Parameswara Converts to Islam and Becomes Sultan Iskandar Shah
| Political | Global Trade |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
4 min read
Parameswara, a Hindu prince from Palembang, established the city of Malacca, regarded as a significant trading hub in Southeast Asia. To bolster Malacca's standing and secure alliances, Parameswara converted to Islam and adopted the name Sultan Iskandar Shah. This change marked a pivotal transformation for the region.
Islam played a crucial role in fostering trade relations, as it was embraced by various key trading partners, including Arabs, Indians, and Chinese Muslims. As a result, Malacca became part of the vast Muslim trading network, enhancing its appeal as a maritime trade center. The conversion also helped consolidate power internally, unifying diverse groups under a shared religious identity.
Sultan Iskandar Shah's decision had enduring impacts on the cultural and religious landscape of the Malay Peninsula. The spread of Islam in the region led to significant societal shifts, influencing governance, laws, and daily practices. Malacca thrived under his leadership, becoming a melting pot of various cultures and a beacon for Islamic scholars and traders.
The conversion also laid the groundwork for future sultanates in the Malay Peninsula, establishing a tradition of Muslim leadership that persisted through the centuries. The prominence of Islam in the region, initiated by Sultan Iskandar Shah's conversion, continues to influence the social and political fabric of modern Malaysia.
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Primary Reference: Malacca Sultanate - Wikipedia

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