INTERACTIONS BETWEEN SCHOLARS FROM JAVA (INDONESIA), MELAKA (MALAYSIA) AND CHAMPA (VIETNAM) DURING THE 15TH – 16TH CENTURIES

Abstract

Abstract: In the 15^th century, Nusantara (Malay Archipelago) became the centre of education and Islamic expansion in Southeast Asia. Islam expanded exponentially in the region, from Melaka, Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, Lombok to Champa. Melaka was a vital port, serving as a meeting place for rulers and traders from various parts of the world, while Java became a destination for Islamic scholars from different regions. The ulama (Islamic scholars) from Nusantara, such as the Walisongo (Nine Saints) in Java, played a significant role in the propagation of Islam in this region. This study aimed to investigate how the ulama from Java, Melaka and Champa interacted in efforts to propagate Islam during the 15^th century. It used the historical analysis method to compile and analyse past events, which included gathering sources, historical documents, selecting data, analysing data and interpreting data, and. Data sources mainly comprised relevant secondary sources and historical reports from Demak Bintara, Melaka and Champa. Findings of this study indicate that the ulama from Java, Melaka, and Champa had close relationships and exchanged knowledge to consolidate and expand the influence of Islam in Nusantara. The Nusantara ulama introduced Islam through peaceful means and also enhanced social, political, and economic networking between regions in Southeast Asia. The study offered new insight into the role of Melaka as a facilitator of religious change in Southeast Asia. The Melaka port was not only a trading centre but also an important hub for the Islamic propagation network in the Southeast Asia region, while Java became the centre of Islamic education in Nusantara.