Malay in Malaysia

Malay
Photo Source:  Copyrighted © 2024
Faiz Zaki - Shutterstock  All rights reserved.  Used with permission
Map Source:  People Group location: IMB / Joshua Project. Map geography: ESRI / GMI. Map design: Joshua Project.
People Name: Malay
Country: Malaysia
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 13,600,000
World Population: 18,079,300
Primary Language: Malay
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 0.10 %
Evangelicals: 0.08 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Malay
Affinity Bloc: Malay Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

In Malaysia, people are classified as Malay by the federal constitution if they speak their national language, Bahasa Malaysia, practice Malay customs, and are Muslim. The Malay people are seen in all levels of Malaysian society. There are urban Malays who are well educated and hold white collar or government positions. There are also rural Malays who occupy jobs such as farming, trading, logging and fishing. The Malays need the opportunity to hear that Jesus is the only way to salvation. The Malay people embrace the Islamic religious system yet engage in spiritual compromises. Although Islam forbids the use of a shaman or witch doctor, many Malays seek their services when experiencing difficult situations.

Ministry Obstacles

Currently, there are harsh laws against telling Malay Muslims about Christ. There are Christians in Malaysia, but the Malay Muslim community regards evangelism as a serious threat.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray that Christians living in Malaysia would share the gospel with Malays, no matter the cost. Pray that each Malay person would have the opportunity to hear the good news in a culturally understandable way. Pray that Malay Bibles would be made available and reach seeking Malays. Ask the Lord to raise up Malay disciples who will disciple others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project