First published in 1951, The Malay Magician employs historical and comparative data to unravel the different elements – pagan, Hindu and Muslim – in a complex system of Malay magic, as it exists in the Federation of Malay in general and more specifically as it exists in the Malay States of Kelantan, Perak, Pahang, Selangor and Negri Sembilan. Tied up with the concept of magic is the Malay magician, whose many functions and roles in the society are discussed in detail. This book will be of interest to students of anthropology, sociology, history and cultural studies.

This book offers an integrated study of the texts and images of illustrated Malay manuscripts on magic and divination from private and public collections in Malaysia, the UK and Indonesia. Containing some of the rare examples of Malay painting, these manuscripts provide direct evidence for the intercultural connections between the Malay region, other parts of Southeast Asia and the rest of the world. In this richly illustrated volume many images and texts are gathered for the first time, making this book essential reading for all those interested in the practice of magic and divination, and the history of Malay, Southeast Asian and Islamic manuscript art.