In the archipelago, too, the widespread use of
Malay and an acceptance of the Islamic faith
fostered continuing interaction between many
coastal trading centres. The travels of ancestors,
heroes, kings and religious teachers between
courts which shared basic cultural elements is a
recurring theme in local legends.
• With this kind of exchange it was possible for
some Malays to see themselves as part of a
culture which extended beyond narrow loyalties.
• the similarities which helped to draw many
Southeast Asian communities into a mutually
beneficial association and competition are trade
and control resources