A structured administration
The Malacca Sultanate was governed through a clear hierarchy. The Sultan stood at the top, supported by a group of senior nobles often called the Pembesar Berempat (four chief ministers). Each held a distinct responsibility, allowing the state to be administered efficiently.
| Official | Main role |
|---|---|
| Bendahara | Chief minister; the ruler's closest adviser, like a prime minister |
| Penghulu Bendahari | Treasurer; managed state finances and revenue |
| Temenggung | Chief of security, police and justice |
| Laksamana | Admiral; commander of the navy and fleet |
Key idea
Malacca's strength lay in dividing duties among skilled officials under the Sultan, supported by written laws that applied on land and at sea.
A written legal system
Justice rested on two important codes. The Hukum Kanun Melaka (Malacca land law) covered crime, family matters, trade and the duties of subjects. The Undang-Undang Laut Melaka (Malacca maritime law) regulated shipping, the authority of the ship's captain (nakhoda) and conduct at sea. Because Malacca was a great trading port, clear rules protected merchants and encouraged commerce.
Why the system was admired
The blend of a capable ruler, specialised ministers and written law made Malacca stable, prosperous and attractive to traders from across Asia. Later Malay states such as Johor inherited this administrative model.
Remember
- The four chief ministers: Bendahara, Penghulu Bendahari, Temenggung, Laksamana.
- Two law codes: Hukum Kanun Melaka (land) and Undang-Undang Laut Melaka (sea).
- The Bendahara acted much like a prime minister.