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The Cape Malay people of the Western Cape are the direct descendants of political exiles imported from the East Indies as slaves by Dutch settlers who colonized the Western Cape over 300 years ago.This is a community where tradition is strong.
The Malays brought Islam with them to South Africa. Devout Muslims, they observe Islamic practices. You will see the men going to prayers at the call for prayer from the mosques.
The Malays settled in Cape Town at the foot of Lions Head, known today as Bo-Kaap. Cobble stoned streets and brightly painted Georgian style houses are characteristic of Bo-Kaap. Today you will find the majority of Malays living on the Cape Flats, other areas of the Western Cape and South Africa. This is a close knit community. In many instances the adage: ?it takes a community to raise a child?, still holds true. They are also a sharing community, eager to welcome visitors and share their world with those who are interested.
On New Years Day you will see the Cape Coons entertain the crowds along the streets of Cape Town. Dressed in their brightly coloured outfits with their faces painted, the coons dance and sing through the streets. This is a tradition started by the slaves. The end to slavery (1 December 1834) was greeted by the slaves with fireworks and street parades. The street parades are now held on New Years Day and on 2 January (known as Tweede Nuwejaar or Second New Year). This is the time of year the Malay choirs are also in full voice. Malay choirs parade through the streets of Cape Town on New Years Eve. Dressed smartly in their suits, they sing in the New Year as they walk along the streets.
One way to experience the Malay culture is through the food. Malay cooking and baking is delicious. Try the mutton curry ? slightly spicy with a sweet undertone - or a homemade coconut tart. Koeksisters (a kind of doughnut) is the breakfast of choice on a Sunday morning. It is not just about the food, Malays believe food is better when shared with others. |
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