Proto-Malay refers to the early form of the Malay language, which is part of the Austronesian language family. It is believed to have been spoken by the ancestors of the modern Malay people in the region of Southeast Asia. This language served as a foundation for the development of various Malay dialects and languages, including Indonesian and Malay. The Proto-Malay language is thought to have emerged around 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. Linguists study its features to understand the evolution of the Malay languages and their connections to other Austronesian languages. This research helps trace the migration and cultural exchanges among the peoples of Maritime Southeast Asia.