The Portrayal of Women in Malay Proverbs

Authors

• Nureeda Ibni Sulaiman

Publication Date

2022-06-28

Abstract

This paper analyzes the ideology, belief and doctrines in Malay proverbs regarding the role and function of Malay women (Muslimah). This study compiled and analyzed Malay proverbs about women in Kamus Istimewa Peribahasa Melayu Edisi Kedua (A Special Dictionary of Malay Proverbs, 2nd Edition) compiled by Abdullah Hussain and published in 1991 and Kamus Peribahasa Melayu Untuk Pelajar (Dictionary of Malay Proverbs for Students) compiled by Mohd. Tajudin Hj. Abd. Rahman and published in 1999. The study finds that many proverbs reflect Islamic teachings as stated in the Al-Qu’ran, in particular, the chapter An-Nisaa, which contains doctrines for women at almost all stages of their lives, governing their good and bad conduct, marriage, roles and responsibilities as wives and mothers, getting divorced and being widowed. The researcher argues that the principles of Islam protect the rights and freedom of women, with evidence from the Al-Qu’ran. This challenges the common view that Islam oppresses and limits the rights and freedom of women.

First Page

60

Last Page

77

Recommended Citation

Ibni Sulaiman, Nureeda (2022) "The Portrayal of Women in Malay Proverbs," Journal of Letters: Vol. 51: Iss. 1, Article 5.
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/jletters/vol51/iss1/5