Arab in Malaysia

Introduction / History

Arab traders have been going to Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia since before the rise of Islam. These early Arabs were Orthodox Christians. After the rise of Islam in their homeland, they went to various parts of the world to spread the Islamic religion, especially during the 7th and 8th centuries. Some of the Arabs who settled in Malaysia were incorporated into the royal family. They assimilated with the local population, and today the Arabs in Malaysia are usually blended with local people.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Arab Malaysians primarily live in the larger cities of Malaysia. They are generally well educated and very successful in various businesses. A small number have intermarried with the Malay people. Arab tourists are mostly Muslim, and they love to visit Malaysia. They prefer to live in their own countries and feel the Malays are inferior to them. In turn the Malays find the Arabs to be rude; however, they appreciate the money they spend in their country.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The historical link between Arabs and the Islamic religion is still very strong. It's hard to separate Arabs from the Islamic religion.

What Are Their Needs?

With a very small percent of Arabs in Malaysia following Christ, their need is for workers and easily available Christian resources.

Prayer Points

Pray for believers in Malaysia to make a concerted effort to reach the Muslim Arabs for Christ.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among the Muslim Arabs in Malaysia.
Pray for new Arab believers to be ambassadors for Christ to Malaysia's other Muslim population.

Text Source:   Joshua Project