Laksamana Cheng Hoo Jambi
Laksamana Cheng Ho Jambi, also known as 'Size Hung-Chue', is a legendary figure in Chinese and Indonesian history. He was a sixteenth century Indonesian trader and explorer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest mariners of his time.
Although the exact origin of Laksamama Cheng Ho Jambi is not known, he is believed to have been born in China during the Ming Dynasty. He was a Muslim and began his career as an eunuch servant. He was appointed to the imperial court as a general in the Chinese Navy by the Yongle Emperor.
In 1414, Laksamama Cheng Ho Jambi was given command of a vast fleet of Chinese ships and commanded seven voyages. He visited many parts of South and Southeast Asia, as far south as Malacca and as far west as the Gulf of Fars, which is now in Iran. On his voyages, he traded extensively, brought back foreign goods to China, and built good relations between China and the countries he visited.
In 1434, he set out on his seventh and last voyage. After months of sailing, his ship was wrecked off the coast of Java, and Cheng Ho was never seen again. He is remembered for his voyages as one of history's great navigators and for his role in developing stronger ties between China and the nations he visited.
In Jambi itself, Cheng Ho is remembered as a hero and is revered by local Southeast Asians. A monument to him was built in Jambi in the 16th century. In 1985, a bronze statue depicting him was unveiled in the city.
Every August, Jambi celebrates a month-long festival to commemorate Laksamma Cheng Ho Jambi's legacy. The festival includes various activities, such as art installations, music performances, traditional dances, food stalls, talks and forums, parades, and the illumination of the monument. This festival serves as a reminder to Malaysians of the impact Laksamana Cheng Ho Jambi had on their land and their culture.