The Contribution Of Abdullah Munsyi In Malay Literary Works

Malay modern literary research has never ceased to discuss the significance on the contribution of Munsyi Abdullah in the Malay world. Although he was conferred the title of Father of Modern Malay Literature, his name was always hailed for some controversial remarks. His translation of the Kitab lnjil and other missionary works received severe criticism and he was even noted for being the Western ally. Even some of the Malays who were adhere to chauvinistic attitude, would dismiss him as loyal Malay since he was noted using some awful words to describe the conditions of the Malays in his writings. Thus, looking thoroughly on his life history, this paper would like to examine his contributions in the Malay Literary works, of which he had contributed tremendously. This would also consult some discussion on his controversy among the scholars and his other significant works that should not be ignored by the history.