Bengkulu Malays

The Bengkulu Malays (Malay: Melayu Bengkulu, Jawi: ملايو بڠكولو‎) are an ethnic group native to Bengkulu, a province on the southwestern coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. While part of the larger Malay cultural and linguistic sphere, they have developed distinct historical, linguistic and cultural traits shaped by their unique geographic and historical context. They are the fourth-largest ethnic group in Bengkulu Province, following the Rejang, Javanese and Minangkabau.

Their origins trace back to indigenous Rejang and Sungai Serut settlers, along with influences from Minangkabau, Javanese, Bugis and Palembangese migrations. These interactions over centuries have contributed to the formation of a unique Bengkulu Malay identity, reflected in their language, customs and traditions.

Culturally, the Bengkulu Malays blend indigenous and external influences, which are evident in their philosophy, attire, architecture and cuisine. One of their most well-known traditions is the Tabot Ceremony, a ritual commemorating the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, which has become a major cultural event in Bengkulu.

Their language, Bengkulu Malay, is widely spoken in coastal and urban areas of Bengkulu Province and serves as a local lingua franca. It has been shaped by influences from Minangkabau, Rejang, Javanese, Arabic and Dutch. Despite modernization, the Bengkulu Malays continue to preserve their cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary influences.