KUALA TERENGGANU, 24 June 2025 – The Sultan of Terengganu, Al-Wathiqu Billah Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, today officially launched the book Warkah Baginda Omar Sultan Terengganu IX (1839–1876), a compilation of private letters written by the 9th Sultan of Terengganu, Baginda Omar.

The launch ceremony, held at the Sultan Mizan Hall, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), also witnessed the declaration of the letter collection as a World Documentary Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), under the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP).

Also in attendance were Her Royal Highness Sultanah of Terengganu, Sultanah Nur Zahirah, and His Highness the Raja Muda (Crown Prince) of Terengganu, signifying the royal institution’s support for the preservation of national heritage documents.

The book was written by Associate Professor Dr. Riswadi Azmi, a researcher from UMT who conducted an in-depth study of 56 letters dated between 1848 and 1858, written in classical Jawi script.

These historically significant letters include official and diplomatic correspondence between Baginda Omar and various Malay states such as Johor, Pahang, Kelantan, and Riau-Lingga, as well as with foreign powers including Siam and the British.

Dr. Riswadi stated that the publication allows for deeper insight into the governance and diplomacy of the 19th-century Malay Sultanate.

“These letters showcase refined language, diplomatic astuteness, and Baginda Omar’s wisdom in administration and regional relations. They also reflect visionary leadership in strengthening maritime trade and diplomatic influence at the time.”

“Baginda Omar, who ruled Terengganu from 1839 to 1876, is remembered as a distinguished sultan who championed Islamic values, reinforced administrative institutions, and prioritized the people’s welfare. His letters are cultural treasures and vital historical evidence of civilization and national identity.”

The Private Letter Collection of Baginda Omar was first recognized as a National Heritage in 2010 before receiving international recognition by UNESCO on 8 May 2024 during a conference in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

This acknowledgement further highlights the role of Malaysia, particularly Terengganu, as the regional leader in preserving world-class intellectual and historical documents.

Published by:

Corporate Communications Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu