor is a multi-confessional and multicultural
state encompassing Muslims, Buddhists, Christians,
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Hindus, and other religions in the following percentages
61.3%, 19.8%, 9.2%, 6.3% and 3% respectively. Islam is
the major religion in this area as observed from the
percentages above. It was first introduced in the 12th
century by Muslim traders from China, India and the Arab
countries. In the early 15th century the Sultanate of
Malacca (commonly considered as the first independent
state in the Peninsula) was the first region to which Islam
was introduced. It was the Muslim Prince of Malacca that
spread Islam throughout Selangor. By the 15th century
Islam was the most widely practiced religion in Selangor.
Generally, in Malaysia as well as Selangor there is a
peaceful relationship among the different religious groups.
(Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
Figure 2-17 Percentage of religions distribution in Malaysia.
(Source: Department of Statistics Malaysia Official Portal)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Religion in Selangor- 2012 Census The development of village religious school did not
affect the educational process taking place in masjids. This
religion Percentage
is because the religious teachings in the masjids focus more
Islam 54.8% on memorizing the Quran and intonation for the most part.
Buddhism 29.5% Religious education continued to develop with the
introduction of new subjects such as UsuluDdin, Tajweed
Hinduism 9.5%
and Tawhid. (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
Christianity 8.9%
2.5.2 Art and Music in Selangor
Other 3.0%
Traditional art was focusing on the elements such as
Table 2-13 Religions in Selangor (Source: 2012 Population and
Housing Census of Malaysia" Department of Statistics, Malaysia. carving, silver smiting, and weaving. One of the Selangor
Retrieved 17 June 2012. p. 13)
culture features is the calligraphy of Thuluth Script. The
script has distinctive characteristics such as its small, upright
Religion was mainly practiced in religious schools
and non-rectilinear format, and is faster and easier to write
also known as Sekolah Pondok which were considered as
compared to other scripts. It is written using few types of the
educational institutions and masjids. The village religious
pen; bamboo, feather quill, wood, chalk, brush, rattan and
schools in Selangor are believed to have existed since the
modern pen. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
1930s or even earlier. (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016)
Usually, certain figures specifically those from the Malay
Archipelago involved in spreading the massage of Islam to
the Malay Peninsula established these schools. The lessons
taught comprised of the basic religious teachings such as
reading the Quran, praying and other topics related to Islam
while not much importance was placed on worldly skills.
(Pikyung, November 3, 2011)

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Figure 2-18 Calligraphy of Thuluth Script

(Source: ClipArt Best Portal)
Figure 2-19 Musical instrument (left) and Tarian Sewang (right)
(Source: Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara/ Department of
The musical instrument is the main part of the Arts and Culture Official Portal)

traditional music. Different culture has different type of

instrument and music. The diverse music and dance forms exhibited in
Selangor are a testament to its multi-cultural and multi-racial
Every culture owns their unique cultural dances like
heritage. The dances of the Orang Asli, different ethnic
Tarian Sewang which originated from Temiar ethnic
groups and indigenous Malay are beyond doubt one of the
indigenous community. Sewang was originally a ritual
most enchanting and exotic dances. (Sultan Alam Shah
among the indigenous community what cure sickness.
Museum, 2016)
However, nowadays Sewang is becoming a type of dance
performance. It combines music, singing and dance elements Rebana Ubi - The resounding rhythmic beats of the

accompanied by musicians playing an instrument. (Sariff giant rebana ubi drums conveyed various messages from

San Ka Chang, 2016) (Sultan Alam Shah Museum, 2016) wedding announcements to warnings of danger, in the days
of the ancient Malay kingdoms. These same drums were later
used as musical instruments in an assortment of social
performances. (Sariff San Ka Chang, 2016)

40
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Figure 2-20 The Rebana Ubi
(Source: https://www.liveauctioneers.com)
2.5.3 Dances and Celebrations
Selangor being a multi-cultural society and a
combination of Indians, Malaysians and Chinese has become
the home of multiple ethnic groups with different traditional
dances. (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
Zapin is a popular Malaysian dance well known in
Selangor, Johor and Pahang. Introduced by the Arabs in the
14th century, it has evolved and taken a new form.
Previously only men were allowed to perform the dance but
by the passage of time women were also included. Now it
acts as a form of entertainment but in olden times it was
specifically performed for religious ceremonies only. Along
with traditional musical instruments such as the rebab,
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
marwas (bongos), rebana (drum), etc. it is performed in pairs
and has become a major part of the culture of Selangor.
Figure 2-21 Dancers are also wearing traditional clothing.
(Source: http://bukitbatoksec.swiiit.com/cos)
Chinese Fan Dance - In the Chinese community the
fan dance comes into perspective as one of the dances
performed during special occasions. It represents beauty,
grace, delicacy and joy. It is the fusion of changing body
movements to the changing rhythms of the instruments. The
fan is a major element in the dance. Not only does it highlight
the movements, but it is also used as a prop to represent a
treasure, food basket etc. It is a representation of
craftsmanship and can be covered in delicate and detailed
patterns. Its usually made of bamboo, papers and feathers.
(Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
41
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Figure 2-23 Indian Traditional Dance.

(Source;http://www.sehernow.in)

Figure 2-22 Chinese Traditional Dance 2.5.4 Clothing

(Source; http://se.clearharmony.net)
When we talk about the cultural or traditional dress
Indian Dance - Indian dances are classified into two:
of Selangor, we cant ignore the dominance and influence of
classical and folk. Classical dances including complicated
three cultures: Malay, Chinese and Indian. (Pikyung,
hand and feet movements are usually for spiritual purposes.
November 3, 2011)
For example, a dance in a temple for the Gods, or during a
Malaysian Malay clothing - Is made up of bright and
ceremony. While folk dances are more often performed in
bold colors. The men wear a religious hat along with the
celebrations. Indian dances are an expression of human
garments. Malaysian men wear a loose garment with trousers
feelings, thus facial expression and hand gestures have a
known as baju melayu and are usually accompanied with
major impact. Indian classical dances are very diverse based
sampin (which is a sarong that is wrapped around the hips)
on region; each form represents a region or group of people.
and a songkok (a traditional head piece similar in design to
(Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
the outfit worn). Preferably, men clothing are either silk or
cotton with a scarf that is tied along the waist and
traditionally known as kain. (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)

42
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

On the other hand, Malaysian women wear
traditional clothing known as baju Kurung which is full
length, loose-fitting and made up of a skirt and blouse. The
blouse reaches till the knees, with long sleeves and is
collarless. The baju kurung is made up of vibrant colors with
floral and geometric patterns. The baju kurung is worn with
a headscarf known as tudung, mainly for religious purposes.
(Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
trousers, light-weight trousers and informal sandals for
comfort. (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
Chinese women wear one-piece dresses,
Cheongsam which has a huge collar, diagonally closed with
small clips and usually made of silk. Being a multi-cultural
community the Malaysian traditional dress is popular among
the Malaysian-Chinese community and at times, they wear
the traditional Malay clothing as well. (Pikyung, November
3, 2011)

Figure 2-24 The Typical Malay Baju Melayu for mens and
Baju Kurung for Women (Source;
http://fashionmeetsculture.blogspot.my/)

Malaysian Chinese - The Malaysian Chinese Figure 2-25 Traditional Chinese Clothing
(Source; http://www.aliexpress.com/)
traditional dress for men in Malaysia in general and in
Selangor as well is a short sleeved shirt worn outside the
43
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Malaysian Indian - In terms of clothing Indian
traditional clothes include the sari, a long single fabric
between 4 to 9 meters long wrapped around the body, it is
worn with a blouse and pullover. Indian women, especially
those who have migrated from the Northern parts, continue
to wear shalwar kameez, which is long blouse that extends
till the knees with a shawl thrown across the chest, known as
dupata (also known as pajama).
Men wear a two-piece garment: shalwar - trouser
and kameez - shirt). (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
Figure 2-26 Traditional Indian Clothing
(Source; http://dresss.xyz/.)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Apart from the shalwar kameez men also have
several tradition clothings including sherwani (a coat like
knee length garment which is body fitting), lungi, dhoti and
kurta-pajama along with baggy pants which are tight around
the ankles and leg. (Pikyung, November 3, 2011)
2.5.5 Food
The state of Selangor is a seafood attraction spot
famous for its variety of seafood. Being located in the west
coast of Peninsular Malaysia, it has one of the main fishing
villages famous for their seafood. Tourists visit Kuala
Selangor because of its known reputation for fresh seafood.
It has Malaysian and Chinese restaurants specialized in
seafood.
Figure 2-27 Traditional Foods Found in Selangor.
(Source;http://www.backpackingmalaysia.com)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.5.6 Traditional Games These are traditional clothes which are based on 9 districts
of Selangor State:
Traditional games played by the people of Selangor
are unanimous within the Chinese, Indian and Orang Asli
communities. (Johan Iskandar. 2009)

Congkak is a game of Malay origin played in Malaysia,

Singapore, Brunei, Southern Thailand and also some parts of
Sumatera and Borneo. (Johan Iskandar. 2009)
Figure 2-29 Petaling Malay (UP) and Sepang Malay (DOWN)
The word congkak was believed to have originated (Source: KerisWarisan Official Portal)

from the old Malay word congak, meaning mental

calculation that is evident in the game. It was considered that
a good player will have an advantage in collecting points to
win the game when the player calculates a few steps in
advance. (Johan Iskandar. 2009)

Figure 2-30 Hulu Selangor Rawa ethnic (left) and Gombak

Mandailing ethnic (right) (Source: KerisWarisan Official Portal)

Figure 2-31 Kuala Selangor Javanese ethnic (left) and Sabak Bernam
Banjar ethnic (right) (Source: KerisWarisan Official Portal)

Figure 2-28 Conkak game using Marbles in a Wooden Container.

(Source: http://hafidzyoungscientist.blogspot.my)

45
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Figure 2-32 Hulu Langat Minang ethnic (left) and Klang Bugis
ethnic (right) (Source: KerisWarisan Official Portal)
Figure 2-33 Kuala Langat Mahmeri ethnic (Source: KerisWarisan
Official Portal)
2.6 Architectural Styles and Influences in Selangor
Architecture in Selangor has a mixture of many
styles like Islamic, Chinese, Indian and Colonial style.
Malaysia is a tropical country. So, mostly houses are raised
on stilts with high roof and large window what allowing the
air to come inside the house to cool down the temperature.
(Norazmawati, 2012)
Wood, bamboo, leaves; thatches were the main
building materials across Malaysia. These material also been
used in royal palaces. Sometimes the woodwork is
complicatedly carved. (Norazmawati, 2012)
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
There are two types Chinese architecture, which are
traditional and Baba Nyonya. Baba Nyonya households are
made of colorful tiles and have large indoor courtyards.
(Norazmawati, 2012)
Indian architecture came with the Malaysian Indians
what is reflecting the architecture of southern India where
the most originated from. Indian architecture also brought
Mughal style in Malaysia. Malaysia also was influenced by
the Mid-East architectural style. Moorish considered one of
Islamic Architecture style which was being used in many
buildings especially masjid. Colonial style came to Malaysia
by the arrival of British. This style was one of the popular
styles. In many heritage building proves the use of colonial
style like Sultan Abdul Samad Building. (Norazmawati,
2012)
Many mosques have been used traditional Javanese
architecture. Nowadays, government is encouraging
different project using contemporary architectural style. The
PETRONAS twin tower is one of the tallest building in the
world what makes a land mark of Malaysia. Many Malaysian
office buildings are skyscrapers, which is suitable and eco-
friendly in this tropical climate. (Norazmawati, 2012)
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.7 Hulu Langat Districy

2.7.1 Introduction to Hulu Langat

The Hulu Langat District is a district and is located

between Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, on the Southeast of
Klang Valley. Hulu Langat is the fifth largest district
in Selangor State with an area of 826 square kilometres and
a population of 1,141,880 at the 2010 Census. It has a mix of
urban and rural settlements with a majority of the population
settling in towns near Kuala Lumpur. The District has 7
mukim, which are Ampang, Beranang, Cheras, Hulu Langat,
Hulu Semenyih, Semenyih and Kajang. (Perbadanan Adat
Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor, 2016)

2.7.2 How Hulu Langat Got Its Name

The origin of the name Hulu Langat was believed to

be sourced from the word hangat which means hot. Long
ago, Sungai Langat was the primary means of transportation
for foreign traders. The interchange port for this river was Figure 2-34: Map of Selangor
(Source: Majlis Dan Pejabat Daerah Selangor)
called Dusun Tua. This was a hot spot for the traders, which
attributed it with the name hangat. However, due to the lisp
or mispronunciation of the Tiong Hua traders, the name was 2.7.3 History of Hulu Langat

later pronounced as langat. It is also due to the place was
located at the Hulu river, it was finally called Hulu Langat.
(Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004)
This area was gazette under the National Land
Code. It could have been a territory of Negeri Sembilan but
for the concord which led to the handing over of the Lukut
District to Negeri Sembilan, thus paving the way for Hulu
Langat to be part of Selangor.
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

According to reliable oral sources, the original 2.8 Beranang

inhabitants of Hulu Langat were the natives or the aboriginal
people. They were responsible for the formation of Hulu
Langat as a new settlement through subsistence economic
activities such as farming and hunting. (Perbadanan Adat
Melayu dan Warisan Negeri Selangor & Koleksi Cerita
Rakyat, 2004). They were the early villagers of the area of
Hulu Langat, formerly known as Kampong Dusun Tua,
before it had even been named. Their population was rather
constricted, and among the earliest people living there were
Tok Rodu and the wife, Nenek Robiah. (Koleksi Cerita
Rakyat, 2004, p. 4) example of the right citation)

The history of Kampung Dusun Tua developed with

the arrival of warriors from Indonesia, based on the stories
of Raja Asal, Tok Lisut and others. From Indonesia, they
came to Klang and pursued their journey through rivers and
finally stopped in Bukit Nenasi. Some of them continued
their journey until they arrived to Kampung Dusun Tua.
Most of the people that time lived in orchids and they lived
harmoniously as a society. (Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004)
Figure 2-35 Map of Hulu Langat
(Source: Majlis Perbandaran Kajang)
2.8.1 How Beranang Got Its Name
Beranang district is located adjacent to Negeri
Sembilan, in fact the history of Beranang is closely related
to that of Negeri Sembilan. This district stretches across
6,190 hectares of land. There are a total of eleven villages
under Beranang, all of which are Malay villages, namely;
Kampung Sungai Jai, Kampung Bukit Kepong, Kampung

48
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
Sungai Kembong Hilir, Kampong Sungai Kembong Hulu,
Kampung Sesapan Minangkabau, Kampung Sesapan Batu
Rembau, Kampung Sesapan Kelubi, Kampung Rinching
Hilir, Kampung Rinching Tengah, Kampung Kuala Pajam,
Kampung Jalan Enam Kaki, and Kampung Indah PKNS.
(Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004, p. 1)
2.8.2 History of Beranang
Previously, there were many wars between Negeri
Sembilan and Selangor. They used to have land seizure
among them. The land seizure occurred between Raja
Alangs land and the land owner of Sungai Ujong. Many
people died due to the war and their blood spilled into the
swamp and turned it into a bright red color. The corpses were
floating (or swimming) in the swamp (Azmir, 2016). It was
metaphorically said that the people were swimming in a
large battlefield. The term used for swimming was berenang,
and from it the name Beranang was derived, which was the
way it was pronounced by the Minangkabau people.
(Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004, p. 1)
However, according to the old folks in Beranang,
there was a fight between generals on a bridge, which is now
known as Sg. Beranang bridge. It was a fight between a
Minangkabau tribe from the North and a group of Negeri
Sembilans citizen from the South. The fight is believed to
ignite when the two groups fought over a beautiful lady.
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
They were using keris and lembing which causes many
injuries and death. Some even plunged into the river and the
blood spilled changed its color. The corpses were floating
and looked like swimming (berenang) in the river. Due to
the local dialect, berenang was pronounced as beranang.
Hence, that is when Beranang got its name. (Profile Mukim
Beranang 2015, Unit Pembangunan Masyarakat)
Beranang district had been explored in around 1890s
with the origin villagers consists of the Aboriginals. The
arrival of the other explorer caused these aboriginals to move
into new areas. On the early ages, the population reached
about 400 people. This district (mukim) had been officially
opened by Sultan Alauddin Sulaiman Shah (Koleksi Cerita
Rakyat, 2004, 43)
2.8.3 Geography
In the past, Beranang had flourishing fertile lands
and was covered in paddy fields, however in the recent years
the lands have become increasingly unfertile due to
deficiency of water and attacks on the crops by pets and
birds. It is a common belief that the land had become cursed
to become infertile due to the appointment of a village chief
who was not from the royal bloodline. (Azmir, 2016)
49
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
2.8.4 Socio-Culture
(i) Economy
The economy of the villages in Beranang was
heavily dependent on the production of batik as well as
paddy agriculture in the past. (Azmir, 2016) However, the
land in the area is no longer suitable for paddy planting due
to the decreasing water level of the river. The river was
polluted due to the development of Semenyih town.
According to Haji Alias, the main source of the pollution was
from the development in Taman PKNS. Lemongrass
plantations have now replaced the paddy fields. Lemon grass
became the primary form of agricultural produce as it is easy
to grow, it takes duration of up to only four (4) months and
there are fewer competitors in the market. (Alias, 2016)
Figure 2-36 Lemon Grass Plantation
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
Figure 2-37 Lemon Grass Harvest
Due to the infertility of the land, it takes up to six (6)
months to fertilize the soil. The Lemon Grass market price
in the current economy is RM 10 per bundle (Tangsi, 2016).
Most of the village residents are doing business with their
crops as well as other businesses especially around Pekan
Sari. (Nenek Juriah, 2016)
Some of the villagers are masseuses and earn part of
their livelihood from giving massages. There is a folktale
about a guy who broke his leg falling from a coconut tree.
He then went to Beranang to seek massage therapy. After
receiving a massage on his broken leg he was able to climb
the tree next day. (Azmir, 2016)
50
Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang
(ii) Religion
Previously, the majority of the population in
Beranang was Chinese. Five of the villages in Beranang are
clustered around Masjid Raja Alang and it serves are their
community masjid as decided by the land department based
on the population of the villages. As related by Azmir
(2016), there is a folktale about communist seeking the
destruction of the masjid and launching an attack on it, but
the masjid was mysteriously protected by army dressed in
green jubah and wielding swords. The masjid is believed to
have nine (9) invisible guardians. They watch the behavior
of the people in the masjid and whoever performs improper
acts in the masjid would be punished by the nine (9)
guardians.
During Ramadhan, tadarus is held in the masjid
every morning after Subh prayer and Taraweeh at night.
(Zahra, personal communication, 2016)
Figure 2-38 Siak reciting Quran in Masjid Raja Alang
Chapter 2: Contextual Studies
(iii) Culture
The Minangkabau society was founded through
migrations from Sumatera, Indonesia and they were the
earliest settlers in Hulu Langat. They were well known for
their strong belief and practice of their customs adat
perpateh. They lived by the popular phrase, biar mati anak,
jangan mati adat. The custom includes the practice
of democracy in electing chiefs and a king. Only men are
eligible to be elected as leaders for their clan or tribe. Their
culture is holds the dignity of a woman in high regards, and
thereby, passing property and land down from mother to
daughter as a trustee, while religious and political affairs are
the responsibility of men. This is to protect the honor and
dignity of the women. That means, however poor an Adat
Perpatih woman may be, she will never have to sell her
dignity to earn a living. If she is divorced and returns to her
village, she has lands to work on to earn a living, while a son
is considered more robust, and can live under any conditions
and have lesser need for a house.
The division of properties, they prioritize the
youngest daughter. So Nenek Johari is the owner of the
house because shes the youngest daughter (Idris & Johari,
2016). An Adat Perpatih woman may not sell the land or pass
the land to her sons. If she does not have any daughters, she
may pass the land to her sons daughters by adopting them
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

and thus passing her clan and tribe name to them through a and caklempong, and junjung (Herni Kari & Agus Mariatin,
ceremony called berkedim. This custom follows 2016). The only remaining traditions to this day are the food,
the Islamic obligation that Muslim men have to provide language and their traditional musical instruments which are
shelter and basic welfare of their divorced female relatives the Gong and Caklempung, however the musical instruments
and their children. are rarely used presently. As for the cuisines, coconut milk
and chilies are the primary ingredients. The Minang from
One of the distinctive features in the Minang belief
Kampung Sesapan Batu Minangkabau are the original and
is the relationship between the members of a clan. For
pure Minang, still speaking the language. Those in Negeri
example, Minangkabau people from the same clan are not
Sembilan do not speak the language and longer. (Mukhtar
allowed to marry each other because they considered to be
Idris, personal communication, 2016)
sibling. They believe that anyone who breaks this rule will
face dire consequences for their actions. (Koleksi Cerita (iv) Profile of Mukim Beranang (2015)
Rakyat, 2004)
1. Chief of the Villages
Mantai is a tradition for the villagers in every
Name of the Village Name of the Chief
starting of any festivals (Alias, 2016). Everytime a Mantai
Kampung Bukit Kepong Md. Zamri bin Kamarddin
Festival is held; rendang will be made at the back of the
house and cooked on the firewood along with sup tulang. Kampung Sungai Jai Ruslan bin Hassan
(Herni Kari & Agus Mariatin, personal communication,
Kampung Sesapan Batu Mokhtar bin Idris
2016)
Minangkabau
The old minang people used to practice traditions
Kampung Sesapan Batu Shaharudin bin Johar
such as Tarian Piring for wedding ceremonies, and it was
Rembau
customary for silat to be performed in those ceremonies. The
traditions gradually disappeared as people moved out of the Kampung Sesapan Kelubi Alias bin Yakob

villages. The new generations felt shy about carrying out the Kampung Indah PKNS Wan Kamaruddin bin Wan
traditions. (Mukhtar Idris, 2016). Minority of the Minang Salleh
society still practice the Minang culture such as tarian piring
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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Kampung Rinching Bassri bin Ayop 3. Number of Facilities Available

Tengah
Facilities Location Total
Kampung Rinching Hilir Malek bin Ridzwan Hut School Kg. Sesapan Kelubi, Kg Paya, 3

Kampung Sungai Othman bin Kassim Kg. Rinching Hilir

Kembong Hilir Religious Kg. Sesapan Batu Minangkabau, 6

School Kuala Pajam, Kg. Rinching
Kampung Sungai Salim bin Zainudin
Tengah, Kg. RInching Hilir,
Kembong Hulu
SRA Integrasi Pekan Beranang,
Kampung Kuala Pajam Mohamad Azam bin KAFA Integrasi Al-Falah Bandar
Murad Tasik Kesuma

Kampung Jalan Enam Kaki Zakaria bin Md Noh Primary Kg. Bukit Kepong, Kg. 4
School RInching Tengah, Kg. RInching
Ketua Komuniti India Jeevaratanam A/L
Hilir, Kg. Kuala Pajam, Bandar
Sengalayaran Tasik Kesuma
Table 2-14 Chief of the Villages
Kg. Bukit Kepong (Chinese 1
2. Demography of Villagers School)

Type Number Secondary Kg. Bukit Kepong, Bandar Tasik 2

School Kesuma
Population 11181
College/ IPT/ Kolej Profesional MARA, 3
Number of House 2974 Institute MARA Japan Institute, UKM

Number of Senior Citizen 1145 Medical College

Masjid Kg. RInching Hilir, Kg. Sungai 6

Number of Person with Disabilities (PWD) 60
Kembong HIlir, Kg. Sg.
Table 2-15 Demography of Villagers
Kembong HHulu, Kg. Kuala

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

Pajam, Kg. Sesapan Bt. Rembau,

Masjid Raja Alang Beranang

Musolla Kg. Sungai Jai (3), Kg. Jalan 15

Enam kaki (2), Kg. Bukit
Kepong (1), Kg. Indah PKNS
(1), Kg. Sesapan Bt. Rembau (1),
Kg. Rinching Tengah (1), Kg.
Sg. Kembong Hilir (1), Kg.
Sesapan Kelubi (1), Bandar
Tasik Kesuma (4)

Muslim Kg. Rinching Hilir (6 acres), 6

Cemetery Kg. Kuala Pajam/ Kg. Sg.

Kembong HHulu/ Hilir (5 acres),

Kg. Jalan Enam Kaki (2 acres),

Kg. Sesapan Bt. Rembau/ Kg.

Sesapan Kelubi/ Kg. Indah
PKNS (5 acres),

Kg, Rinching Tengah (5 acres),

Bandar Tasik Kesuma (10 acres)

Buddhist Kg. Sesapan Kelubi (3 acres) 1

Cemetery Kg. Rinching Tengah 1

Hindu
Cemetery

Table 2-16 Number of Facilities Available

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

4. Government Agencies

Agency Total

Perpustakaan Desa Pekan Beranang 1

Klinik Kesihatan Beranang 1

Klinik Desa 2 (Kg. Sesapan Batu Minangkabau, Kg. Ricnhing Hilir)

KEMAS 3 (Pekan Beranang, Kg. Sungai Jai, Kg. Rinching Tengah)

Persatuan Peladang (PPK) Beranang 1 (Kg. Indah PKNS)

Persatuan Koperasi Melayu Beranang 1 (Kg. Sesapan Batu Rembau)

Kem PLKN 1 (Kg. Sesapan Bt. Rembau)

Dewan Hj. Md Silin 1 (Pekan Beranang)

Dataran Dato Md. Said 1 (Kg. Rinching Tengah)

Police Station 2 (Beranang, Bandar Seri Putra)

Post Office 1 (Beranang)

Pusat Khidmat Masyarakat, ADUN Semenyih Kg. Sesapan Batu Rembau 1

Table 2-17 Government Agencies (Source: Profile Mukim Beranang 2015, Unit Pembangunan Masyarakat)

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.9 Introduction to Kampung Tanjung/Kg Sesapan an abundance of Kelubi trees, and thus the name Kampung
Kelubi Sesapan Kelubi was given to that area due to the wild trees
2.9.1 Introduction and the river. Sesapan is a term with the meaning of river.

Kampung Sesapan Kelubi was established a (Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004)

millennium ago in the year 1887 by some of the Javanese 2.9.2 Transformation and Growth
and Minangkabau traders. The traders had been sent to
In the early stages, most of the Minang people tried
explore the area and were led by Tok Mangkun (Muslim
to locate their settlements near the rivers (Mukhtar Idris,
Javanese). The remains of his grave can be found in the area
2016).
of Kampong Sesapan Kelubi up until now. Kampong
Sesapan Kelubi consists of three smaller villages namely; There used to be a main road in front of the masjid

Kampung Sesapan Kelubi, Kampung Bukit Batu and which was destroyed during the flood in the year 1940. This

Kampung Tanjung. (Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004, p. 1)
It is estimated to cover 8 km2 of land, covering
Kampung Sesapan Kelubi, Kampung Bukit Batu and
Kampung Tanjung. Physically, the geography of the land is
hilly and has three rivers which area Sungai Beranang,
Sungai Sompo and Sungai Solok. (Profile Mukim Beranang
also caused the destruction of the bridge over Sungai Sompo.
In the later years, Jalan Semenyih was constructed at the
same time as the current bridge over the river. However they
were constructed in a different location from the previously
destroyed construction.
The masjid was surrounded by a huge paddy field in

2015, Unit Pembangunan Masyarakat) the past, and the area consisted of over three quarters of the
land covered in paddy fields and only about a quarter of the
Kampung Tanjung is home to Masjid Raja Alang.
land reserved for residential areas (Azmir, 2016). Presently,
However due to its low populace it is considered to be part
residential areas are exponentially increasing.
of Kampung Sesapan Kelubi. (Azmir, 2016). The top soil
layer in the village was swampy or berpaya and dipenuhi
belukar or bushes. There were many wild trees around the
area, including Kelubi trees. In the early years of 1887 of
Javanese settlements, they discovered a riverbank that had

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

2.9.3 Socio-culture
(i) Management Chart

State

District
Pentadbiran Pejabat Daerah

Figure 2-39 Sungai Sompo

Mukim
PenghHulu Mukim

Chief Village
JKKK

Chart 2-1 Management Chart

The chief of the village is directly answerable to

Penghulu Mukim who falls right below Pentadbiran Pejabat
Daerah of the District in the pecking order.

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

(ii) Villagers Information (2015) (iii) Economy

Age Man Woman Total Number Notes No. of

Businessman
6 and 42 61 103
Agriculture
below
1 Palm oil -
7-15 63 76 139
2 Rubber 3
16-40 249 231 480
3 Others
41-60 82 97 179 Husbandry/ Fishery

61 and 51 63 114 1 Cow 400

above 2 Buffalo 20

Total 487 528 1015 3 Goat 250

Table 2-18 Villagers Information (2015), Ages 4 Cat Fish 500

Number Race Number Percent 5 Chicken 500

(people) (%) Others

1 Malay 948 93.5 1 Car Workshop 1

2 Chinese 5 0.3 2 Metal Workshop 3

3 Grocery/ Restaurant 4
3 Indian - -
4 Others 2
4 Others 62 6.2
Table 2-20 Economy of Kampung Sesapan Kelubi (Source: Profile
Total 1015 100% Mukim Beranang 2015, Unit Pembangunan Masyarakat)

Table 2-19 Villagers Information (2015): Race

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Masjid Raja Alang, Beranang Chapter 2: Contextual Studies

(iv) Culture 2.10 Summary

Minangkabau society is a unique society because of This chapter is a thorough study on the context
its well-known with variation of suku. For example, in around Masjid Raja Alang. It covers the study of the macro
Kampung Sasapan Batu Rembau, there are six (6) minang and micro site context, a study of their history, geography,
suku that live in there, such as suku Koto, suku Melayu, suku climate, socio-culture and architecture.
Sikumbang, suku Jambak Haus, suku Jambak Ketapang and
others. One on the most formidable suku is Jambak
Ketapang. In Minang beliefs or superstitions, Jambak
Ketapang will turn into a Kemolok ghost (for 7 days) right
after their deaths.

Zikr or Marhaban is still being practiced by

Mandailing people in Kampung Dusun Tua. Usually, zikr is
being held on the malam berinai or the night of the wedding
ceremony. This ceremony is handled by 15 people using
traditional drums, namely gendang and rebana. It usually
commences at night and is continuously played until the next
morning (Koleksi Cerita Rakyat, 2004, p. 43).

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