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PAGE 39 | MOW 14 Exploring Indonesia
Exploring Indonesia

The Works of

HAMZAH FANSURI

Indonesia, Malaysia

Hamzah Fansuri was a major pioneer in the
world of classical Malay literature in the 16th
century. At a time when Malay poetry still largely
imitated Arabic and Persian forms, he dared to
break new ground by creating a distinctive
Malay style of poetry. This gave rise to a
tradition of writing that was closer to their own
language and culture, while also paving the way
for the development of modern Indonesian and
Malaysian literature. He is also known as the first
person to write a book in Malay systematically,
so that his knowledge could be more easily
understood and passed on.

More than just a poet, Hamzah Fansuri was also
a Sufi who spread Sufism through his works,
especially the concept of wahdat al-wujud or
unity of existence. Although some of his books
were burned in 1637, his legacy did not
disappear. There are at least 19 manuscripts
that are still preserved today, including his
famous works such as Syair Burung Pingai and
Syair Ikan Tunggal. The courage Hamzah
showed in writing his name in his poetry, which
was unusual at the time, made him a unique
figure who had a huge influence on the history
of Indonesian literature.