Titles and Ceremonial Traditions of The Royalty and Nobility of the State of Perak, Malaysia gives a powerful dose of inspiration to anyone who has especially never felt the grandeur of the royal court of the State of Perak in Malaysia. This concise, readable volume covers a history from the origin of the name of ‘Perak’ and colonialism to the contemporary privileges, duties and powers of the sovereign, titled princes and chieftains. it is an informative, incisive and even enthralling guide to the Malay customs, rites, rituals, pomp and pageantries.
It touches on topics as diverse as the ancient court etiquette, selection and appointment of the sultan, heirs presumptive, titled princes, hereditary chiefs and their heirs, State regalia and decorations, and from the birth of a prince of blood royal to his eventual ascension to the throne.
It describes unique traditions and customs inherited from the old Malaccan, Achehnese and Rhio Sultanates that have undergone changes through the decades, and many of these hybrid practices embraced by the Perak Malays have been adopted and applied by royals in their neighbouring States.
This book also serves as a practical, astute handbook which shows the reader step-by-step through all types of royal occasions, and enlightens one how to prepare oneself when attending regal fanfares as well as how to conduct conversations and communications with royalty and noblemen.
First published in the Malay language under the title of ”Adat Pusaka Raja- raja dan Orang Besar-besar Negeri Perak Darul Ridzuan” (Customary Rites and Rituals of the Royalty and Nobility of the State of Perak) in 1999, it has taken more than 19 years for this English version to publish as, through the years, there have been many changes to the customary practices and ceremonies once observed by the royalty and nobility.
Efforts have been made to provide updated information including genealogical charts of the Perak Sultan and hereditary chieftains, and more than 1,500 pictures depicting the rich heritage and culture of the royal household are incorporated not only to illustrate the splendor and finery but also to produce better insight and understanding of the lifestyle of royals and noblemen. Its contents are neither dry nor dully academic.
