NTU History (HH3009)
The people and their origins
WHO ARE THE BOYANESE?
The Boyanese originate from the Island of Bawean, 120 km off the coast of East Java, Indonesia. The island has a current population of 65 000 people but a diaspora ten times larger. Boyanese are of Madurese origins but have developed their own culture over the years. The name "Boyan" is a misnomer, derived from the corrupt pronunciation of "Bawean" that was started by European colonials and has since remained.
(Below) A Boyanese Couple Getting Married
Photo Courtesy of The Baweanese Corner
From the island of Bawean to Singapore
BOYANESE MIGRATION
Boyanese migration is inherently cultural which is manifested in the ideal of Merantau.
Merantau translates to temporary human movement from place to place. The concept of mobility has always been part of the fluid social and economic living of the Malay world. People would leave their home to look for opportunities elsewhere. However, Boyanese Merantau was for survival, to earn enough to support themselves and their families back home.
Migration was also part of the colonial experience. The small size and isolated location of Bawean contributed to its economic neglect by the colonial and post-colonial state. Land rent and the additional taxes imposed by the colonial Dutch government made many leave the island. In addition, poverty forced many to leave the island.
Towards the end of 19th Century, Singapore had gained a reputation as a port of opportunity, especially with the demand for the Bouyan skill set. The Boyanese were well known for their horsemanship throughout the region. With the creation of businesses dealing in horses such as that started by former English jockey H. Adams, there was an increase in demand for Boyan labour. By the 20th Century, when auto cars became the preferred mode of transport, companies such as Adam's switched to dealing automobiles instead of horses, shifting the demand for Boyan labour demand, with most becoming drivers.
Religion also played an important role in the migration of Boyanese people. Some would work for several years in Singapore before amassing enough funds to make the voyage to Mecca.
WHO MIGRATED?
Statistics and the Shift in Migration Patterns
The first official documentation of Boyanese arrival was noted in the Population Census of 1849. A group of 763 Boyanese arrived more together with the Bugis. Through his study, the scholar Vredenbregt observed that the Boyanese preferred to travel in groups rather singles. Initial migration was predominately done by men as migration to Singapore was partly due to their tradition of Merantau, a rite of passage where young men left home in search of work opportunities overseas. It was only in the 20th Century, when migration became more permanent, more Boyanese women came to live in Singapore with their families. This corresponds to the steady increase in women over the years as seen in the colonial census.
(Above) Boyanese Bachelors in the 1950s
Photo Courtesy of The Baweanese Corner