Kingdoms in Southeast Asia

Funan
Considered the earliest kingdom in Southeast Asia (before 4th century). According to Coedes it was the first Indianized state in the region. Situated at the southern part of presentday Vietnam since 1st century. Important kingdom and trading center through the port at Oc-Eo.

People of Khmer origin involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing. Padi was grown and served as staple. System of governance heavily influenced by Hindu culture and King supreme in all matters. Trading carried out with China, India, West Asia and other states in the region.

Highly maritime encouraged shipbuilding industry for trading purposes. Many vassal states paid tribute to Funan. In early 6th century Funan declined through internal strife and fighting among princes. Frequently attacked by vassal states and overran by Chenla in 550 AD.

Srivijaya
A Malay kingdom situated In Palembang, Sumatera. Established at the end of the 6th century. King supreme in all matters. Administration divided into royal administration, royal affairs, trade, law and order, and taxes.

At its height between 8th and 11th century. Smaller kingdoms conquered to create the Srivijayan empire the first Malay empire in the archipelago. Conquered states include Ligor, Malay Peninsular, East Sumatera, and North Borneo. Three important ports Old Kedah, Jambi, and Palembang also fell to Srivijaya.

Also dominated several smaller ports in the Straits of Melaka, Sunda Straits, parts of Java and others in South China Sea. Neglect agriculture and dependent on imported food. When attacked the lack of food was obvious. Maintained good relationship with China and India.

Relationship with China for trading purposes. Close to India due to similarity in religion and cultural influences (Indianized state). Declined after attack by Raja Chola from India in the 11th century. Beginning 14th century it ceased to exist but continuity of the kingdom appeared in Melaka established by Parameswara.

Langkasuka
Situated in the north-east of the Malay Peninsular. Similar to other kingdoms in the region it was heavily influenced by Hindu culture. Kings were primarily Hindus or Buddhists. Founded around 2nd century.

Due to its strategic position midway between China and India it became an important port of call. Trade carried out with China, India, Funan, and West Asia. In the 3rd century it was attacked by Funan declined in importance.

Old Kedah
Kingdom of Old Kedah came into being in the 5th century and continued to flourish till the 14th century. Centered around Bujang Valley. Two primary ports Kampung Sungai Emas (5th to 10th century) and Pengkalan Bujang (10th to 14th century).

Malay population with Hindu or Buddhist faith. Highly dependent on trade merchants from India, China and West Asia. Close relationship with India cultural influences.

SOUTHEAST ASIAN CULTURE

The kingdoms in the region heavily influenced by Indian and Chinese cultures. Indian influence far greater than Chinese. Indians were here earlier than the Chinese due to trade. Brahmin priests were invited to the courts.

All spheres of life dominated by Hindu culture. Monuments, language, governance, kings, literature etc. Sanskrit words bahasa, bumi, permaisuri, dosa, duka, sengsara, manusia, dewa, rupa, kalpa etc. Therefore, as termed by Coedes the Indianized states of Southeast Asia.

The coming of Islam in the 14th and 15th century changed the situation food especially. Islam began to dominate the way of life of the Malays in the region.