1727 Valentijn Map of Malaysia and Sumatra (Singapore)

This is a superb example of Francois Valentijn's 1726 map of Malaya (Malaysia and Singapore) and Sumatra. This is the earliest published map to present a sophisticated treatment of Malaya and Sumatra, and the model upon which most subsequent maps through the late 18th century were based. It is, moreover, one of the earliest maps to expound upon the indigenous polities of Malaya.

A Closer Look

Oriented to the east, Valentijn's map covers from the Island of Junsalan (Penang / Prince of Wales Island / Pulu Pinang) south as far as the Straits of Sunda and west to Atsjien (Banda Aceh) at the western tip of Sumatra. It extends eastwards to the Anambas Islands and the Bangka-Belitung Islands. The cartographer identifies various polities as well as numerous coastal settlements and cities. Topography is rendered in profile with hydrographic content present in the Strait of Malacca. Valentijn identifies seven separate kingdoms within the peninsula.

Historical Context

The presentation thus represents a major change in Malayan politics following the Dutch capture of Portuguese Malacca in 1606. The Dutch forged a peaceful arrangement with the Sultan of Johor, leading to peace and prosperity in the region. This prosperity, combined with the decline of the Sunnite of Aceh in northern Sumatra, allowed for the rapid development and expansion of smaller polities throughout the peninsula, including Johor, Perak, Pahang, Patani, Kedah, and Ligor - the latter two of which, as noted here, fell under the sway of Siam. Valentijn, moreover, has recorded some 80 place names in Malaya alone and far more in Sumatra, surpassing all predecessor maps.

Publication History and Census

This map was issued in Amsterdam in Francois Valentijn's 1726 Oud en nieuw Oost-Indien. It was published by Joannes van Braam and Gerard onder de Linden, whose names appear on the imprint. Today this important map is very scarce.