The sacred code: Exploring Malay’s Royal "Gahara" legacy

Prince Abdul Mateen and Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah walk down the aisle during their wedding reception at Istana Nurul Iman in Brunei's capital Bandar Seri Begawan

Photo: IQBAL SELAMAT

The tradition lives on vibrantly in modern royal unions. Take the much-celebrated engagement of Brunei's Prince Mateen to Anisha Isa Kalebic - a union that exemplifies the continued relevance of gahara traditions in contemporary times. Anisha's lineage traces back to Tengku Mohammad Jaafar bin Tengku Mohammad Saad, connecting her to the Sultan of Lingga-Riau-Johor Pahang, ensuring their children will carry the proud "gahara" distinction.

In Negeri Sembilan, the sons of Duli Yang Maha Mulia Tuanku Muhriz of Pagaruyung Dynasty & Duli Yang Maha Mulia Tunku Ampuan Besar Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Aishah Rohani of Bendahara dynasty  - YAM Tunku Ali and YAM Tunku Zain Al-Abidin - embody the modern face of gahara royalty. Their upbringing reflects the delicate balance between preserving ancient traditions and embracing contemporary roles. Tunku Ali Redhauddin, the eldest son of Negeri Sembilan’s Tuanku Muhriz, is renowned for his impressive corporate achievements. A former strategy consultant at McKinsey & Co, Tunku Ali’s expertise spans strategic management and business transformation. His journey from global consultancy to serving on the boards of multiple public-listed companies showcases his ability to seamlessly navigate the worlds of tradition and modern enterprise. Tunku Zain Al-Abidin, known for his intellectual contributions and public service, demonstrates how gahara princes can bridge the gap between royal heritage and modern citizenship.

Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz

(Photo: Low Yen Yeing/ The Edge Malaysia)

But what makes a gahara prince or princess unique? The answer lies not just in their heritage, but in the extraordinary expectations placed upon them from birth. These royal children are raised with a deep consciousness of their dual heritage, trained in both the rigid protocols of court life and the sophisticated demands of modern leadership.

From their earliest years, gahara children are immersed in a world of careful preparation. They learn the intricate details of royal protocols, master multiple languages, and study both religious texts and contemporary governance. Their education is a careful blend of traditional wisdom and modern knowledge, preparing them for roles that bridge centuries of tradition with the demands of the present.

The son and daughter of the Group Chairman of PNB - YM Raja Tan Sri Arshad Raja Tun Sir Uda bear the distinction of gahara, carrying royal lineage from Selangor through their father and Negeri Sembilan through their mother. This unique dual heritage exemplifies the sacred tradition of gahara, where royal blood flows from both parental lines, reinforcing their connection to Malaysia’s esteemed royal legacy.

Foto: Instagram @jessarshad

"The responsibility of a gahara child is immense," shares a royal descendant of Negeri Sembilan who has observed three generations of Negeri Sembilan royalty. "They must embody the dignity of their bloodline while remaining accessible to their people. It's a delicate balance that requires both strength of character and humility."

The values instilled in gahara children are timeless: honor, duty, compassion, and wisdom. They are taught that their privileged birth comes with profound responsibilities to their people and their heritage. In an age of rapid change, these values serve as an anchor, connecting modern royalty to their ancestral roots.

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Today's gahara tradition faces new challenges in a rapidly modernizing world. Yet, it adapts while maintaining its essential character. Modern gahara princes and princesses receive international education, engage in philanthropy, and often pursue professional careers, all while upholding their royal duties.

The recent wedding of YAM Tengku Muhammad Iskandar and YM Tengku Natasya exemplifies how the tradition continues to evolve. Their union, steeped in ancient customs yet thoroughly modern in its celebration, shows how gahara traditions can be preserved while embracing contemporary sensibilities.

As Malaysia moves forward in the 21st century, the gahara tradition remains a living link to its royal heritage. It stands as a reminder that in the rush of progress, certain traditions deserve not just preservation, but celebration. For in the story of gahara, we find not just a tale of royal bloodlines, but a narrative of cultural resilience, timeless values, and the elegant bridge between past and present.

In the end, gahara is more than a tradition - it's a sacred trust passed down through generations, ensuring that Malay's royal heritage continues to shine brightly in the modern world, guided by those who carry in their veins the legacy of kings and queens from both sides of their family tree.