Singapore intends to commemorate (and by extension celebrate) the bicentennial anniversary of colonial rule. As of 2019, it would have been 200 years since the British landed on our shores and strongarmed the local rulers to sign an unjust treaty. The prime minister has stated that it is not a time to celebrate, but a time to reflect on our history. It is no question that colonialism has brought nothing but harm around the world and there are present-day efforts to decolonize our actions, policies, and even thoughts. And how do you reflect when the state constantly places prestige, extravagance and credibility to even just the name “Raffles”?
Ratu Safiatuddin Tajul Alam, Ratu Nurul Alam Naqiatuddin Syah, Ratu Inayat Zaqiatuddin Syah, Ratu Kamalat Syah.
These were the names of the Aceh’s four queens who ruled for almost 60 years.