8.1.08 - The Malacca Sultanate (1402–1511)

 
The Rise & Fall of The Malacca Empire (1400 - 1511)
Among the rules enforced were no one was allowed to wear gold no matter how rich one was without the consent of the ruler. Once bestowed such permission, he or she could wear the gold ornaments for life. To enter the palace, one must wear the mid-cloth (sampin) slanted, and a shoulder piece on the right shoulder. The kris must be worn on the front, unlike the Javanese the kris being worn on the back; in such a case one would be barred by the guards.

When the ruler held court, the Bendahara (PM), Penghulu Bendahari (Treasurer), Temenggong (Internal Affairs & Customs Minister) and other ministers, nobles and eunuchs would be seated in the top rung 'Seri Balai'. Princes and sons of nobles flanked the court, the Laksamana (Admiral) held the State's sword, whilst his men lined the approach bearing essentials of the court.
Should the ruler ride an elephant, the Temenggong would be afront and the Laksamana at rear. And when the ruler was carried around during an Eid Celebration or the like, the Treasurer and the Admiral would be the front bearers, right and left respectively, and at rear two ministers. At the head of the procession were the minnows and musicians, the guards and royal attendants.