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The Arab Journey.

During the Social Studies class in primary school, we learn that most of the famous Arab families such as the Aljunied, Alsagoff, Alkaff, etc., had migrated to Singapore from Java, Indonesia. I had always been puzzled about their origin. Ain't Arabs supposed to be people from the Middle East or something?

Today, the puzzle was unraveled. I visited the exhibition "Rihlah" at the National Libray Building level 10. "Rihlah" is the Arabic word for journey.

The Arabs had originated from Hadhramuat, in modern-day Yemen. Between the 7th and 9th centuries, the Hadhramis travelled overseas, to East Africa, India, and Southeast Asia, as traders and religious leaders. Many settled in Java, Madura, Batavia (modern day Jakarta), and spread Islam to the region. With the opening of Singapore as a trading port, many migrated to Singapore from there.

The exhibition tells the stories of their journeys to this region, and the exchange of their culture. It will be on till 10 October, with guided tours beginning on 8 May. If you are around the area you may want to pop in for a short visit.

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