Traditional Malay Literature encompasses a rich body of work that reflects the culture, values, and beliefs of the Malay people. It includes various forms such as poetry, prose, and folklore, often passed down orally before being written. Notable genres include hikayat (epic tales), syair (poetry), and pantun (quatrains), which explore themes of love, heroism, and morality. The literature often features historical figures and events, intertwining mythology with reality. Prominent works include the Hikayat Hang Tuah, which tells the story of a legendary warrior, and the Sejarah Melayu, a historical chronicle that highlights the Malay sultanates. These texts serve as important cultural artifacts, preserving the Malay identity.