Hang Jebat Mausoleum is a burial ground along Jalan Kampung Kuli in Malacca dedicated to the legendary warrior Hang Jebat. Also known as Makam Hang Jebat, the crypt clearly predates the 1512 Portuguese occupation, but its exact date of construction (as well as its authenticity) remains a mystery.
The well-maintained grave is an Acehnese-style tomb usually used to mark the burial grounds of sultans and high-ranking ministers. Jawi writings above the front entrance of the crypt mark it as the ‘actual’ burial ground of Hang Jebat: but there is another crypt in Terendak Camp, an army base northwest of the state billed as Hang Jebat’s final resting place as well.
History of Hang Jebat Mausoleum
Hang Jebat’s famous words ‘Raja adil raja disembah, raja zalim raja disanggah’ (a fair king is a king to obey, a cruel king is a king to fight against), defined his character, life and death.
According to the Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals), Hang Jebat was a high ranking Malay warrior who was part of a legendary quintet that included Hang Tuah, Hang Kasturi, Hang Lekiu and Hang Lekir. He defied the Sultan when fellow warrior and sworn brother, Hang Tuah was falsely accused of seducing the Sultan's favourite dayang (consort).
