Malay chess revival: Researcher rescues nearly extinct traditional game

After six years of research across Southeast Asia, Yusof has revived forgotten Malay chess variants

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) — While modern chess enjoys global prominence, the Malay community once had its own strategic board games—now largely forgotten.

A Malaysian researcher has spent years tracing their history and bringing them back to life.

Dr Mohd Hasanuddin Mohd Yusof, 43, dedicated six years to researching traditional Malay chess across Indonesia, Brunei, and the southern Philippines, uncovering at least 16 variants, including Catur Gajah (Elephant Chess), Catur Harimau (Tiger Chess), Catur Perang (War Chess), and Catur Raja (King Chess).

“In Catur Harimau and Catur Perang, I interviewed elderly villagers in Aceh and West Sumatra who still play these games,” he said. “I also found a written record preserved by a member of the Malaysian Historical Society in Negri Sembilan, detailing the rules of these chess variants.”

Malay chess, once widely played across the region, shares cultural roots with other Malay traditions, such as the keris (dagger) and silat (martial arts). However, according to Hasanuddin, knowledge of the game has nearly disappeared.

He emphasised that these traditional games were designed to enhance strategic thinking, much like intricate carvings and motifs found in Malay architecture, weaponry, and boat-making.

Unlike modern chess, Malay chess is faster-paced and more accessible, allowing even young children to learn the game.

“Another important aspect is that Malay chess lacks religious symbols, animal figurines, or depictions of living beings—making it culturally appropriate for Malay Muslims,” he added.

Hasanuddin’s revival of these long-lost games marks an effort to preserve a crucial part of Malay heritage, ensuring that the centuries-old tradition of Malay chess does not fade into obscurity.