Visit to National Museum of Malaysia (Pre-Colonial Era)

Foundation Stone for Pillar, this stone which discovered in the Buang Valley, Kedah is thought to have been the foundation for a wooden pillar in Hindi Budhist Temple between the 5th and 12th century AD. This demonstrates the earliest modes of architecture in the Malay civilization.

Copper Pots, Boxes and Lamps: Copper bettled boxes were used in traditional Malay ceremonies. Copper Pots were used to hold water and food. Copper Lamps were used only by the rich, having one is a symbol of wealth.

Antique weapons from kingdoms of Demak, Pajang Jawa, and Java. Weapons differ from kingdom to kingdom, showcasing their craftsmanship. Some weapons are used in palace rituals in sacrifices for their gods.

Betel Set; these betel set containers are gold plated and used to hold materials for taking betel nuts, gambier, tobacco, cloves and lime.

Brahman Jalong Statue: In Java this is known as Agastaya depicted as a figure with long hair in a bun, large eyes, a mustachio and long beard. Castle mark was formed in the right shoulder to the waist. The stomache was bulged and its feet are bare. The right hand harries a jar of holywater. This figure is considered to be one of the symbol of Lord Shiva: the destroyer and transformer.

Reflection:

Before the Western forces colonized Asia (in this case Malaysia) , we had our own sense of religion, trade and craftsmanship. We were ethnic, simple and elegant with our modes of artistry. We awakened our sense of spirituality, thanking our creator for the fruits of his nature.Weapons had been made of Iron, we had copper bowls and containers to organize our items. We had been innovative with our ways to hunt, create and express ourselves.