ALL TAUSUG

Visit for a Kaja

2012-01-24T01:02:00.009+08:00

Last two days I had visitors from Kuala Lumpur went to my house to look for additional information about Duwaa Kaja. I contacted these persons few months ago and as an impression I really salute this group for having the guts to feature this antiquated practice of the Buranun-Sharif of Sulu Darul Islam.

In the first place, once we talk about this culture many would come to think that it is a practice of the tribe “Tausug”. But that reflex idea stands unaccepted once we begin to throw a question. If the Tausug is really a tribe of Sulu [Jolo] what is the meaning of ethnic Buranun then? In fact, Buranun and Sharif are the ethnics in Sulu who do the pagduwaa Kaja. Hence, enable to clear some confusion Buranun and Sharif [Arab] ethnics have to be highlighted as the withstanders and doers of this adat. It is misunderstood by some that it is the Tausug tribe who practice the Kaja because the people of Sulu used to call themselves as Tausug when asked about their identity. But the reality if someone says ‘I’m a Tausug, it means he is referring to his Identity as people living in Sulu not as his tribe. It is just the same if you are from Malaysia the Tausug will call you “Tau Malaysia". But Malaysia doesn’t represent your ethnic affiliation only a place where you belong.

The visitors came to my house were composed of Buranun-Sharif from Tapul, Siasi, Parang of Sulu Darul Islam and Kedah of Malaysia. The Malay brother is also an Ahlul Bayt belongs to Wan from Kedah. He said, their family is a descendant of Daeng who arrived to Kedah from Indonesia in the past.

Brother Wan Mukhriz is a professional cameraman who works with National TV of Malaysia. Currently, he is finishing their short movie entitled “ISM”.

He attracted with project duwaa Kaja through the inspiration of his partner Julia, a Buranun-Sharif, who are still studying in ASWARA Kuala Lumpur. This cultured young woman did finish her thesis on Kaja few years back and now she is collaborating with the cameraman to realize this project.

A place where to do Duwaa Kaja

Why do most Tausug do not anymore practicing duwaa Kaja, asked Wan Mukhriz? Is it because they have no adequate knowledge about it or what?

Some modern Buranun and Sharif today were not anymore practicing this adat for some reasons: firstly, they were being lured to puritanical thought through the sermons of Najdis propagators that to practice this adat would be committing a biggest sin “Polytheism”. According to them to beseech other than Allah would be creating partner to Him. Secondly, based from the first reason there are only few from the withstanders of Duwaa Kaja to defend it academically based from the consensus of the Ahlu Sunna scholars which emanated from the parameters of Islam – Qur’an and Hadith. Hence, adequate information about Kaja is lacking.

Before I came here, said Wan Mukhriz, I had consulted IKIM [Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia] for the status of the duwaa Kaja in Islam. They answered me to go on, he added.

Pagduwaa Kaja categorically fall on the concept of Tawassul and Istigatha. These practices had been unanimously agreed by most Sunni scholars in the past and at present. But today, even the practice had been approved by majority of the scholars to some it is not. Rather, most of the time even the scholars who visited the graves would be labelled grave worshippers by some narrowed individuals.

If Allah permits the Pagduwaa Kaja will be broadcasted internationally, through the guidance of FINAS Malaysia.

DARUL ISLAM PAMARINTA HULING JAMAN?

2012-01-10T16:38:00.001+08:00

In kahalan sin dunya bihaun misan iyanun ha laum tuud kahalu biluhan. Apabila naman in manusiya’ madtu mari simisilawak sin kaadilan, kalimayahan iban kasajahitraan hambuuk na tanda’ manunjuki in manusiya’ ha jaman ini mabaya’ na tuud kimita iban mabuhi’ ha laum sin pamarinta adil, limaya, iban sajahitra’?

Misan pa in kaawnan sin kanukaraan pulitik ha dunya nagnanapi ha himumungan nila sagawa’ bang ta tuud dungdungan marayaw in pagginggung sin satiyap raayat nila mamarahi na mamaytai in pamarinta tiyatanggung nila “Democracy” wala’ na nakabutang ha ran marayaw iban di’ da tuud makapauntayaw pa katan.

Tausug Citizens nanawag-tawag daing pa sin tahun 2005

In katan iyaangut sin manga simisilawak di’ ta kabaakan ha unu-unu papanaw atawa aturan pamarinta mapuas daing ha Islam. Sambat da sin hambuuk Jipun balakkal “Tuput da Islam in makasalamat sin kasusahan sin dunya bihaun”. Mayta’ baha’ yadtu subay Islam unu in awn ha Islam? Mayta’ wayruun baha’ dimagbus in pamarinta sin Islam sin nakalabay masa hakahula’-hulaan sin Muslim?

Islam biyadiin?

Laung sin manga sila magtatali’ in dunya bihaun agad in katan ha liyukupan niya nasakup sin pamarinta Lidjal. Tumagna’ daing hapag pulitik, pagusaha, kabuhi’ ha laum kawman, pagagama, iban sin kaibanan pa mahang in wala’ nasakup sin papanaw sin Yahudi amun nahinang sikilima sin lidjal la’natullah ha dunya.

Mayta’ nakaagad sambil pag-agama? Wala’ baha’ nakaagad sambil Islam siyuran sin kulina kapandayan sin Lidjal?

Ha pangatud sin nagsulat, in agama Islam sutsi iban miyulliya sin Tuhan Assa. Adapun in nasud sin lidjal bukun Islam sagawa’ amun manga Muslim. Muslim amun di’ mabaya’ magparagbus sin hukum sin Tuhan, Muslim amun bukun tubus in pangandul ha kakawasahan sin Tuhan. Mabuga’ pa sila pa Milikan iban Yahudi daing pa Allah. Muslim amun pinigun niya in panghindu’ agama iban sin pangadji’ dunya. Ha pangatud nila in duwa ilmu yaun di’ makajari papaglamurun, malaingkan in duwa pangadji’ yaun hambuuk da in giyuwaan daing da Ilmu’ sin Mahasutsi Allah.

In panghindu’ sin Islam hakatiluagan niya wala’ dimagbus ha dunya bihaun. Misan pa in hula’ Arab di’ da makadaawa naparagbus nila in pamarinta Islam hakaluagan niya. Suntu’ niya, in hula’ Muslim nasabbut amupa in imiban ha satru’ munu’ hapagkahi niya hangka agama. In hula Muslim nasabbut amupa in tumuku hapagpasaplag sin unudsiyn bukun syariah biya’ na sin US Dollar iban sin kaibanan siyn katas amun sambat da hi Shaykh Dr. Umar Vadillo unudsiyn mangdahi pahikapag riba sin ummat Islam.

Hakahawpuan niya in Darul Islam amuna in pamarinta iyaangut sin kamatauran Muslimin iban sin kaibanan siyulagan bukun Islam. Mayta’ unu in awn ha Darul Islam? In hula’ Darul Islam hangkan siya tiyatagaran sabab sin lingkat iban dayaw sin panghindu’ ha laum sin Islam amun naparagbus na ha jaman sin junjungan Nabi Muhammad SAW ha hula’ Madina. In hula’ Darul Islam, hula’ amun di’ sumujud pa kahandak sin hula’ makusug nagdara pamaham Democracy [pamaham di’ kumila in ukumsakup sin pamarinta yadtu ha Tuhan]. Hula’ amun di’ magad ha aturan biyaktul sin “Tumpukan sin manga bangsa Nagtibuuk” [UN]. In hula’ Darul Islam in pamarinta niya bukun mamissuku’ ha raayat iban magpalangka ha manga siyulagan manusiya’ biya’ sin jimatu ha dunya bihaun. In hula’ Darul Islam pamarinta magpasaplag sin muamalat pa raayat iban pa ummah.

In Darul Islam pagbahasahun bukun hangka bahagi’ hadja sin panghindu’ sin Islam in agarun sin tau naghuhula’ ha laum niya adapun katiluagan pamandu’ sin agama. Amun in pamaham sin nakura’ iban sin raayat natibuuk ha Katunggal sin Mahasutsi Allah. Amun in nakura’ bukun lagguun karna’ sin daya adapun lagguun sin raayat sabab sin pagka juhud niya pa Tuhan iban pagtaat ha katan sarah sin agama iban sin hula’. In Nakura’ iban sin raayat sibu’ ha mata sin Sarah hisiyu-siyu in makarusa subay hukumun ha paghuhukuman misan in kaawnan niya puntukan nakura’ sin hula’.

In hula Darul Islam ukab pa katan sagawa’ bukun da isab nagmaksuri bat in katan makapagdul baya’ sin hinangun ha laum labi luba’ na in manga hinang piyanglangan sin Islam. In katan hibutang ha hikatup kaniya.

In Darul Islam hambuuk pamarinta maluag in sakup niya wala’ siya nabahagi’ sin “territory” biya’ sin kiyasakupan natu’ bihaun. Sambat da hi Abdalghany Aoueskhanov "...in passport nila tuput da kalima La Ilaha Illa Allah Muhammadur Rasulullah".

Ha mahuli niya, asubuhun natu’ in baran natu’ manga Bangsa Tausug tupun na baha’ kitaniyu tumanggung sin salaggu-laggu’ amanat sin Tuhan ini? Sabab mabaya’ kitaniyu iban sin di’ in hula’ Sultaniyyah sin Sulu Darul Islam napi’ na sin Tuhan hinangun guwaan magbalik sin pamarinta Islam di ha babaw dunya magtup iban sin piyaguwa’ hi Shaykh Dr. Umar Vadillo bahawa in Sulu Darul Islam amuna in “Panagnaan hula’ Islam gimuwa’ ha jaman ini”.

Ipusan tanaa ri in lapal kabtangan in unu-unu katan yadtu ha Tuhan. In kitaniyu Iypun Niya iban kiyaamanatan Niya magda sin amanat ka Islam wayruun da buli rapat daing sin subay tuud mamawgbugi ha diyaakan niya iban lumayu’ daing ha piyanglangan Niya. Bakun natu’ in daraugan sin Bangsa, hula’ iban agama sin panginduwaa Kaniya bangman hapagbalik sin pamarinta sin Sulu Darul Islam ini sumanyang na in nasigpit, muntul na in bingkuk iban magkasi iban lasa na in manga nagsasagga’. Ameen,

In daraugan yadtu ha Allah SWT!

Marang Season

2011-12-20T21:09:00.004+08:00

Yesterday I went off to the small market in our community to buy food exclusively for lunch. At that time there were two tropical fruits sold, Durian and Marang. I went to the stall and tried to choose which Marang contains plenty of good flesh. After the Asar prayer I bought one Marang and together we ate with my half lemon. Honestly, one piece could not satiate our longing for it. Today after launch I bought again to really feel the toothsomeness of this seasonal fruit.

Marang is called in Malay as Buah Terap. It is a tropical fruit that has its own singularity. Perhaps this fruit grow only in Likusantara [Southeast Asia] area.

I remember when I was in Zamboanga City I once met a Jewish-American who was a visitor of our company. That time was fruit season and that fellow had able to eat Marang we found in a renowned hotel in town. “This is a strange fruit but it’s delicious”, he said. In America, according to him, I didn’t see this sort of fruit in the market.

When I was in Basilan I remember my grandmother brought us 4 pieces of Marang from the market for just 20 pisos. A bunch of four pieces of marang is called a ganta or gantang. If you have a tied of dried fish to be brought to the market you could exchange it with a gantang of Marang.

Marang was also used by the Tausug to name their community. In Indanan, Sulu there is a place called Marang. This place had been bombarded by the Philippine Military during hari raya edil fitri 2009.

The unripe Marang is used to cook by the Tausug with coconut milk with match dried fish. This cuisine named Giyataan Marang. And the Marang seed would be roasted and pounded later after it exposes in the sun for a day. If you happen to eat marang try not to throw the marang seeds for it can give you another yummy taste.

Enjoy this fruit while still available.

The Sermon

2011-12-16T13:40:00.004+08:00

I was in Buansa, Indanan, Sulu Darul Islam during hari raya eidil fitri and eidil adha 2010. Culturally, I really had felt the ambience of being in a Tausug homeland when the hatib [Sermon reader] delivered melodic Eid’s sermon taken from purely Arabic language note. The note believed to be archaic used to read by various hatib when the Sultanate government still lively extant. Currently, only in some parts of Sulu Darul Islam where this practice adopted particularly to them who were still valuing the noesis shared by sufi masters in this island country.

There are various reasons why the Tausug clings to this mode of conveying message during Friday despite of some changes in religious practices of the Muslim. Below are my observations on the topic.

1. Firstly, the old folks in Sulu Darul Islam believed the sermon to be delivered must not be added with local language because it is how the previous generations of Muslims conveyed in the pulpits.

2. Secondly, during Friday and Eid prayer it is interdict for a hatib to attack, defame, and mock the congregation or individual. Thus if to read or convey message in purely Arabic nobody would be hurt, defamed or attacked.

3. Thirdly, the Tausug old folks explained the message of the Khutba to some Muslims right after the congregation prayer done.

The importance of sermon on Friday prayer to majority Sunni scholars regarded as the equivalent of two units [rakaat] of obligatory prayers. It is the reason during Friday the Zuhur prayer reduced into two units of prayer instead of four. Withal, the virtue can be gained from the sermon should at least gibe the rewards of two rakaat of Zuhur prayer.

According to Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani in his exposition on “The Language of the Friday Khutbah” on his commentary of the verse below that Friday khutba is part of the worship rather than the normal lecture. [pp. 10]

“O! believers,when there is a call for Salah on Friday, rush for the Dhikr of Allah and leave trade. (al-Jumu'ah:9)

The final and glorious Prophet Muhammad SAW (May Allah always uplift his status) and his rightly guided caliphs down to the four schools of thoughts did not deliver Friday sermon in any local languages even though most of the locals did not understand the kernel of the message (Read Mufti Usmani articles for further details).

On the above light we can arrive to a conclusion that the practice of the Tausug delivering khutba in purely Arabic is in conformity with Prophet Muhammad deed.

The conveyance of Islamic message during Friday and Eid into local languages emanated from the Rabitat al-Alam Al-Islami when they issued a fatwa in Ramadhan 1975 called “ Fatwas of Muslim World Unity” they said: “It is fard for women to perform the salât of Jum’a. The Khutba of Jum’a and ’Iyd can be delivered in the native language of every country.” [Sunnipath, pp. 77] The fatwa according to the author of sunni path is evidently a form of innovation.

The melodic chanting or Lugu of the verses is a traditional form of valuing and delivering the message of Islam artistically without offending anyone.

Thanks Allah the Tausug still carrying out this practice if not the remnants of Muslims in the past in this part of the world would be difficult to trace.

May Allah give me more time to listen to the melodic khutba of the Tausug.

The World in the 21st Century

2011-12-05T01:18:00.005+08:00

Every day we read, hear and witness the unremitting problems of earth citizens appeared in multimedia. A person who easily gives up witnessing any form of atrocities would free themselves by doing any act which can make them forget what was happening in their surroundings. Some of them might come to think that the malady is a mere nature of human.

The known cause to the problem can be summed up as originated from greed, selfish, and ego. These low qualities are part of being a human. Even those pious persons are not free from having these traits prior they become Allah’s-conscious individuals.

The history of humankind throughout history was marked with the war of positive and negative traits of men. The first scenario happened on earth was during the time of Prophet Adam when Cain and Abel had quarrelled for their twin sisters. It was there the history of conflicts emanated.

Most of the time people argufy because of worldly things. We are even witnessing the shedding of blood anywhere and sacrificing the lives of innocence civilians enable just to defend the ego and interest of a group and a country.

The superpower nation is oppressing the weaker one by any means. Every country particularly those have linked to the superpower nation coined their religious ideology and labelling other countries that don’t adhere to them as heretics thus have no place in the belief they are embracing. They dare to destroy shrines of the pious and called the people visiting the grave as “grave worshippers” even the one who paid visits are pious and scholars. They masked themselves with faith but their attitudes are of the devil.

This is how the people of the 21^st century behaving. If yesterday, the ancestors of every defender in their land fought with interloper right at the shore and wharf of their country, today not anymore. Defenders are everywhere searching for survival while their enemies were in their countries to do what is beneficial to them. For in their country only poverty, corruption and injustices were left.

Yesteryears the ancestors of every freedom defender were free to move in their land, today not anymore, because the system invented by the superpower country were installed anywhere to easily control and identify the wave of people come and go out of the immigration desk. If you are entering a country without legal document you will be imprisoned or simply calling you “Illegal Immigrants” and you will receive at the end not paper diploma but marked of the hit of rattan on the buttock prior to be sent home.

If you tell them of your right, they won’t listen to you. If you fight for your right they will label you as terrorist. Because once they entertain you, their interest will be stopped.

This is indeed the era of mercilessness. Only few people in today’s world giving charity secretly. Most of the leaders today are giving charity not as to do their duty but to gain popularity out of it. In some countries for example if the government giving garbage truck for public use all of the leaders’ names will be printed on that truck, so that these leaders will be re-elected next election.

One day the world and all humankind will be perished. We can be witnessing in the hereafter how the cruel men be punished for their actions towards their fellow. Don't worry "The Oppressed".

Suppose the leaders of today’s world are not like this so that everyone can enjoy the freedom which Allah had given to them!

May Allah save us from the cruelty of this world and punishment in the hereafter.

Good option for your Identity

2011-12-04T01:57:00.001+08:00

Some say don’t be over focusing with your race otherwise you’ll become ethnocentric. I say, if being ethnocentric would become a means for Tausug race not to be forever entombed, why shouldn't I?

I remember when I was in college, I was totally blind of my Identity – I’m sure not only me then. Honestly, I felt uneasy to be called Filipino and had little proud to be called Moro. However, my inner sight felt satisfied when Sulu ethnics found their long buried identity – the Tausug.

I’m sure many Filipino out there particularly those living in Sulu and Mindanao experience the same identity crisis. Luckily, these days the Sultanate of Sulu had been resurrected to make vague things clear. If only not, everyone who are clamouring for real identity would be left in sidewalk searching for the answer to their doubts.

Now we have two options to tick. Should you wish to apply your real identity mark your paper with TAUSUG citizenship if you are from Sulu Archipelago. But if you are happy of being a citizen of an Imagine nation and proud to be called Filipino, then stay where you are, because to decide for our nationality is a basic human right as stipulated in the UN charter.

However, if you are a Filipino don’t ever dream to leave in Sulu Darul Islam territory once the De facto government of the Sultanate is fully operating even your belief would say that you are a Tausug – unless you are a Filipino diplomats.

By now the Sulu people who are still acting deaf and dumb to this reality should reconsider their decision to choose their identity. We knew the survival of Filipino identity in Sulu nowadays it’s only because of money. Even a governor in ARMM said if SSDI have enough money to sustain its government he is more than willing to join and support the Sultanate government.

The Philippine government knew this reality. But they are still working very hard not to let Sulu pull up stakes from the Philippines. What is the guarantee? If Malacanang people would adhere loyally to the International law there’s no other way to choose than to let their strivers to withdraw from Sulu Darul Islam without any trouble that would bring discommode to the people of Sulu Darul Islam and the Philippines.

Identity is important. Without it you are just like a bird has no left feather to flap in the wide sky.

Think about it fellow Tausug!

e-Tabuh open for Business

2011-12-03T19:04:00.002+08:00

Tausug social world is also like other races in the world having their respective formal attires and food which makes them a distinct race and a civilized earth constituents. The Tausug attires marked the long survived hegemony of Islamic empire in the Island country of the Sulu Darul Islam.

The attires of the Tausug cannot be replaced with a new fashion trend imported from other cultures. Most especially during important occasion i.e. wedding and other social events because the Tausug costumes are beautiful yet culturally approved and their designs fitted in any social functions and programs.

The uniqueness of Tausug costumes does not only give satisfaction to its wearer but traditionally the persons could not be outcast most likely if one attends intercultural program.

Design: Yazir Rajim

The design of Tausug costume complies with the Muslim code of dressing. We can see it in the costume such as Sawwal, Sablay, Batawi, Lapi’, Birinu and others. The design of Sawwal is loose with wide hole on its bottom enable for a man to easily follow the recommended posture while urinating. The sablay which is intended for woman is having a long sleeve and its body cut is loose. While the Habul would serve as support cover of the woman’s breast. The Batawi for woman and Birinu for man their cuts are quite fit but both cover the private parts.

Design and Photo: Yazir Rajim

All mentioned costumes can be ordered via this number (+60168446021) and email (etabuh@gmail.com). Should you wish to own a Batawi dress, Lapi’ and Sawwal on your wedding we can provide them for you in a reasonable prices.

In our online business we are also accepting orders for Tausug confectioneries such as bangbang hantak, durul , panyam, jah and to make Dulang Pagkawinan [a tray of food for wedding ceremony]. We are also providing catering services in Sandakan area. Just give us a dial or email.

See attached graphics for prices. Shipping payment [for local and International customers] is not included on the items’ prices.

Life is Always Wonderful

2011-12-02T14:49:00.003+08:00

The Month of Muharram plays a significant role in Muslim history as well as to every Muslim who would reflect to its wisdom. No matter what kind of situation we are in on this temporal world, we should always say “Life is always wonderful anytime, any places and any situations. Life cannot be bought with money, fame, position and social status. It cannot also be downed with dysphoric feeling, poverty, and failure. That is why life is always wonderful for it birthed from the most wonderful creator.

From 2^nd December 2010 life within me didn’t change even I had visited the Sultanate of Sulu and some part of Mindanao many times. The beautiful and ugly things occurred before my eyes had just added to the innumerable memories of life. I’m only but a powerless pawn created just to appreciate the beaut of a Master’s creations.

This is what I treasured in the beauteous island of Bongao. It is there where I met the true love to which all turban wearers up to. This un-withered love taught me to appreciate Ibn Al-Arabi treatise and the work of previous saints which emanated from Allah’s beloved servant Sayyidina Muhammad [May Allah always raise his rank].

I became so reactive if any human disrespecting the discoveries of Allah’s friends. I found garbled to a man who claimed to be experts in Islam on the other hand devaluing the teachings of the earlier scholars and friends of Allah. To me a human who loved to mock the men of love are devoid of true love.

Love is a broad thing. The one who understand its meaning is a person who truly experienced it. Love is just like a seed will not be grown in just a day. It needs more time and sacrifices before we can reap its fruits.

We are all under the shadow of a Great love. He had given us the way enable to find the way back to Him. This way had been built within us. The secret of this path cannot be easily found if negligence to the 5 keys given to Sayyidina Muhammad [May Allah always raise his rank]. In every key the true love will be revealed by itself. All human and Jinn cannot dictate this love to appear because it is beyond their understanding. Only them who had entered the house of love who can truly guide men to its door. For in every way there’s always a house at the end of it.

Out of this love the Salsabilah fountain which used by Prophet Muhammad for ablution before he rose to heaven on Isra’ wal Mi’raj transformed into a great gift of our lives with my soul partner – Nurjameelah. A signal from above vibrating into my heart to answer my plea at the time I need a name for my baby who was still wrapped with eternal bliss inside the womb. That name I found in Surah Al-Insan of the Glorious Qur’an.

On this 2^nd day of December 2011, I thanked Allah for giving me these two beautiful kids – Sharif Aljanjawi and Sharifa Salsabilah. They are both wonderful to me. May Allah increase the love in their hearts – the love for their Country [Sultanate of Sulu], to their Bangsa [Tausug] and to their beloved Religion [Islam].

Thanks for everything Ya Allah especially for giving me a partner who understand me to the fullest. Save us from the wrath of this world and hereafter.

With the blessing of Muharram – Ya Allah - guide all the Tausug to experience your Love enable that we can truly attain the real meaning of freedom in ourselves and country.

The Black Book: MAAS NUR MISUARI

2011-12-02T04:22:00.003+08:00

At last, Nelson’s dream to publish his own book is now became a reality. This craft is another chef-d'oeuvre of a Tausug patriot, artist, poet and novelist.

The product of his personal experience begot ‘The Black Book’ entitled MAAS NUR MISUARI.

This book is a sort of novel that focuses on the struggle of the Father of Bangsa Moro, Prof. Dr. Nur Misuari. To which he said: ‎"As an afterthought, knowing that my knowledge about his (Maas Nur Misuari) vision and mission in fighting for the human rights and just cause of the people is already enough to share with others, I took this bold step to write a simple novel as a tribute and my appreciation to him for being the “prime mover of the Bangsamoro revolution” in our homeland of Mindanao and Sulu." [Neldy Jolo Sulu]

Graphic: Yazir Rajim

Despite bulk of negative comments against Misuari, this book opens another positive angle where the People of Sulu and Mindanao must embrace to continue the dream which had been sowed in the past – Independence.

“...The conclusion and suggestion for the next plan of the struggle is the idea of shifting from Moro Nation to Tausug or Bangsa Sug. Sulu people have organized themselves to change citizenship from Filipino citizenship to Bangsa Sug or Tausug citizenship and nationality.

...The cause for independence is right now being filmed by the Tausug Citizens of the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam. The Tausug Citizens only claimed the territories that were part of the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam. The members of different revolutionary groups are invited to take part as actors in the filming of the SSDI episode. The film had started showing on 17 November 2010, the declaration day of the SSDI Assertion of Independence!” [ibid]

Thus, why to let the people of Sulu and Mindanao suffering much from colonial oppression if the panacea is with us?

Whatever reason do we have in minds; the struggle of a nation cannot be tied tightly in a group or movement most likely if it already swerved from the path because the one who were involved on this affair are the lives and fates of the people.

“...But it must be borne in mind that leaders come and go, only the cause and the inalienable rights of the people remain unaltered and undeterred by time. Whoever leads selflessly and sincerely will reap the heavenly rewards for their deeds.” [ibid]

Even the author has his own distinct opinion with regards to the struggle for self determination what is good he didn't side to any MAAS oppositions rather he took the middle way.

" To the people that envied and hated Maas using various arguments, thus criticizing him of corruption and ineffective leadership, it is up to them to prove the veracity of their charges. But since we are not privy to his life behind the scenes, whether he was really sincere to the cause or was also guilty to certain extent of some of the charges against him, we leave it to Allah SWT for the final verdict." [ibid]

To get a copy of this just send your email to the email address on the graphic.

I considered this book as a gift of Nelson to me on my birthday – 02/12/2011.

PAKAIN NA KITANIYU TUMUDJU?

2011-11-27T20:14:00.003+08:00

Tanyag in Bangsa Sug hapagbawgbugan ha bangsa, hula iban agama. In tanda’ niya masi natu’ pagkadungugan daing ha simud sin kamaasan natu’ amun bakas nagpakalabay nagbunu’ iban sin parinta Pilipinas ha jaman sin MNLF dih na kita magbista ha nakalabay lugtu sin kamaasan ha waypa in parhimpunan. Dugu’ iban Nyawa nila wala’ piyagug sabab hadja sin maksud.

Nakalabay pila kahalan himuka’ in pagbawgbug, baha’ sabab sin mataud na kapandayan in nakasaga’lut amun nahinang dan kiyaluhay ha lubid sin pagkasilasa himuka’ sambil in kaawnan nabugtu’ kandiri niya.

Ha bihaini na in jimatu mataud in naglawag-lawag sin paghambuuk yadtu. Bang upamakun salawat, agad balik-balikan na pagbat batun tanda’ sin baya’ tuud maghambuuk magbalik.

Bissarahun ta in paghambuuk daing ha sababaw-babaw panali’ sin kita iypun sin Allah. In paghambuuk pagnganan timindug siya ha hambuuk maksud, ha sibu’ kakahinang, iban ha sibu’ katagihan. Bang ta kitaun in kahalan sin bangsa Sug bihaun in kamatauran daing kanila natibuuk ha maksud, sagawa’ wala’ natibuuk ha kakahinang amun manunjuki pa hikakusug sin hambuuk papanaw amun magsabab daing hadtu makasuuk kita pa hikaabut ha maksud. Damikkiyan da isab ha sibu’ katagihan bukun da sila taayun. In sibu’ katagihan di manunjuki pa amun mahinang dan sin hikakusug sin sibu’ kakahinang.

Bang tungud pa maksud in dagayrayun magtuy mintas ha pikilan natu’ in hula’ bangsa, agama. In hula’ di pagiyanun amuna in hula’ kiyabin sin kamaasan,sibu da kiyapagbunuan iban sin wala’, sibu da in kaawnan sin hula’ yaun mataud tagdapu sin kalupa’-lupaan ha laum niya. Bang ta siya pandangun daing ha tandawan sin maksud in hula’ pagbahasahun amuna in katiluagan sin lupa’ iban dagat iban na sin ha taas, iban na sin ha bulian niya amun nasakup sin ukumsakup sin pamarinta nakauna amun piyatarrang sin magbabahagi’ hulaan bilang luggiya’ tuud hak sin bangsa ha hula’ tartantu.

Bang ha tiranan sin kita bangsa Sug unu in hula’ amun pagbahasahun ha maksud, amuna in hula Kapūan Sug atawakan tanug pagtagun Sultaniyyah sin Sulu atawa Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam. Damikkiyan ha maksud ini bang kita bukun bangsa Sug suntu’ niya bangsa Magindanaw, tantu in hula’ pagmaksurun nila ha jimpulag amuna in Kasultanan sin Magindanaw bihadtu ra isab pa manga dugaing bangsa amun imaatubang ha tibayhuan panglungkup.

Ha sibu’ kakahinang, bang ha jaman sin MNLF, in kakahinang kiyapagtaayunan nila amuna in maggirit pais pagbahasahun atawakan magbunu’. In papanaw ini dih ta maiyan wayruun kusug niya. In tanda’ kusug sin baynat niya, nanaytay daing ha ini in jimpulag sin MNLF timanyag pa katilingkal dunya. Adapun ha dugaing kahalan daing da isab labay hapagbunu’ bihaini napulahug in naghuhula’ ha Kapūan Sug pa katilingkal dunya, mataud nagkailu balu [magamgam pa bang sabil dih na hikaunu], mataud in naawam kaanakan iban sin kaibanan pa. Ha hinang bihaini masi naman awn naghuhuna’ subay ra hi labay bihaini magbalik ampa madawhat in daraugan.

Damikkiyan masi pa ha sibu’ kakahinang, ha huwas sin bunu’ timampal na in kaguwa’ sin sibu’ katagihan. Daing ha sabab ini nabahagi’ na in magbubunu’ tagna’, amun masi pa ha laum pa tayakkup, pa pa upat kaparrak. Hikaisa, tumpukan sin manga sila amun di’ naman mig daing ha gimba umatubang ha satru’ [amuna in kaibanan nakasud na pa Abu Sayyaf iban MILF]. Hikaruwa niya amuna in tumpukan sin kaluagan miyamagad ha MNLF dahun in parakala’ pa lamisahan – paawnun in pagsulut. Hikatu, tumpukan sin manga sila naglupus na sin pagMNLF nila - simaggaw na pa maglag usaha. Hikaupat, tumpukan sin manga sila taga-pangadji’ iban taga-pangiskul – tarbilang na ri in manga maguuki’ sayiksik sin kahalan sin jimatu pa hula’ iban bangsa.

Di ha sibu' katagihan ini, awn pa masi-masi imaatud sin parakala’ nakalabay misan in kaawnan bang upamakun magdama na “bargu” na amun subay tuud hisung misan labay na hapagluku ligaran ha lauman sin satru’. Awn da isab daing ha kaibanan masi naman hapaghuwat-huwat ha hinang nakalabay amun subay ra magbunu’ ampa madawhat in maksud, damikkiyan in maguusaha awn na in imunjal awn da isab wala’ na nakabalukahad. Damikkiyan in manga sila ha tiranan sin hikaupat yanda sila masi-masi gamman magtataud na daing kanila in nakapahati labay hapagsulat nila. Ha kahawpuan niya in katan kakahinang simanga wala’ da nakadagpak pa maksud. Amura kuman awn nahinang pamandugahan sin bangsa.

Pakain na tumudju?

In pamaham sin kaluagan tungud pa susungun sin hula iban bangsa di’ na makaguwa’ duun hapagtibuuk. Adapun in kabtangan “Pagtibuuk” ini parakala’ maluhay nganan sagawa’ mataud kahalan subay ta talitihun atawakan pariksaun ha supaya makaabut pa daratungan.

Tagnaan ta magbalik daing ha hula’, bang ha bangsa Sug in hula’ amun awn hak nila nakabaggut wayna dugaing daing sin Kapūan Sūg sakup na in katan binaybayan niya amun tanug pagtagun Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam. Mayta Kapūan Sūg? Sabab hakatampalan ha di’ na kita magpalaggu’ iban magpaluag sin hinang amura ini in hulaan amun duun nakapikit in tanggungjawab sin bangsa Sūg. Misan pa in kaawnan silawak sin kamaasan in pagtibuuk sin duwaa hulaan tagapamarinta nakauna, ha masa bihaun kahunitan da kita dumawhat sabab in taghula’ pakaniya-pakaniya naguulin bansan. In suntu’ niya yanna matarrang wala’ na kita kiyalibunan bud [biya’ na sin sambat di’ na hikapagsusun in makawa’ ta pamandugahan dakuman].

Hangkan subay lipagahun in hula’ pakaniya-pakaniya sabab yanduun in kapatut sin kitaniyu timindug. Karna’ misan in bangsa Sug di’ mangayu’ sin kamahardikaan sabab in hula’ asal mahardika’ in kapatut nakabutang ha katan bangsa Sug bukun ha siyulagan manusiya’. In ukumsakup sin hula’ wala’ nalawa’ sagawa’ piyalamma hadja ampa siyublihan sin pamarinta Pilipinas.

Bihaun bang maawn in paghambuuk magbalik, bukun na in pagtauran sin bangsa Sug magtraining umatu ha sundalu sin Pilipinas sagawa’ magtraining magpasung sin kapandayan sin tiyap-tiyap bangsa Sug amun mahinang sabab sin hikapalanyut iban hikasapat hikabangun sin hula’ magbalik.

In pagguwa’ sin pagtugila’ sin Bangsa liyabay ha hinang sin Tausug Citizens bukun siya nagdara maksud hipanaga’lut ha maksud sin duwa tumpukan MNLF iban MILF sabab in bangsa Sug ha babaan sin Sultaniyyah sin Sulu Darul Islam bukun siya tumpukan magdara sanjata’ sagawa’ magbangun sin bangsa labay hapagusal sin manga kapatut amun kiyalimpal ha sara’ antara’ bangsa atawakan sara’ dunya. Daing ha sabab sin pagukab sin kasara’ saran iban kapatut ini in kamahardikaan sin hula’ maluhay patindugun, sabab in hula ta asal yanta hiyuhulaan in kalagihan dakuman magbaktul sin manga kalagihan hinangun ha supaya in tiyap-tiyap siyulagan amun masuwak ha katagihan nila magdihil lipaga di’ na makatudju pa dugaing sagawa’ makaharap na hapagparayaw sin hula’ bukun magparayaw sin tumpukan iyaagaran nila.

In dumaug iban daugun ha tungud pagjimpulag wayra dugaing amura in naghinang. Sambat da sin bahasa “hinang hi baran magbalik da patagbaran” .

Bihaun yan in Bangsa Sug nangabi-ngabi ha dan pagtibuuk ini. Magtibuuk bukun ha ngan sin tumpukan sagawa’ magtibuuk hapagpalanyut sin hula’ bangsa iban agama.

In pikilan ha laum ini way nagdara maksud amuna in subay agarun sagawa’ maitung hambuuk sahawi sin kaanakan amun malugay na in pagsitta hapagtibuuk sin bangsa hapagbangun sin hula’. In wala’ imamu kamu na in maingat magpaamu. Pasura niyu rakuman ha ampun iban maap.

In nagnukil: Anak hi Parangsabil Aksa

TAHUN BA’GU 1433

2011-11-26T19:45:00.002+08:00

1. Every year we celebrate the advent of a new year and ask for forgiveness for the past years we lived.

2. Today, I went to the masjid to join the congregation prayer. After maghrib prayer, I sat on the nook of a masjid and ask Allah for forgiveness for the past sins and good deeds. For He is the Only Creator who is All Merciful and Compassionate. He is Allah to whom I submit my life, trust, and my salvation in this world and in the hereafter.

3. There are many reasons why our ancestors celebrated this event. Firstly, it is a symbol of continues reliance of Muslims to the one and only Creator. No matter what type of colour, tradition, and philosophy in life during this event we should contemplate, asks forgiveness and request for the future luck and salvation from any type of bad omens. Secondly, gathering such as this would strengthen social cohesion in the community.

4. After the prayer exclusively for Tahun Ba’gu been done, there were trays full of food readied outside. The congregation went to eat the Jajamuhan [charity through food].

5. May Allah save me and my family in this world and in the next life.

6. May Allah extend His blessing and forgiveness to the Sultan of SSDI, PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muhammad Muizzuddin II.

7. May Allah pour His support to the government of SSDI and the Tausug Citizens.

8. May Allah unify the hearts of all Tausug and they work collectively for the betterment of SSDI.

9. May Allah increase the strength of SSDI supporters and weaken the power of all oppositions.

Ameen ya Rabbal Alameen.

LIMAYA IN HULA’, RAAYAT IN NALAWA’ [Panghimati’ iban Panawag-tawag]

2011-11-24T02:19:00.001+08:00

Matarrang ha kiyanukil sin manulat hakatilingkal dunya bahawa’ in hula’ Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam [SSDI] asallimaya daing ha panagnaan kapahantang sin Pamarinta ha masa hi Al-Marhum SultanShariful Hashim @ Sayyid Abubakar Ibn Zainal Abiden.
Naawn man in lingug antara’ bangsa haantara’ sin hula SSDI iban sin Kastila’, timagna’ in kulina kapandayan sinkapil bang biyadiin hadja in hikaraug nila karna’ sin kusug sin Tausugmamawgbug ha hula’ sambil in Kastila’ gimulal ha Bangsa Sug bilang Juramentado atawa magsasabil.
Wala’nagmumpaat in Kastila namunu’ ha Tausug iban nakaraug ha pamarinta sinKasultanan, sahingga miyabut in hambuuk waktu ha masa pagsulut sin hula’Kastila iban Milikan amun giyulal “Treaty of Paris”. Di ha pagsulut inidiyagang sin Kastila in Pu’ Pilipin [Luzon iban Visayas] pa Milikan ha halga’20 Milyun Mexican dalar. In katitipuhan sin Kastila ha hal pagsulut ini hawaktu liyamud nila in SSDI sakup sin Pilipin. Malaingkan ha jaman yadtu inKastila wala’ nagmumpaat hapagbunu’ iban pamissuku’ ha tau sin SSDI. Wala’ nilara isab kiyapamarintahan in katilingkal kapuan, gamman in likusan sin pamarintasin Kastila ha Lupa’ Sug duun da ha Kuta’ hinang nila.
Sambat hi Prof. Clemencio Bascar hambuukmanulat daing ha pihak Chavacano, laung niya, “Ha masa sin pagpalamud ha SSDI tiyarbilangliyamud diyagang pa Milikan, wayruun misan panghati sin Sultan Sulu ha masayadtu. In hal bihaini laung niya matampal sulang ha sara’ antara’ bangsa atawasara’ dunya”.
Pagdatung sin Milikan simubli ha Kastila’ piyaawnnila in parjanjian “Bates treaty” ha antara’ sin Sultan Sulu iban hi GeneralBates. Ha parjanjian ini matampal in pangilahi sin Milikan ha ukumsakup sinKasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam.
Insumunud natali’ sin milikan nagpaawn na isab hambuuk parjanjian “CarpenterAgreement”. Di ha ini timampal na in katitipuhan ha waktu diyagdagan nila inkawasa sin Sultan tuput dakuman nakura’ sin pag-agama, bukun na bilang Sultansin hula’ Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam.
Adapun ha masa yadtu in kahalan sin raayatTausug nabahagi’. In kaawnan, in kaibanan wala’ na kiyaamuhan ha pagpapanaw sinpagparinta ha hula’ sabab sin siyuran na sin Milikan, in jimatu amuna inpagsabil iban pagbunu’ tighan ha raayat Tausug ha Bud Bagsak iban Bud Dahu’.
In kaagi sin Milikan kimawa’ atay sinTausug kaibanan labi’ luba’ in ha daira labay daing ha “Policy of Attraction”.Biya’ na sin pag-iskul, paghinang uspital, iban sin kaibanan pa. Adapun misanbihaini in hinang nila in Tausug hakaluagan niya bukun na masanyang sabab sinpana’gahi nila ha panglamuri sin satru’ hapagparinta sin hula’.
Sampay na hadja miyabut pa jaman hi maasKamlun, sambil na timaytay pa kaawn sin pagbunu’ ha antara’ sin MNLF iban sinparinta Pilipinas in kahalan sin Tausug ha laum na hadja sin kahiluhan.Nagkamundal mandil in bangsa, in hula’ Kasultanan Sulu wala’ na irup, amu indihilan lipaga sin Bangsa Sug in MNLF. Sabab ha atud nila amuyaun in danhikabaus nila pa satru’ amun nanglungkupi iban nangagaw sin hula’.
Ha dalam sin nagluluwas lungsad in bangsasug ha babaan sin Panji MNLF, in parinta Pilipinas nanayam akkal iban sanjata’.In panayam akkal wala’ kiyananaman sin bangsa Sug amuna in pamindahi sinkaraayatan nila pa Filipino. Misan pa in “Bangsa moro” saagun-agun amuna inbangsa sin katilingkal miyamagad ha MNLF, ha waktu in kaanakan,katawtaymanghuran sin sila sumud na mag-iskul way buli rapat daing sin tumayma’sin pagka-Filipino. Karna’ in Bangsa Moro di’ taymaun sabab satru’ sin parintaPilipinas.
Misan in MNLF kitaun makagaga umagpang haPilipinas labay ha bunu’ sanjata’ sagawa’ in Pilipinas nagmumpaat ha maksudnila hinangun Filipino in katan raayat naghuhula’ ha Kasultanan sin Sulu DarulIslam iban sin ha hula’ Kasultanan sin Maguindanao. Sahingga nalawa’ na sila hapadduman sin bangsa iban hula’ nila.
Pagabut nagpilma sin katas pagsulut in MNLFiban sin Pilipin, in jimatu daing ha nakura’ sin MNLF da na pa bata’ wayruun danahinang daing sin timayma’ sin pagka Filipino. Unu in sabab? Karna’ in MNLFbukun in piyagluwas-lungsaran niya bangsa Sug, sagawa’ ambaya’ maghinanghambuuk “Bangsa” amuna in Bangsa moro ha manga tau ha duwa hula’ taga pamarintanakauna – Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam iban Kasultanan sin Maguindanao.
Tarbilang na hapagsud pa Filipino in mangapanubu’ sin Kasultanan nakauna. Awn na daing kanila mataas in kawasa ha Pilipinawn da isab in wayruun. Awn daing kanila nangaku na Sultan sin Sulu iban NorthBorneo. Sabab in sila kunu’ katurunan Sultan sin Sulu. Wala’ nila kasayuhi daingpa ha masa paghuwas kawapat sin Sultan Jamalul Kiram II in sila katan tarbilangna lamud ha Pilipin. In tanda’ niya sambil hal sin North Borneo tiyukbal sinkaapuan nila pa Pilipin, Sabab mabaya’ nila utungun sambil North Borneo pasurunpa laum sin Pilipin. Amupa isab kug sin Pilipin bang in sila bihaun in halkarna’ wayruun na magmahi ha tungud sin hula’ Kasultanan sin Sulu.
Ha bihaini na in dagbus sin kahalan jimatuha bangsa Sug, bang upamakun bangka’ nalawa’ na panduga, piyaguwa’ sin Tuhan inhambuuk tau [Datu Ladjamura Wasik Aranan] nagdara gaydpamikil bidda’ daing hakaibanan bakas imutaw ha bangsa Sug. Ubus niya naglibut sin Kapuan Sug – ha ubusnamanduga sin kahalan – tiyauran siya sin Kasalipan, Karatuan, Buranun,Kasamalan, Ka Iyakanan iban sin kaibanan pihak ha katilingkal sin kapuan Sug.In maksud diyara nila magpaguwa’ sin hula’ Kasultanan sin Sulu daing hajambatan sin Pilipinas.
Hangkan sila ini nakabidda’, sabab inmaksud nila bukun biya’ sin kaibanan panubu’ sin Kasultanan mag-kawa’ sin NorthBorneo dahun sumud pa Pilipin, sagawa’ magpaguwa’ sin Kasultanan sin Sulu daingha lauman sin Pilipinas. In daut nila hambuuk da patindugun hadja magbalik inpamarinta sin Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam guwa’ daing ha Pilipinas.
Insanjata’ nila makusug amuna in pagpakawa’ nila “Birth Certificate” pa katannahinang na Filipino iban sin kaibanan bangsa. In bangsa diyukut ha laum sinBirth Certificate bukun Filipino sagawa’ BANGSA TAUSUG.
Mataud in di’ makatayma’ sin bangsa Tausugsahingga lilay kanila madtu-madtu bahawa in Tausug bukun siya pihak adapun amunain bangsa sin katan pihak sakup sin Kasultanan Sulu daing ha tahun 1405 sambilpa masa ini. Sabab in pagtawag Tausug amun kabiyaksahan sin tau ha masa iniamuna in jumlahan pagtawag ha manga tau naghuhula’ ha Lupa’ Sug ha wala’ pagimuwa in pikilan pagbangsa. Wala’ na ruun lilay hisiyu in Buranun, in Baklaya,in Arab [Kasalipan], Tagimaha, Banjar. Adapun bang ta paluagun in katan pihaknaghuhula’ ha babaan ukumsakup sin Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam in silaTausug atawa bang anggalisun “Sulu People”. Mahayang matampal in tau sin kapuansug amuna in manga pihak, Buranun, Yakan, Tagimaha, Banjar, Baklaya, Jamamapun, Kalibugan, Mulbug, Subaanun, Bisaya, Lannang, Arab, Chavacano, Samal,Bangingi’ iban sin kaibanan. In bangsa piyagtibuukan nila amuna in TAUSUG atawaBangsa Sug.
Hapagguwa’ sin tumpukan United TausugCitizens, in kamahardikaan sin hula’ timampal ha waktu jimatu in pagpasakat sinPanji sin Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam timagna’ ha Bud Bukid Parang nara nasambil pa daira tiyanngi, sambil na pa Bongao iban Sambuwangan. In nahinang sinparinta Pilipin sa’ tumun sin mapait karna’ sin di’ nila mabunu’ in Tausugnagpatindug sin panji sin hula’ biya’ sin kaagi nila ha MNLF. Kiyaingatan sinparinta Pilipin in Zamboanga, Basilan, Jolo, Palawan, Tawi-Tawi iban NorthBorneo in tagdapu Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam.
Daing ha sabab sin bihaini in baynat mataudtau daing ha gimba, tau laum daira, tau taga pangadji, maguuma, magiista’, ibansin kaibanan pa timaud pa hal ini. Karna’ kita’ nila in dagbus sin hula’ asallimaya labay ha bihaini dan.
Amura kuman misan bihaini kikita’ na in pu’datungan, in nakatahala’ sin parakala’ ini amuna in pagkakulang kabus sinbangsa Tausug ha alta’. Karna’ in manga nanukuhi sin parakala’ ini kulang da inmasiyn. Lagi’ wala’ nagtali’ in Bangsa Tausug subay awn tubung daing ha guwa’hula’ ampa nila mapatindug in hula’ nila. Yakin sila tuput Tuhan in makatabangkanila hapagparagan nila sin pagparinta amun kiyatagnaan sin pitsa 23 January2011.
In kalagihan sin bangsa Sug bukun mangayu’kamahaldikaan daing ha Pilipinas atawa daing ha United Nation. Karna’ in hulaKasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam wala’ naraug, wala’ kiyadagang hakasabunnalanniya iban wala’ kiyapanukbal pa Pilipin.
In hula’ Kasultanan sin Sulu Darul Islam intagdapu bukun liyuuran sin Kasultanan. In tagmustahak ha hula’ Kasultanan Suluamuna in katan Bangsa Tausug ha liyukupan sin Kapuan Sulu lamud na in mangapanubu’ sin Sultan sin Sulu iban pa manga iypun atawa banyaga’ amun inkaraayatan nila bukun Filipino, American, Malaysian, Arabian atawa unu unu na.
Daing ha sabab ini wajib in katan BangsaTausug tumuku sin hula’ ini. In pagtuku bukun hadja pilak adapun in pagpindasin karaayatan daing ha Filipino pa Bangsa Tausug hambuuk na tatabangan dakula’amun mahinang sabab hikasapat sin pagamulahi sin hula’ magbalik.
Ha masa ini in manga naguulin tanggungjawabTausug yanna nag-ukab sin ka upis-upisan biya’ na sin pagkakawaan BirthCertificate, Pagkakawaan Driver License, Boat Operator License, Plate numbersin sasakatan ha gimba iban ha dagat iban sin kaibanan pa. In panawag tawagnila in sila yaun bukun duma maglumba’-lumba’ atawa mag-iggil ha manga Filipinoyaun pa masi ha Lupa’ Sug, sagawa’ in sila nagtagna’ hadja imukab sinpagparinta sin Kasultanan magbalik. Adapun in manga nakura’ Filipino ha Lupa’Sug bukun sila di’ taymaun ha SSDI gamman hisiyu-siyu daing kanila in di’sumulang ha SSDI ukab in lawang kanila umulin tanggungjawab daing ha baba’sambil pa kataasan.
In SSDI di’ tuud manauri hapagbunu’,hapaghiluhala’, iban kaibanan parakala’ amun sulang pa kabayaan sin antara’bangsa.
Bang kamu ha guwa’ sin Kapuan Sulu yanda hainternet awn pagluluunan katasluun [form] sin Birth Certificate. Sud hadja kamupa www.sulu-darul-islam.commagpalista sin ngan niyu. Misan kamu di’ na makatabang siyn iban pikilan inpagluun sin ngan niyu pa “form” yan maitung na hambuuk tatabangan.
In pikilan ha laum ini wala nagdara maksudmagpasaula-ula, atawakan mangliyu lakad ha manga katawtaymanghuran nagpipikilsin hula’ sagawa’ nagpasampay sadja unu in iyabutan namu’ lugay hapagumbananiban sin maksud – hula’, bangsa, agama. Bangman kitaniyu piyapagkasilasa katan.
In wala’ imamu, paamuha niyu, in marayawtauri niyu.

Free Your Mind!

2011-10-12T09:27:00.001+08:00

This is the fact, Tausug is a free nation. Do not throw yourself to the pit of ignorance of your history. Break the vicious cycle injected by your enemy to your mind! Start changing now, you are not yet too late. Sultanate of Sulu was illegally annexed to the Philippines, thus it never became a part of the Imagine Nation.

Tausug is the Identity of all ethnics living in the Sulu Archipelago territory - neither Filipino nor Bangsa Moro.

Only the Tausug Citizens have the right to shout for the rights of their country! Philippines Stop your illegal activities in the Sultanate of Sulu territory!

Sultanate of Sulu is not part of the Philippines!

SULU ARCHIPELAGO BEFORE THE NAME PHILIPPINES EXIST [Bahasa Sug]

2011-10-05T00:43:00.003+08:00

On this video the origin of the word Sulug/Suluk/Solot/Solok depicted by the author enable to add more definition to the term.

The idea on this video is purely from the Tausug minds who are supporting the truth and facts about the Independent Sultanate of Sulu.

Tausug is not a tribe. This is the word that must be considered vital if we try to experience drastic change in our midst most especially the mind setting that we have.

We must go back from where we started enable to decide for the future of our homeland the Sultanate of Sulu.

Watch our fellow Tausug!

The Kakaun Sug [Tausug Food]

2011-10-04T23:30:00.000+08:00

Tausug is a name of a race of the people or ethnics residing in the Sulu Archipelago. Though the term was considered as a merely ethnic of the people of Jolo, today many people are beginning to realize that the Tausug was the name which became the strong strand of all ethnics under the umbrella of the Royal government of the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam.

Before illegally annexed to the Philippines, the Sultanate of Sulu had a successful government for more than 300 years. Now the Sultanate government had been reinstalled by the Tausug citizens last 17 November 2010. The long period hegemony of the Sultanate government had caused the Tausug cultures well preserved from one generation to the other. Only most of Tausug cultures still unexposed to the outside world – especially their food. The Tausug food is unique, hence it deserves to reach all people around the world. Enable that they can truly understand the Tausug race from other aspect of their lives - food.

In the Tausug food we can found food which symbolizes unity of all ethnics regardless of their social status be it they a Buranun, Samal, Bangingi', Kalibugan, Yakan, Jama Mapun, Mulbug, and others. One staple food eat by everyone after rice any food made from cassava such as Piyutu, Siyanglag and Biyanban. These foods are widely available anywhere in Sultanate of Sulu territory or in places where the Tausug living.

On this write up I would like to summarize few recipes of the Tausug which originated from the Island of Jolo. Such as the Tiyula’ Itum (black soup) Kinilaw, Siyagul, Piyalam, Piyassak, Kaliya, Piyanggang manuk, Suwan-suwan, Adubu manuk, Paksiyu, Tiyula ista’, Tiyula’ sina’, Siyanglag, Piyutu, Biyanban. And to name few of some sea foods such as Tihi’-Tihi’, Bat, Tayum, Sikad-sikad, Kahanga plus the fruit vegetables cook by the Tausug in their own way like the unripe Jackfruit, unripe Marang (variety of Jackfruit), Dabung (bamboo shoot) unripe banana, Pusu’ (banana heart) and many more. These few examples if to cook by the Tausug their taste would be different. Moreover, its originality will not lost.

Some Tausug foods like Tiyula’ Itum, Siyagul and others mostly added with chili pepper. As some locals say that “Without chili pepper the food has no taste”. Another spice which makes the tiyula’ itum and siyagul different from the other is the burned coconut or the “siyunug lahing”. The burned coconut will not only give strong aroma but it also becomes the color of tiyula’ itum soup. Tiyula’ itum is very important to the Tausug especially during special occasion. Tiyula itum will also serve as head of all viand. Without it at the center of food tray, to some, it is incomplete. Tiyula’ itum is a food that symbolizes the Tausug pride most likely the ethnic Buranun.

The most popular food besides tiyula’ itum is the Siyanglag, Piyutu and Biyanban. These foods originated from one source – the cassava. Before the Cassava becomes Siyanglag or Piyutu it has to pass through certain stages. Starts from to uproot the cassava in the garden down to peeling its skin, and when everything is clean the next step is to grate it. After grating the next step is to remove the juice from the pulverize cassava until it is completely dried. After all these steps prepare all things needed before cooking.

As a replace to rice most Tausug usually eats Siyanglag, Piyutu and Biyanban. It is a custom of Tausug to eat first Siyanglag, Piyutu and Biyanban before rice. Tausug could easily identify someone he is not originally from Sulu once he doesn't eat first any cassava food. The Tausug love to eat cassava food because it would last in stomach more than six hours compare to rice. The cassava foods are almost compatible with all viands especially the roasted fish mix with seafood.

Sulu archipelago is a home to a seafood. The most loved seafood of all Tausug especially the Samal are the Agal-agal, Gamay (variety of seaweeds) and some sea urchins like Tihi’-Tihi and Tayum. These sea foods will be eaten freshly, except the Agal-agal have to pass few processes before it can be eaten.

Being people living in the island surrounded by seas, the Tausug lavishly eats fishes. Everyday fish always present on the table. Whenever there is a rice and cassava food, the fish must be there. There is a type of cooking fish, I am not sure if this is originated from the Tausug, with the vinegar and some spices – we called it Liyawal or better known as Kinilaw. This type of raw food is best to eat with cassava and roasted fish in the seashore or during picnic. Usually, the Tausug use to prefer this once a week. They believed liyalwal could not be eaten daily because of the acid present in the vinegar and lemon. To some, they eat this food for healthy purposes especially if one has low blood pressure.

Besides these sea foods, the Tausug is also vegetarian. Aside from leafy vegetables the Tausug uses to cook unripe jackfruit, marang (variety of jackfruit), dabung (bamboo shoot), and unripe banana. These unripe fruits vegetable usually cook with coconut milk and dried fish and some spices. As this fruit vegetable cooked, we called it Giyataan. Giyataan means to cook with coconut milk. The giyataan is delicious to eat on lunchtime. The presence of coconut milk, dried fish and tumeric in giyataan would unveil the secrets of unripe fruits like jackfruit, marang bamboo shoot and unripe banana.

Through these foods, we can see how the Tausug surviving despite of chaos and poverty they face for centuries. There is none Tausug who left their homeland without recalling these foods. How delicious the food in other countries would be, the Tausug food still number one to them because it's there where their identity as Tausug lies.

Mienhaj Hussain Interviews Neldy Jolo

2011-10-04T11:30:00.002+08:00

Meinhaj Hussain of GrandeStrategy.com interviews Nelson Jolo [Neldy Jolo] of the Sulu Tausug. The Philippines needs to stop illegally occupying the Sulu Islands which according to international law is an independent state. The Sultanate of Sulu will insh'Allah regain her rightful place.

All Time Music in Sulu

2011-10-03T10:59:00.000+08:00

Alltime Music in Sulu is about what happen to the life of the Tausug starts fromAmerican era until now. Though a lot of previous occurrences in the past didn’tinclude particularly during the Spaniard’s time, on this list the author justput incidents he knew based from history books and verbal accounts. Perhaps wecan make another album of sadness to include all unlisted happenings in theSultanate of Sulu in the past and at present.

Thisis not about Music Band but it’s also good if there’s a music band wish towrite lyrics based from the list above.

Historyof the Tausug is one of the most pitiful in the history of humanity. Thus it’s worthy to be written by its peopleand those who sympathize with the plight of this people. Enable that the foes could not easily erase historical reality from the mind of our offspring.

Thisis not about revenge or to incite hatred into the heart of the Tausug and thefuture generation. But to give them encouragement not to devalue what hadbeen struggled by their forefathers in building a Tausug Nation and theSultanate of Sulu.

Pastis always past even how sad it was, but it is the past that we must considermost because the Tausug is not yet defeated in the hands of their enemies - the struggle is going on. Theonly defeated were them who cling to the ideas of the enemy, talk like theenemy, salute to the flag of the enemy and so on and so forth. Although most Tausug loves their country theSultanate of Sulu, most of them cannot sacrifice to skip a meal even just for aday.

Whateverit is, our life in this world is just temporary, so as with the struggle. Letjust listen to the same kind of music play by the same death metal band in ourenvironment every day. Anyone of you lament about the Music being played byyour enemies at least the music suited to your ear has been on by the people whodoesn’t want to listen to death music genre.

Maythe Spirit of the Parangsabil in Sulu be with us!

Tausug Badly Need Change!

2011-09-30T20:46:00.000+08:00

Sultanate of Sulu Identity: Tausug or Bangsa Moro

2011-09-28T15:10:00.002+08:00

Prof. Neldy Jolo is a researcher, book author, script writer, song writer, poet, artist, and singer. His first craft is the book entitled SULU ARCHIPELAGO: The Islands of Pearls and the Wisdom Behind it. This book will be included to publish together with his novel about Prof. Nur Misuari entitled MAAS.

On this video Prof. Neldy Jolo tried his best to presence the controversial topic about the identity of the people of Sulu; is it Tausug or Bangsa Moro. According to Prof. Neldy Jolo Bangsa Moro is a religious identity of the Muslims in Mindanao and Sulu. It was named to them enable that they will be easily determine by the Spaniard. The term Bangsa Moro was popularized later by Prof. Misuari under the MNLF banner.

The Tausug as an Identity of all ethnics living within the Sultanate of Sulu areas is vulgarize by the United Tausug Citizens since 2005 up to the present time. The purpose of the group is neither autonomy nor federalism but to take back what has been due to the people of the Sultanate of Sulu - Independence. The followers of this group is not a Filipino but a Tausug Citizens of the Sultanate of Sulu.

Enjoy watching!

THE SULU MYSTIC

2011-09-25T16:36:00.001+08:00

The Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam isfamous to the world as a land of mystic. This is perhaps of the continuous flowof the wave of Muslim saints arriving to Sulu shore in different ways since pre1380 [the arrival of Sheikh Makhdum] up to the present time. The knowledge of the Sufi masters sowed inthis island country has bear fruits and being practiced by the Tausug in theirdaily lives.

“Islam will never lose in Sulu evenwithout propagators to preach in this country” according to Professor BenharTahil. Allah SWT who is the source of all knowledge would choose from among Hisservant Tausug if who from among them have clean heart able to shoulder theresponsibility of being a vicegerent.

Almarhum Tuan Hadji Gulam HassanAlbikangi once said, “A month of seclusion in Mt. Kinabalu can be attained 10days in Mt. Tumantangis in Sulu.” This saying is clearly telling us that Suluis indeed a womb to hidden knowledge, hidden treasure and hidden government.Who expect Queen Sheba’s Kingdom is located somewhere in Sulu? It is popular insome secret’s tongue that Prophet Sulayman and Queen Sheba used to visit Suluduring their lifetime. But this information is quiet wispy to us to recall whathad been done by our ancestors or perhaps the accurate answer is that because ofour limited knowledge to uncover all mysteries in our surrounding.

Anyway, the Sultanate of Sulu has alot of things awaits explorers both tangible and intangible things. We’ll justwait for its fate to rejuvenate, insya’Allah.

The video above is one of the latestoccurrences in the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam. The Imam on this video isjust an ordinary Tausug who once worked with Philippine government as aTeacher, office worker who graduated at the Western Mindanao State Universitywith the degree of BS Electrical engineering. Who had expected him to become like this? Not even himself and hisfriend.

Sometimes in 2010 the author met theImam on the video in Jolo. Back then he preached and cured mystical illness somewherein Indanan, Sulu. I was really impressed the power of Allah to mouldhis servant according to His will. Every Tuesday and Thursday he secluded whileon the other days he entertained visitors who asked him for help.

The Imam on the video is a directdescendant of Sultan Shariful Hashim. Allah SWT endowed him with many gifts such as to cure the patient, to intercede disputes; to do intercession insomeone’s grave, and many other things usually do by the secrets of Allah.

The Imam reminded his followers andfamilies “To do what has been commanded by Allah SWT and to stay away from whathas been forbidden because the end of the world is fast approaching”, accordingto Fatmarwa [An Imam sister] in our FB chat.

On this video his sermon werefocusing on doing good deeds and forbidding evil and make the Qur’an as guidein people’s live. This is style of preaching reminds me of what had been exertedby Sultan Shariful Hashim with the Buranun.

The Imam on this video possessed anoble character before he became like this. He is the man you can trust,helpful, caring, loving and beside all have a deep concern over the plight ofits people and country the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam.

By now most of his followers wereImam in different localities in Sulu, professionals, laymen and other walk oflife.

May Allah sanctify the secret of theImam and his followers.

We are but a Nation

2011-09-24T13:49:00.001+08:00

All ethnicsliving within the territory of the Sultanate of Sulu now and then are calledTAUSUG by National. They are the:

Buranun
Tagimaha
Banjar
Arab
Chinese
Yakan
Jama Mapun
Mulbug
Kalibugan
Subaanen
Bisaya
Sama/Samal or Badjao
Bangingi’/Balangingi’
Chavacano

If you are gettingconfuse with this fact we have many history books to consult to. Read and comprehend!

Starting in2007 until now the Tausug Citizens of the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam iscalling to all Tausug Ethnics mentioned above to switch citizenship fromFilipino to Tausug. The movement believe the true lasting peace in Sulu Archipelagocannot be achieved through ARMM reform, autonomy or federalism under theRepublic of the Philippines but it is through effectuation of the de facto governmentof the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam.

TheSultanate of Sulu Darul Islam has already a Sultan who is neither a Malaysiannor a Filipino but a Tausug Citizen.

Thus, ifanyone of you dreaming for peace in Sulu Archipelago, we must all support therevival of the Tausug as a Nation and not as a tribe as what many people today believed.

To Allah belongsthe sovereignty.

MARTYRS: YOU ARE ALIVE IN OUR HEARTS

2011-09-23T00:24:00.002+08:00

Bud Bagsak Martyrs

The Sultanate ofSulu Darul Islam had been showered by the blood of noble martyrs from the dawnof its glory until now. Martyrs in this part of the world were numerous, onlyAllah knows it, but on this article I share to you the story of a martyr duringthe war between Tausug MNLF and the marionette soldiers of the Philippinegovernment on the early blast of martial law, his name was Parangsabil Aksa.

ParangsabilAksa was a son of an impregnable Hatib named Musa. He was a native of LagasanAsibi’ and Dakula’, Sulu. He was theeldest son, who possessed noble character, pious and knowledgeable of Islam.Being a son of a Hatib, he had a deep loved for his religion, race and nation.

Before the war smashed the peacefulenvironment of Sulu, Aksa and his family were loved one another. The sense of “Magbawgbug” [support or defence] amongthem was so high back then. Their daily activity then was fishing but when warstarted everything had been left behind except to bring a gun in the jungle.

ParangsabilAksa joined the MNLF through his brother Abdurajim Musa. According to theircousin who shared this story, back then at the back of their mind was not aboutthe MAOIST ideology or Moro thing but it was about Islam. As they had been told then that the Kuffar from Manila will be waging waragainst Muslim in Sulu. For the love of the country, race and religion, thesoldiers of the Philippine government entertained well by the courageous Tausug.

In one ofthe many wars, somewhere in Bud Put, Sulu there was an encounter betweenPhilippine Army and the group of Parangsabil Aksa. At that time, most of Aksafamily were also busy in war in other areas. The known MNLF commander who waspart of his group was Khaddaffy, who died when MNLF speedboat sunk nearSandakan. Khaddafy was hit and brought to the nearest MNLF camp for treatment.They had been scattered, thus Aksa left alone and also hit near his buttock. When the war ceased, Aksa’s company thought hewas safe. Unknowingly, Aksa was in the middle of helpless howling for the pain.

Early in themorning Hatib Musa starts worrying about his son. He felt something hadhappened to Aksa. After pondering He took the G-1 rifle and asked his nephew toaccompany him to look for Aksa. They walked from Lagasan in the morning and arrived to the house of his wife family in Talipao in the afternoon. The Hatibhad no idea where to search for his son. The family of his wife asked them to stay overnight in Talipao.

At dawnprayer, Hatib Musa woke up, after taking his ablution he went inside the house toperform Subuh prayer. When he was about to pray, he heard a sound of Kura’Sambalani [unicorn] roared outside the house. He observed for a while but thesound was still on. And a little while he saw the spirit of Parangsabil Aksastood before him without any sound and Hatib Musa astonished but shed no tearswhen he saw his son. Hatib Musa stood up and had an intention to embrace hisson but he failed because Aksa’s spirit was vanished.

On the firstday of Aksa’s wounded, his throat dried and badly needs a water to drink.He beseech to Allah for this. By the grace of Allah, he suddenly saw the watercoming out from the dried ground. That water caused him to survive for fewdays. After few days, there’s four men wore white garb and turban approachedhim and said: “This is the only man who successfully followed the footstep ofhis Prophet, Muhammad Peace be upon Him.” Then the angels disappeared.

After awhile he heard a conversation in Tagalog language which said, “Huwag ka pupuntadyan mayroon Maoist” [Don’t go there there’s a Maoist]. The sounds were comingfrom the soldiers who searched for MNLF mujahidin wounded. The soldiers burnedthe bush, luckily when the fire near Aksa hiding place it off as ifsomeone had sprayed water into it. Aksacollected stones near to him; he had in mind when the soldiers found him thatstones would become his weapon to fight against the Philippine army. Luckilywhen the soldiers almost near to his hiding place they stopped and turned away.

ParangsabilAksa was silently breathing upon withdrawal of those soldiers. In few hours, he heard people conversing inTausug language. Those people found him but he had suspected as enemy untilParangsabil Aksa utter the Kalimatus Syahadat where the dubiousness subsided inMaharadja Edjas and companies hearts. On that day he survived a week in a jungle without a food except water.

Back at homehis family decided to bring him as far as Sandakan to treat his wound. But theParangsabil refused he knew that his death shall be approaching. What he did heshared to his family and friends his experience. Those who listened to hisbeautiful experience shed a tear and make a prayer to follow his way. His sharing had been recorded and made it as“kissa” sang by Maglulugu’. Unfortunatelythe tape is no longer available.

At the 44days of his counting starts from his observation of death approaching, Parangsabil Aksa left the world with a wonderful experience. His tomb is somewherein Mahala, Talipao.

Allah wouldsend more would be martyred once justice and freedom still unreachable in theisland country of the Sultanate of Sulu.

HALLUCINATION

2011-09-12T21:41:00.001+08:00

I remember the day, when a father said to his son, “Dearson if our movement succeeded on its cause your future would be brighter. Iwill be enrolling you at the prestigious school in our country. By that time mywork is just to send and fetch you at school.” The son just smiled upon hearinghis father wishes [his heart whispering, Insya’Allah]. Few months after their conversation his fatherpassed away without any property bequeathed to his family except the unfinishedcause.

The son and his family left with broken heart. They liveas what many revolutionists’ families live in foreign land. They treated in thatcountry as refugees, though with special treatment from the government. Theyare given temporary settlement and pass enable that they cannot be regarded asillegal immigrant.

Most of these refugees easily assimilated to localculture because they have similar belief and color with the dwellers onlydiffer in language. Lately some of thembecame national of this country while the others still holding permanentresidence card and special pass.

In short most of these refugees were no longer likebefore for various reasons:

1. Before the war broke out in their country mostof this people were not war freak but they were force to volunteer to defend theircountry, religion and race because their enemy were ruthless [it’s better tofight back than to get killed].

2. They had sensed that war was merely apropaganda enable to shutdown other important matters about their homeland.

3. Their leader took the wrong step thus thevision which they were fighting have been sideline.

4. Their leader has not giving them any attentionthus left them pitilessly in foreign land. Some of them said “Its better theOrang Utan were visited by their leader than them”, during the leader visit tothis land.

The refugees’ children in this part of the world were sharingthe same fate like the fellow mentioned above. Even some of them still havetheir fathers but their fathers’ dream still unreachable. Though the leaderthey followed before is now with their enemy vying for another position in the “enemy’strap”, most of them were busy in their business and have less concern of theirmovement.

Hopefully, these refugees will continue dreaming fortheir freedom and continue to encourage their children to love their country,race and religion. A man without a country is like a bird without a nest.

Hundred years from now, Insya’Allah, the offspring ofthese refugees still with the dream of their ancestors [if this dream still unreachedby any current strugglers] until they could feel the sweetness of being acitizen of a motherland.

PONDER TAUSUG!

2011-09-03T17:55:00.001+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Only now thewillingness to blog unlocked after two consecutive months my soul interlaced insocial and religious activities in our community. Forgive me for unable to satiateyour longing to read fresh articles before this.

Ramadhan isa month of reflection to those who reflect. The blessing promised by Allah onthis month is an indication that to those who struggle, observe and follow Hiswill shall be successful in this world much more in the day hereafter.

Every saneMuslim are oblige to fast on the month of Ramadhan regardless of his socialstatus except those who have reasonable problems. The sapience which Allahwelded on this month is limitless, but the clear message is the inner purificationof the soul. So that at the end of the month, every Muslim filled his soul withstrong taqwa and love to Allah, to belovedProphet SAW and to his fellow Muslims and other humankind – thus he is the manof success once all his worships and sins will be forgiven by Allah SWT in theday hereafter.

The Takbir, Tasbih and Tahmid during HaylayaEidil Fitri symbolizes as a partial victory for a Muslim. Insya’Allah thefullest one will be enjoyed in the hereafter. For Allah is true to His promise,“Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it! [Qur’an99:07]

The Tausugwho are hankering for peaceful and independent Sultanate of Sulu must take alesson from Ramadhan and Haylaya Eidil Fitri. They must plan and act with one unifiedvision [total separation from the Philippine Republic]. Our motto is clear “Tausugis not Filipino, and Sultanate of Sulu is not part of the Philippines”. Never mind to those who are mired in the mud of their egos. We will not force them to accept. We are all bound to die and leave this world. We just do what we can for our beloved country the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam.

Tausug, wakeup! We are still in the midst of struggle and sacrifice. How stronger our enemywould be, Allah SWT is more powerful than them. Let’s just turn the directionof our reliance towards Him; for He is the source of all creations, He is thesource of power, and source of our victory. La hawla wala quwwata illa billahilaliyyil azeem.

“When comesthe help of God, and victory. And thou dost see the people enter God’s religionin crowds, celebrate the praises of thy Lord, and pray for his forgiveness: ForHe is Oft-Returning [in Grace and Mercy]. [Qur’an 110: 1-3]

Salamat HaylayaEidil Fitri and May Allah forgive our sins!

Tausug 101: Typical Questions

2011-06-30T21:42:00.000+08:00

How are you?

Maunu unu kaw?

I’m fine, thank you.

Marayaw, magsukul.

Where have you been?

Bakas kaw piyakain?

I’ve been in Malaysia.

Bakas aku ha Malaysia.

What time is it?

Lisag pila na?

Its eleven thirty in the morning.

Lisag hangpu’ tag-isa na sin mahinaat.

Where are you going after this?

Pakain nakaw pagubus ini?

Going home.

Muwi’ na pa bay.

I invite you to eat lunch with me at my house.

Taabbitun takaw kumaun mataas suga habay ku.

It’s my pleasure, thank you.

Makuyag aku, magsukul.

Do you have any relatives in Malaysia?

Awn lahasiya’ mu ha Malaysia?

Yes, I have.

Huun, awn.

What is the currency of Malaysia?

Unu in unudsiyn ha Malaysia?

It’s called Ringgit.

Amuna in pagtagun Ringgit.

How about you, have you been to other country?

Biyariin in ikaw, bakas kaw nakapaguwa’ hula?

Yes, I had.

Huun, bakas.

I went to perform umrah in Makkah with my family.

Bakas kami nagumrah ha Makkah iban sin ahli ku.

Alhamdulillah, you did perform a noble one.

Alhamdulillah, nakahinang kaw sin mulliya.

Thanks for the lunch.

Magsukul ha kakaun mataas suga.

You are welcome.

Magsukul da isab.

Got to go now.

Muwi’ na aku bihaun.

Take care on your way home.

Kamaya’ kaw hapaguwi’ mu pa bay.

Regards to your family.

Salam duwaa ha ahli mu.

Tausug 101: Social Conversation

2011-06-26T15:29:00.002+08:00

What is the capital city of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Unu in pusud daira sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The Capital city of the Sultanate of Sulu is Jolo.

In pusud daira sin Sultanate of Sulu amuna in Jolo.

Who was the first Sultan of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Hisiyu in panagnaan Sultan sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The first reigned Sultan of the Sultanate of Sulu was Sultan Shariful Hashim Sayyid Abubakar.

In Panagnaan Sultan namarinta ha Sultaniyah sin Sulu amuna hi Sultan Shariful Hashim Sayyid Abubakar

What are the ethnics dwelling in the Sultanate of Sulu?

Unu naman in pihak naghuhula’ ha Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

There are many such as the Buranun, Tagimaha, Badjao, Yakan, Jama Mapun, Kalibugan, Bisaya, Chinese and others.

Mataud biya’ na sin Buranun, Tagimaha, Badjao, Yakan, Jama Mapun, Kalibugan, Bisaya, Lannang iban sin kaibanan pa.

What is the official religion of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Unu in agama humput sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The official religion of the Sultanate of Sulu is Islam.
In agama humput sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu amuna in Islam.

Name all states covered by the Sultanate of Sulu?

Ngani in hula’ sakup sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The states under the Sultanate of Sulu are Jolo, Tawi-Tawi, North Borneo, Zamboanga Peninsula and Palawan.

In hula’ ha babaan sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu amuna in Lupah Sug, Tawi-Tawi, North Borneo, Pasisil Zamboanga iban Palawan.

Who is the current Sultan supported by the Tausug Citizens of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Hisiyu in Sultan bihaun tiyuku sin hambaraayat Tausug sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The current Sultan duly supported by the Tausug Citizens is PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muhammad Muizzuddin II bin Datu Wasik Aranan.

In Sultan bihaun tiyuku sin hambaraayat Tausug amuna hi PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muhammad Muizzuddin II bin Datu Wasik Aranan.

What is the official language of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Unu in bahasa humput sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

The official language of the Sultanate of Sulu is Bahasa Sug or Sinug
In bahasa humput sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu amuna in Bahasa Sug atawa Sinug.

How many heirs apparent have the right over the throne of the Sultanate of Sulu?

Pila in Liy-uran Tagpusaka’ tagakapatut ha takhta sin Sultaniyah sin Sulu?

There are two; they are the Kiram [the first heir apparent] and the Aranan [the second heir apparent]

Duwa; in sila amuna in Kiram [Panagnaan Liy-uran Tagpusaka’] iban sin Aranan [Hikaruwa Liy-uran Tagpusaka’]

Yazir Rajim

Tausug 101: Business Conversation

2011-06-26T06:43:00.002+08:00

Andres and Ahmad are going to the Market.

Hi Andres kay Ahmad yadtu piya Tabu’.

This is the only market in Jolo.

Amura ini in tabu’ ha Tiyanggi [Jolo].

Ahmad, there are plenty of vegetables and fruits sold here.

Ahmad, mataud sayul iban bungangkahuy diyaragang daindi.

Yes Andres, there are a lot.

Huun Andres, mataud.

Where could we buy fish and prawn?

Hawnu kita makapami ista’ iban ullang?

Come, it’s over there.

Karikaw, yadtu didtu/ridtu.

How much this yellow fin tuna per kilo?

Pila siyn in ista’ panit ini hangka kilo?

It’s two pilak per kilo, sir.

Duwa pilak hangka kilo, tuan.

How many kilos of fish do we need to make kinilaw, Ahmad?

Pila kilo ista’ in kalagihan hinangun Kinilaw, Ahmad?

Two kilos would be sufficed.

Duwa kilo makajari na.

What else do we need to buy?

Unu pa in manga kalagihan ta bihun?

We go to the other side to buy spices, coconut and cassava.

Madtu kita pa hansipak mami pamapa, lahing iban panggi’.

Andres, have you try to eat roasted cassava?

Andres, nakasulay nakaw kimaun siyanglag?

Not yet Ahmad, how to cook it?

Waypa Ahmad, biyadiin in paglutu’ kaniya?

It’s easy to cook roasted cassava; I’ll show it to you later.

Maluhay ra maglutu’ siyanglag; pakitaun tamayan kaw.

Ahmad, don’t forget to buy Durian and Lanzones.

Ahmad, aymu kalupahi mami Duyan iban Buwahan.

I will call uncle Hashim if he sells Durian and Lanzones.

Tawagan ku hi amaun Hashim bang awn Duyan iban Buwahan diyaragang niya.

Tausug are very kind and friendly to the tourist, Ahmad.

In Tausug marayaw iban patibagayun ha manga tau labay, Ahmad.

Thank you for coming with me here.

Magsukul sin ibanan mu aku mari.

Tausug 101: Basic Tausug Conversation

2011-06-25T22:28:00.006+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Honestly, the idea about this simple Tausug conversation loom when an FB friend, Dr. Meinrado Martines, wanted to learn this language. Hopefully, he and the visitors of this blog could learn Tausug language from this initiative.

If Allah permits, we would be posting more of daily conversation that could be used by a non-Tausug to understand the Tausug language [Bahasa sug] in a simple and basic manner.

The author, confessedly, not expert on these languages [English and Bahasa Sug] but for the sake of sharing, I think this basic knowledge that he has could be of use.

Conversation - 1: Personal Questions [Manga Pangasubu ha baran]

What is your name?

Unu in Ngan mu?

My name is Ahmad.

In ngan ku hi Ahmad.

Where do you live?

Hawnu kaw nakabutang?

I live in Maimbung

Nakabutang aku ha Maimbung

How old are you?

Pila na in ummul mu?

I am eighteen years old.

In ummul ku hangpu’ tagwalu tahun.

What is your father’s name?

Unu in ngan hi ama’ mu?

My Father’s name is Abdullah

In ngan sin ama’ ku hi Abdullah

What is your mother’s name?

Unu in ngan hi ina’ mu?

My Mother’s name is Amina

In ngan hi ina’ ku hi Amina

How many siblings are you in the family?

Pila kamu magtaymanghud?

Five.

Lima

How many male and female?

Pila in taud sin usug iban babai?

There are three males and two females.

Tu usug iban duwa babai

What is your religion?

Unu in agama mu?

My religion is Islam.

In agama ku Islam

What is your degree?

Unu in natalus mu pangadji’?

I finished Bachelor of Education.

In natalus ku Pangadji’ Pagmastal.

What is your favourite food?

Unu in kasuban mu kakaun?

My favourite food is Fried Chicken

In kasuban ku kakaun Ligang Manuk

What is your favourite beverage?

Unu in kasuban mu paginum?

My favourite beverage is buko juice

In kasuban ku paginum sabaw butung

What is your favourite colour?

Unu in kasuban mu walna’?

My favourite colour is red.

In kasuban ku walna’ pula.

What is your favourite viand?

Unu in kasuban mu Lamay.

My favourite viand is grilled fish.

In kasuban ku lamay tiyapa ista’.

Do you have a wife?

Awn na asawa mu?

Yes I have.

Huun awn na.

What is your work?

Unu in hinang mu?

To be continued..[sugpatan da]

Tausug Artists in Malaysia

2011-06-20T00:09:00.001+08:00

Despite of some Sabahan demock towards Suluk or Tausug as PTI [Pendatang Tanpa Ijin or Illegal Immigrant] many from among them have excelled in Music industry in Malaysia, not to mention those politicians and successful businessmen.

Among them are Julfekar Ahmad, AsreeSulu, Troy, Khamis, and many others.

In Kuala Lumpur, the famous Tausug artist who able to turned his talent into a big business is Julfekar Ahmad. This man has produced and writes many songs not only popular in Malaysia including in international market. His song entitled “Melakar Rindu” became a soundtrack of a local TV series which air through TV3 channel in Malaysia. Honestly, I was inspired to write this article because of his latest Tausug song “Ampuna Na”.

Another Tausug caricaturist, book author and a singer who successfully reached his dream is AsreeSulu or better known then as Asreemoro. The masterpieces of this humble man though not popular as Julfekar Ahmad, have already penetrated international listeners and readers. His song “Indah” which according to him just an ordinary project, had touched most homes of the Tausug be it in Malaysia, Sultanate of Sulu, Philippines, Middle east and even in America.

His book entitled Tausug dan Kesultanan Sulu or Tausug and The Sulu Sultanate which served as a passage to route for a new future for the Tausug and its government is also attracting more readers. Despite of the complexities of the issue he suggested in this book which I summed up “History is the parameter to resolve the elusive conflict and tyranny in Sulu”. On free time he spent his skill in caricature in some renowned hotel in KL. His blog can be opened through this link http://tausug-global.blogspot.com.

Troy is also a Tausug singer in Malaysia based in Semporna Sabah. The popular album of this “white hair singer” is entitled Patay Lidjiki’ which means “Dead Fortune”. His songs were also famous to the Tausug worldwide.

The last man who has a “Steelheart-like voice famous in Malaysia is Kamis. His Lolay Liyangkit song is played not only in Tausug homes but as well as the Non-Tausug. This man is from Tawau, Sabah. His far-famed experience is in cultural presentation in Malaysia.

SSDI Flag waving in Zamboanga City

2011-06-19T10:22:00.001+08:00

Bismillahirrahmannirrahim

Friday, 17 June 2011 - 8:17 am, another SSDI flag hoisted in Banua San Roque, Zamboanga City. The place where the flag hoisted was in the PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muizzuddin II Ibni Al-Marhum Datu Wasik Aranan palace.

The ceremony was attended by the PBMM Al-Sultan and his Ministers from Jolo, Tawi-Tawi and those in Zamboanga City.

This event was followed after the first and second flag hoisted in Putik and in Labuan.

The SSDI program for this year is on the run since 22 January 2011 despite various attempts from the resister to totally dismantle PBMM Sultan Bantilan’s followers and the movement.

The “No-War and Anti-Terrorism” policy of SSDI is being propagated among the Tausug Citizens of the Sultanate of Sulu Darul Islam.

PBMM Al-Sultan is currently in the vicinity with some of his ministers to wait should any indecorous action or complains from the local government of the Philippines in the city about the momentous event.

The first SSDI flag hoisted by PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muizzuddin II was in Bud Bukid Parang, Jolo on 1 April 2007.

Field Reporter: GulammurRasulu

A Forebear's Legacy

2011-06-16T22:14:00.004+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

In the Tausug society, to heal sickness using mantra in Bahasa Sug or from Qur’anic verses were and still are widely practice until today. From headache to major illnesses it is a custom of the Tausug to visit first the guru or traditional healer to consult for mystical connection of the problem before to consult the doctor. As traditional healer discovers there’s an occult link to it, the sick man would continue to seek the service of the healer. If the traditional doctor successfully heals the disease, he would not anymore go to the medical doctor rather he would be dependent to former on any problem arise in the future.

The most common maladies heal through the traditional way are the sicknesses which have link to spiritual world, such the Sukut Kaja [Prayer obligation], Busung [anathemise], Siyuran Saytan atawa Jinn [Infiltrated by evil or genie], Kangug [Insane] and others. These sorts of maladies would be treated in accordance with the know-how and aptitude of the traditional healer. If the healer is expert the sick would be easily threatened.

The effective healers are those pious persons who have deep knowledge about Islam. The typical are the friends of Allah such as the wali, shaykh or mursyid of certain tariqah [way] and etc. The common example in the Tausug society was Allahyarham Tuan Hadji Gulam Hassan al-Bikangi and others who have been given by Allah SWT a magical hand to heal the impossible malady.

The verses of the Qur’an are one of the sources which had given by Allah SWT illimitable power or aura which able to cure minor to major illnesses. One of the effective verses is the Opening chapter of the Qur’an – the Al-Fatiha. This verse if to read before the water, the water would be filled with nur [light] thus it has the ability to cure some illnesses.

Modern way of producing water with aura from Qur'anic Verses

As mentioned by Abduldaem Al-Kaheel on his website that “Water molecules shape changes when exposed to sound; thus, sound greatly affects the water we drink. If you recite the Koran on water, its characteristics would change and it would carry the Koran effect to every cell in the body causing them to heal! In the picture, we see a frozen water molecule; the electromagnetic field around this molecule changes continuously because of the sound effect.”

Thus if we infer based on our narrow understanding based on Al-kaheel researched, the Tausug forebears even by just doing kimut-kimut or chant to the water the stomach ache, headache, toothache and others would be relieved. The most important, the chanter would not swerve on his Ma’rifa that the one who give power is Allah SWT.

Insya’Allah let’s practice to heal our sickness through the power of verses in the Qur’an. Just slightly check your intention and aqeedah, Allah will then do the rest to let us enjoy the healing power of His words in the Qur’an. For the major illnesses, if our trust to Allah is strong enough, we can witness all changes inside us but if not do consult some experts to guide you for internal or spiritual healing of your problem. May Allah guide us always and make us among His trusted servant.

Yazir Rajim

The Molbog and Jama Mapun [Last Chapter]

2011-06-12T22:28:00.001+08:00

The Molbog (Melebognon) on the other hand, has been touted to have come nearby North Borneo, so much so that even the Spaniards had mistaken them to be related to Orang Tindug (Camucone), an Islamized Indigene group, native to the northeast coast of Sabah.

At a closer look, some Sama words (of the Jama Mapun variant) and Tausug words are found in the Molbog dialect. One should not wonder, for in the past, both the Molbog and the Palawanon Muslims were ruled by the Sulu datus, thus forming the outer political periphery of the Sulu Sultanate. Intermarriage between Tausug and the Molbog hastened the Islamization of the latter. The offspring of these intermarriage are known as “kolibugan half-breed”.

Molbog are concentrated in Balabak Island and are also found on other islands off the coast of Palawan as far north as Panakan. The word Molbog is derived from the word “malubog” meaning murky of turbid water. In the past Tausug traders traveling between Brunei, Palawan and Sulu Archipelago usually made stop over at the Balabak for replenishment of their food and water supplies most of the time.

Accordingly, these Sulu travelers found Balabak’s sea water surroundings the river-mouth communities of the island very murky due to flood water flowing from the interior. And because of this, the Tausug, followed by the others lately, started to refer to Balabak as “Malubugon” and its inhabitants as Mulbog, from which, perhaps by sound shifting if mispronouncing, the present form Molbog developed (Revelli, 1982:2).

K – The Jama Mapun – like the badjao, Jama Mapun is another Sama sub-group. Their dialect is known as pullon mapun, which is accordingly, a part of the Sama language. Since their location is in the western side of Sulu and Tawi-tawi, obviously, the term Mapun stands for it – west.

Principally, the Jama Mapun is concentrated in Cagayan de Tawi-tawi (formerly Cagayan de Sulu), just off the coast of Borneo, and the Island Municipality of Turtle Island.

Cultured like the Bangingi and the Sama group, Jama Mapun adopts permanent settlement, a clear cut social organization. They have a Panglima (equivalent to a governor) at the helm and other leader the community who takes order from the Sultan of Sulu.

In the history of the Mulims’ struggle against colonial power, the Mapuns stands as sea warriors or rowers of battle ship, form part of the military forces of the Sultan during raids to Spanish held territories in the central and northern Philippines.

With the creation of the province of Tawi-tawi in 1973 by taken then President Marcos, the whole of Cagayan de Tawi-tawi stand as a single local government unit. It is very strategic because of its location – bordering the South China Sea, adjacent to the State of Sabah. The government has constructed an airport there for easy troop’s movement in the south, in case of eventualities with the neighboring countries in the south.

As of today, the Mapuns conduct business activities more often with Sabah rather than the Philippines. Malaysian dollar and Philippines Pesos is accepted as legal tender there.

Conclusion

The term branding the Tausugs as the people of the Current and Tau Maisug are very appropriate. For there are millions of Muslims, Lumads, and High-Landers occupying in the Sultanate of Sulu.

Dominant among these were the Tausugs whose colorful past, cannot just be ignored.

The term Sultanate of Sulu is historically significant and it transcends social boundaries as this was the label used by the Moro National Liberation Front in its struggle for self-determination.

All in all, the Tausug has a very colorful past. Hence, the study of these people is must for every inhabitant of Sulu Sultanate.

Author’s Note

All praise and thanks belong to Allah,the Lord of the Universe alone.

Blessings and peace be upon the last of the messengers and Prophets Muhammad his family, his Companions and all who follows his footprints till the end of the Universe.

It is my sincere hope that readers will benefit from this article –This article strives to help us WHO WE ARE, a proud Tau Maisug, nevertheless, this article is not only for Tausugs but suitable for all readers. While writing it, I took consideration of feelings and emotions that are common to all. I wrote based on the true Religion that is whether we deviate from it or not, intrinsic to us all. I do hope, though, that you will be just in your judgment and that your bias will be to knowledge that is correct.

I dedicate this article to the “Man of the Hour”, Prof. ALLING H. ARSAD for his full support and his friendship throughout the years have greatly enriched my life. Finally, to tuan Yaz who accepted me as his friend and believed on my talent while writing this article to his blog, This article is my LIFE.

Salaam…

Quezona Naifah Sanguila Sulog aka Dayang Naifah

The Badjao and Yakan

2011-06-11T13:50:00.001+08:00

He argued that the Badjao, the Sama, and the Luwa’an call the Tausug, of all name --- “A’as Suq”. The Chinese in Sulu on the other hand, called the Tausug as “Taus Suq”, which indicate market scenarios. Suwq or Suuq is Arabic for Market. Because not all people pronounce the same word exactly as it should be pronounce, the original “Suuq” eventually became Sug, and hence, the Tausug means “People of the Market” (Arsad, 2003:9-11)

Sama, Badjao and Bangingi- the Sama group are mainly in the Sulu Archipelago and Tawi -tawi and in various localities in the coastal areas of the Zamboanga Peninsula. The name Sama is derived from the word sama-sama which means "together". This denotes feeling of unity, cooperative success, group homogeneity, and very close family ties, a characteristic which they value most in their culture. (Abbahil 1984:211)

While many other people did not identify "Bangingi" as among the original 13 Islamized group, it is my conviction as reader of tausug history that the "Bangingi" had been Islamized hand-in-hand with the Tausug and the Sama. In fact, Bangingi played a pivotal role in the struggle against foreign dominions, notably the Spaniards.

The tradition (salsila) of the Sama is spoken daily on “Haw hawo” meaning “very far and fading out” (haw-haw in Tausug). This term by sound shift must have come from the Indonesian or Malaysian word “Jau” which means far away.

The Sama people were the youngest Malaysian migrants to the island. The Sama came many years before 1200A.D. but the greatest number who made settlement were between 1200 A.D. and 1300 A.D.

The Badjao on the other hand are the "danakans (brothers) of the Sama. They are called Badjaw, by the Malay, "Pala-o by the Sama and Luwa'an by the Tausugs. (Kurais 11, 1979-7-16)

"One Muhammedan must be especially mentioned, the Samals, often known as the "sea gypsies" from their wandering maritime habits. They live either on the immediate shore or outright on the boats, and do not practice agriculture and derived their living from fishing, trade, or piracy. Both groups Badjao or "Samal Laut", the sea people. Both groups generally acknowledged the suzerainty of the Sultan of Sulu and furnished and mainstay of the crews on his expeditions. They are extremely interesting people of a house inner made of live very little in known.

Yakan - they are native of Basilan, and mostly found in the interior of the Province. On closer examination, the Yakan may not be a truly distinct ethnic group but rather a subgroup of the Sama, a larger ethno linguistic group of Bangsamoro (Abbahil 1984:208). They speak a dialect of Sama language (Sinama or Siama), and to a lesser extend Tausug language and are culturally influences in some respect by the Tausug.

This is not surprising, since etymological development occurs simultaneously with the contact with other people. The tausug, Sama, Bangingi and Yakans had been in close contact with each other since the age of the Sultanate.

Traditionally, the Yakan, formed part of the Sulu Sultanate and the Sulu Cultural World. They are land bound agriculturist cultivating upland rice, corn and other crops. They do not normally live in compact villages but build their houses just out of sight of each other scattered among their plots of farmlands.

According to Dean Calbi A. Asain, the word “Basilan” comes from “Basi” meaning “iron” and “Lan” meaning “way or road” which is done to the Tausug.

The prominent person in each community of Yakan is the Imam who combines both religious and socio-political leadership. This makes the Yakan community distinct from Maguindanaon, Maranao, and Tausug communities where the Datu is the socio-politico leader.

In the early days of the Sultanate, particularly in the reign of Sultan Harun Al-Rashid had established his court in Palawan, then transferred to Dungun in Tawi-tawi, where he, according to tradition breath his last.

The states of Palawan, according to Sultanate system of arrangement, stands to overseer the Visayas and Luzon and take orders directly to the Sultan of Sulu. Thus, may be the heavy influence of the Tausug of their culture.

In recent political history of the Muslims in Palawan, two of the elective mayors of Batarasa were Tausugs.

As a result, of the close contact of the Tausug the Islamization of these tribes could have came from Tausug missionaries, reinforce of course by missionary activities from Borneo.

Dayang Naifah

Tau Maisug (brave people)

2011-06-09T13:23:00.003+08:00

Readers as well are tempted to theorized that indeed, Tausug means "brave people" since then fought the Spaniards for more than three hundred years. They proved too strong for the Spaniards, and too disturbing for the Americans. The Tausug fought the Americans for more than 20 years, and the Japanese for more than 4 years. Thought the passing of time, as this was also handed down from generation to generation, the public finds convenience in the shortcut derivative of the term, and thereby call the Tausug instead of tau maisug whenever they refer to the courageous people of Sulu.

Taa Usug (man/leadership) theory- By and large, the Tausug society is patriarchal in character. A patriarchal system looks at man as the "Pillar of Society", a leader and a decision maker. In other words, it is a male dominated society.

Customarily, a man is always looked up to in the society to resolve conflicts like family feuds, wedding agreement, eloping and abducting cases and other societal concerns. A decision to consummate a wedding contract must be the decision of male relatives (Usbah) from the father side. If a male relative (waris) from the mother side is consulted, in a decision, it is a matter of formality, and a show of respect.

In a verbal altercation involving male and female for example, the male party will always require : "kawa’ kaw usug" (get me a male counterpart, to show pitiful respect for the woman) or'" hundung kaw, lumugay makapa usug na in parkala" (shot up, otherwise, this will become a male issue). Used in this sense that it will reach the attention of a leader. Hence, if one tends to be abusive, one is counseled: "hundung kaw, taa-usug ha hulah ini! (behave or your misdemeanor will reach the attention of a leader.)

Ahlus Suluk ( Followers of straight path)theory -Sulu has always been considered a hallowed ground, a holy place. The sufi schools and disciples of this path considered coming to Sulu as a holy venture and staying in the place for a religious retreat as a great personal accomplishment. Hence, we noticed, hordes of Sufi scholars came here, and by stroke of fate, they got married to the local women and raised a Muslim family.

Junaid Al-Bagdhadi - a scholar from Baghdad believed to have lived in Bualu, Maimbung,Sulu, though not a date of his coming was recorded. Another one was Tuan Masha'ika who came to Maimbung around 1310 A.D. and married to a member of a ruling family there. Sultan Awliya Abdulqadir Jailani- leader of all Awliya had also visited the place. Zain-al Abidin, the father of the First Sultan of Sulu, after living for sometime in Buansa, Indanan,Sulu, went to Maimbung, and from there, exited to Malacca. He was the one who brought to Sulu the so -called "Hidden Knowledge" in Islam. (Dr. Bara 2005)

Syeikh Abdulqadir Jailani

The Suq-Sug (Market) theory - in the 80's Dr. Ben Kadil argued that it must not be translated that way, instead, it must be translated to "People of the Market" and because not all people pronounced, the original "Suq" eventually became sug, and hence, the tausug means "People of the Market. (Arsad 2003):

To be continued...

Dayang Naifah

Pagduwaa Kaja: Old Folks Perspective

2011-06-09T10:20:00.013+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Buranun and Sharif [have an Arab Bloodline link to the Ba’lawi] are an ethnics in the Sultanate of Sulu do the Pagduwaa Kaja. The way that open this practice to these ethnics according to historian way back to the Sultan Shariful Hashim era, when he preached Islam to this hilly people [Buranun]. Some local says this practice served as a replacement instead of giving dowry to the only daughter of Sheikh Makhdum in Sulu. It was then the subsequent generation of the Buranun and Sharif devotedly practicing this adat until now.

Pagduwaa Kaja is a form of Prayer conducted at the Shrine of Ahlul Bayt. The shrine called in Bahasa Sug as Tampat. Most of the known tampat were located at the zenith of hills or mountains in the entire Sulu. The common mountains and hills always hike by the observers of this adat are the Bud Tapul, Bud Kaha, Bud Datu, Bud Bongao, Bud Siasi, Bud Tumantangis, Bud Pata and others. Some tampat which located in lowland, the most popular are in Tubig Laya, Patikul, Pasil, Bualu’ and other parts of Sulu Archipelago. Most of the people buried in these hills, mountains and lowland were the Awliyah and Scholars.

Most people to do this pagduwaa are to ask help from the buried Awliya [istigatha] and to avoid the obligation prayer [sukut]. It is believed by traditional Sunni scholars that the karamah of the Awliya’ [special power endowed by Allah to his beloved] during their lifetime would not be decreased even after their demise. As mentioned below:

“...I have proven in another book that the awliya' possess karamat after they die, too."[46] The Hanafi scholar Ahmad ibn Sayyid Muhammad al-Makki al-Hamawi and the Shafi'i scholars Ahmad ibn Ahmad as-Sujai and Muhammad ash-Shawbari al-Misri wrote booklets in which they proved with evidence that awliya' possessed karamat, that their karamat continued after their death, and that tawassul or istighatha [see below] at their graves was permitted (jaiz).[47]”[1]

Pagduwaa kaja will be practiced when a newly couple begot a child. Afterwards there are schedule to be followed for continues observation of this adat. The next schedule is when the couple have first grandson of their first child.

The foods and thing to be brought to the tampat are yellow rice, Piyanggang Manuk [traditional roasted chicken] and coconut Shell which would be used as plate and for drinking water. The cook allowed to prepare the food must be clean from any dirt both physical and spiritual. The purpose is to keep away all unclean things.

During the Ligu’ [ritual to sprinkle water at the back of persons usually done by the imam] the imam will tell the spirits responsible for the prayer that the family of so and so have performed what has been due to them[2]. On this part the imam will make a Tawassul and Istigatha. After the couple and their child done with Ligu’, the imam will then start the prayer beside the tomb. All good things in this world and in the hereafter are beseech by the Imam. And all illnesses and problems of the family will be prayed to Allah with the recommendation of his beloved such as Sayyidina Muhammad saw, Sahaba and the Awliya.

After the prayer all foods brought should be eaten by the couple and their child. On that part, to talk is seriously prohibited. If one want to request for something must be done through hand language.

Sufi in Uzbekistan pray at the Awliyah Shrine

As all rituals been done the family will be asked to leave the shrine without turning their faces back to the shrine. It is believed once the doer would look back they would be reminded [sukut] again to do another pagduwaa.

Mock of the Najdis

The Tausug who are practicing this adat were labelled by the Najdis as polytheist, innovator, grave worshipper and other derision. The fact is that those Tausug being mocked have in mind that all scholars were in agreement to go against them. Thus, as a challenge, the old folks would advise their progenies to get rid of the new belief brought by the ustadz [wahabbism] educated in Saudi Arabia, for they are here – according to them - to spifflicate the practice of Islam introduced to the forebears.

Some old folks’ progenies who have narrow understanding of Islam saw this practice negatively. They regarded all practices of the old folks were unaccepted thus must be Islamized if not Wahabbized. As they always believe any practices which had not done by Prophet Muhammad and the Sahaba are innovation, thus innovator would be gone to hell.

This Najdis or Hanabilah Mujassima had been regarded by Sheikh Al-Azhar Dr. Ahmad al-Tayyib as Neo-Khawarij. They are the source of fitna in this contemporary world. Anywhere, in the world they have the same approach – harsh and suspicious. As what they believed all Muslims for 600 years had been committing polytheism. To read more what this group is telling to the world please visit this site http://www.hizmetbooks.org .

May Allah increase the love of the Tausug to the Ahlul Bayt of Rasulullah! Ameen.

Yazir Rajim

[1] http://www.hizmetbooks.org/Sunni_Path/suwahhab.htm

[2] Ibid, A hadith ash-Sharif says, "After my death, I will hear as I do when I am alive." Another hadith ash-Sharif reported by Abu Yala says, "Prophets ('alaihimu 's-salam) are alive in their graves. They perform salat." Ibrahim ibn Bishar and Sayyid Ahmad ar-Rifai and many awliya (rahimahum-Allahu ta'ala) said that they had heard a reply after they had greeted Rasulullah (sall-Allahu 'alaihi wa sallam).

TAUSUG [People of the Current]

2011-06-08T17:54:00.007+08:00

"History can never forget the Moro [Tausug],

for they did something in the 1500's, 1600's

1700's and clear down into 1800's that was

supposed to be impossible. They proved to

be too strong for the Spanish Conquestadores "

Vic Hurley Swish of the Kris,1935

It is therefore the purpose of this article to elucidate that Tausugs are real. We are bounty bound to clarify the authenticity of the historical Tausugs people so that others not in the academe will know.

The Tausugs are grand people. They have great historical legacy. Their lot had been etched in blood. Their struggle against the Spaniards alone, to maintain their freedom and independence of their homeland the superiority of their enemy militarily and resource-wise, they stood fat and remained. Their religion survived.

Art by Rameer Tawasil .. A Buranun Woman

Accordingly, the Tausugs are Muslims and the race of all ethnics in the Sultanate of Sulu. The Tausugs, by physical character and culture, belongs in general, to the Malay race and the Malay culture. In their literatures or tarsilas the Tausugs do not consider themselves as earthlings, but a higher form of life descended from god-like men.

In their traditional genealogy, the Tausug claimed high birth from Tuan Masha'ika, who is the son of a god and a goddes, Jamiyun Kulisa and Indira Suga, whose marriage rain fell and life was so imparted to the soil the plant grew.

Historically, the Tausug and their tribal kin in the Sulu Archipelago, including Palawan, Zamboanga Peninsula and Davao linked lineage to the Prophet through Sultan Shariful Hashim Sayyid Abubakar Ibni Zainal Abidin.

The present -day Tausug are descendants of different ethnic groups and nationalities that migrated to Sulu Archipelago over a span of time in the past. Sulu Salsilah and tradition speak of a Buranun, Taguimaha, Baklaya, Orang Dampuan and the Orang Banjar as the earliest migrants to the archipelago.

Art by Rameer Tawasil - The Badjao Ethnic

For one, the Tagimaha, (the Party of Protector) came from Basilan, but their origin was from Mindanao. They settled in Buwansa (present day Jolo), The Baklaya (sea Shore dwellers) settled in the area of what is Patikul. They were believed to be coming from the celebes (now Sulawesi) in Indonesia. Orang Dampuan were from Champa, an ancient Indo-Chinese kingdom formerly located in what is now Vietnam. The Orang Banjar, whose queen married the Sulu chief, came from Banjarmasin in what is today Kalimatan in Indonesia.

The Buranun (Mountain residents) are believed to be forerunners of the Sulu nobility today. Tuan Masha'ika, Datu Sipad and Datu Naruanga were the most notable descendants of the group who organized a proto-Tausug Sultanate form of government based in what is today Maimbung.

As traders, the Dampuans and the Banjarmasins may have just come and gone from Sulu, such that it will be very hard to trace their remnants today. However, it was believed that the settled Buranuns, Tagimaha and the Baklaya due to the fact that they lived in the same small Jolo island, were brought closely together assimilated each other and became the single Tausug ethnic group today – this is how the people of today understood.

The four tribes thus brought so closely together mixed very intimately and later lost their identity in the development of a single nation, which reached its maturity under the guidance of a Mohammedan master. In Spite of later immigration to the island and in spite of conquest and defeat, the national character thus formed has remained unchanged throughout history and the Sulu (meaning Tausug) of today will remain that same individuality which he acquired in his earlier days.

From this explanation, we can infer that the shaping of a single Tausug nationality out of different ethnic groupings was made possible through the works of centralized Muslim leadership- THE SULTANATE, and the unifying character of the religion- Islam.

The word Tausug signifies two things: first, it is the recognition of the geographic character of Suluano homeland- Sulu Archipelago which lies in the path of vigorous tidal currents flowing from the Sulu and china seas to the Celebes sea and vice-versa and the fact that practically all the ethnic groups in the Sultanate are sea oriented : sailor tarders, fishermen, pearl divers, seaweeds collectors and so forth.

Therefore, they should be named TAUSUG "THE PEOPLE OF THE CURRENT" second, it is an acknowledgement of the fact that they posses as unquestionable courage and bravery, therefore they are TAU MAISUG (Brave People)

The Tausug classify themselves into three geographical groupings- The Tau gimba (people of the interior) who occupy the interior of Jolo island where they are agriculturist cultivating upland rice, cassava, vegetables, fruit trees and coconut and abaca for cash crops. The Tau Higad (people of the coast) who live in the coastal area and port towns of Jolo Island, and the tau puh (people from the island) who inhabit the other islands in the archipelago beyond Jolo. Both Tau Higad and Tau puh engaged in fishing, farming and trading.

I once discussed theories on explaining the term Tausug to a dear friend, Prof Alling Arsad and he presented this:

Land of the current theory - Sulu being archipelagic, is sorrounded by strong sea-current especially along the coasts of the group Pilas islands and islets lying in the northwest.The Kapual group and islets lying in the northeast and the Tapiantana clusters of islands and islets where the sea current is said to eddying and quite dangerous for the uninitiated.

to be continued..

Dayang Naifah

Parakala' Pagtiyaun

2011-06-06T12:21:00.002+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Tausug community have its distinct tradition different from other customs of the people in Likusantara; one of the known but unique practices is the parakala’ pagtiyaun or wedding celebration or party. This tradition though not constantly adhering to the old practices, the differences just slightly on some adapted practices and initiatives of the doer.

Most of the time, this tradition is carry out at home; the relatives, neighbours friends and both families of the bride and groom are invited to make the party jocund. Most of the closest kin are among the strong supporter to prepare for any work, specifically on carpentry, kitchen, and decor. In the carpentry, the closest kin and nearby neighbours who have skills would help to repair the house, bridge and other parts which serve as importance to the occasion. The kitchen matters would be entrusted to a member of the family, kin or neighbours who have skills to cook Tausug delicacies. Sometimes the family would hire Tausug cook enable the food to be prepared would satiate the mangluluruk or attendees. The decor would be hired which includes to beautify the bride and groom.

The parakala’ pagtiyaun is a form of social gathering and getting together of the member of the families and people in the community. Through this occasion, we can witness the strong fabric of a Tausug community, where every attendee brings his earnest support such as gift or cash in an envelope. If the attendee invited by the family of the groom, he must at least bring a cash in an envelope, the amount would depend on the amount owed to him by the invitee. But if the invitation is from the bride’s family the attendee should have at least a gift to present. Though giving of gift to the bride is not oblige by the bride’s family, giving a gift has become a newly trend in Tausug wedding.

The important part of this occasion is the magsasagina or the person welcomes the attendees, so that every attendee would feel the importance of their presence.

On the night side, the wedding party would be resumed with the presence of local band, organ (refers to a group who played traditional music of the badjao [igal-igal] with a keyboard instrument), Maggagabbang [Traditional music sang by minimum of four persons [setting face to face] in front of xylophone made from bamboo and violin] and other traditional entertainer.

Tiyula' Itum [Edited]*

2011-06-04T07:03:00.004+08:00

Tiyula’ itum is the best among the Tausug viands. The origin of this food is not yet known even among the Tausug, but people believed the tiyula’ itum is really a Tausug cuisine because of the presence of the burned coconut.

Tiyula itum is believed to increase libido also increases high blood pressure. Tiyula’ itum is a combination of the word tula’ and itum. Tula’ is cooking with soup and itum is black because of the burned coconut as the main ingredient being mixed to the meat.

Tiyula’ itum is always cooked in the famous occasions of the Tausug. And it is also the main viand place at the center of the tray together with different recipes.

Follow the steps below to make a delicious Tiyula itum.

INGREDIENTS:

1 kg. Beef

Turmeric - 2 thumbs

Ginger - 2 thumbs

White Ginger - 4 thumbs

Lemongrass - 4 pieces

Burned coconut - ½ coconut

Coconut milk - 1 ½ liter

Onion - 1 piece

Black pepper - 25 ml or ½ teaspoon

Vinegar - enough to wash the meat

Msg. (optional)

Salt to taste

Chili pepper (optional) - 10 pieces

Garlic - 5 cloves

Oil - 3 tablespoons

Sugar - 1 teaspoon

Guava leaves (optional) - 3 pieces

METHOD:

Slice the meat into cubes

Wash the meat with water then finally the vinegar

Pound the burned coconut, lemongrass, black pepper, white ginger, ginger, turmeric, chili pepper, garlic separately, with pestle on mortar.

Mix the meat with burned coconut and 1 tablespoon of oil.

Squeeze the turmeric and produce at least 1/8 cup of its juice.

Squeeze the ginger also produce 1/8 cup of its juice.

Squeeze the white ginger and produce ¼ cup of its juice.

Heat the pan or small caldron

Put 2 tablespoon oil

Sauté the onion first then garlic until its color turn to brown.

Add the lemongrass and black pepper and mix them well.

Place the meat on the sauteed spices.

Allow to boil the mixture for 5 minutes don’t mix yet.

Cover the pan or small caldron.

If the meat is easily to tear off pour the turmeric, ginger and white ginger juices to a mixture. Mix the mixture thoroughly. Then add chili pepper and guava leaves.

Let it boiled for 3 minutes then add the coconut milk.

Allow to boil for 5 – 10 minutes.

Add salt and msg. if the meat is already cooked. After adding salt let it boils for another 3 minutes.

Do not add salt at the beginning.

*This entry was taken from Kakaun Sug: Beyond Recipes, Where the Courageous Tausug starts Manuscript authored by Sharif Aliazer Sharif Abdurajim, edited by Neldy Jolo

Good Only Begets Good

2011-06-03T21:03:00.004+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

People are not all the same in matters on temporal aspect. Each of them has their respective ambition, like, favourite and taste. Sometimes a person viewed this life depends on the environment where he lived, faith he believed, family he rose and school where he educated. Despite of the richness of human’s activities and perceptions; they are all bounded by two opposite traits - “Good and bad”. A baby born into this world innately has these attributes. If a child bring up in a good family his future would be filled with handsome attribute, but if he is bring up in a bad family a big tendency he would become bad.

According to Tausug phratries, Sultanate of Sulu before the advent of foreign invaders was already a haven of peaceful people because they had brought up within the environment where Islam serves as the official religion. Their every day transaction concentrated on livelihood and observed the basic teachings of Islam. The Tausug became peaceful people because of the deep influence of mystical practices introduced by the Ahlul Bayt in the Sultanate of Sulu. The teachings of Islam introduced to the Tausug were the same as what had been practice by Prophet Muhammad during his time – the teaching full of love and gentleness. It is believed, after the demise of Prophet Muhammad 1400 years ago the trust to spread and exemplified Islam were handed down to his Ahlul bayt and other scholars and pious who practice moderation in their lives.

Hadhrat Zaid bin Arqam (Radhi Allahu Ta'ala 'Anhu) reported Allah's Messenger (Sall Allahu alaihi wa Aalihi wa Sallim) as saying, "I am leaving among you something of such a nature that if you lay hold of it you will not go astray after I am gone, one part of it being more important than the other: Allah's Book, a rope stretched from heaven to earth, and my close relatives who belong to my household. These two will not separate from one another till they come down to the Pond, so consider how you would act regarding them after my departure." (Sahih Tirmidhi)

As the invaders disturbed the Sultanate of Sulu the some peaceful Tausug became hawkish. The word “Kafir” was anathema to their ears. The garrison of the enemy had become their easiest portal to heaven, as simple as tax thing the Tausug in the past did not crouch to the demand of their enemy. It’s not that the Tausug became warlike because that’s how Islam taught them to be, but it was the right of the Tausug to do so enable to defend their homeland from interlopers. To love a country is a basic right of each people, any countries regardless of religion if infiltrated by foreigners they really do the same as what the Tausug were doing in defending their country.

Uncle Sam's soldiers proudly standing in front of Innocent Tausug civilians corpse

How the world hegemony of today mould the mind setting of the people of the world. They taught the people to do what is good, but their activity throughout the world is antagonist to what they relay. They say that the Abu Sayyaf is a terrorist, but during the Bud Dahu massacre where Thousand of Tausug including women and children died on the creek through American hands but did they consider those act as a form of terror? Terrorism of today is regarded as the best weapon enable to justify the infiltration to any part of this world – this is a general view. The most important, you can form or train a religious like group, afterwards put them in their respective place for the continuous operation. From 5 to 10 years span the group formed will be vanished from this world but the master plan of the great deceivers successfully done.

What does this mean to you?

American soldiers nowadays are plenty in Jolo Islands. The innocent Tausug thought this Uncle Sam’s soldiers back to Sulu for humanitarian purposes - this have been proven through projects under USAID. Though the Tausug masses regard it like that, in the future this program would become another problem in this part of the world - for there's no reason for the American to spend billions of dollars without any benefit out of it in return? The worries loom because there are thousands Tausug out there who have similar thinking as Panglima Hassan and other Bud Dahu martyred – who loved to die in battle for the sake of justice and freedom. If for instance, the American forces came with the agenda to usurp what is due to the Tausug and the Sultanate of Sulu, another Bud Dahu massacre would be happening in Jolo Island? Hopefully, this would not be happening.

Should the American government truly well educated and champion of democracy they must show to the world their being human and civilized citizens on earth. If it is right, good only begets good the American must prove to the Tausug their sincerest action to ultimately help them to solve the root causes to their problem – restoration of the Sultanate of Sulu.

May peace reign once more in this part of the World!

Rajab: The Month of Isra Wal Mi'raj

2011-06-01T17:45:00.006+08:00

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Narrated Abdullah ibn Mas’ood (radiyallahu anhu): “The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “On the night of my Ascension (Miraaj) I met Ibraheem (radiyallahu anhu) and he said to me: “Muhammad (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam), Convey my salaam to your people and tell them that Paradise is a vast plain of pure soil and sweet water and its trees cry: ‘Holy is Allah, all praise is due to Allah, there is none worthy of worship save Allah, and Allah is Great.” [at-Tirmidhee no: 1445] Continue reading...

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Tausug are indeed impregnable followers of Islam. From small matters to bigger, it is their tradition to consult first the Takwim or Hijri Calendar before to launch any business, start to move to a newly house, to find the best day for marriage ceremony, to seek knowledge and many more. There are many secrets of choosing the right day and month in Hijra Calendar.

On this special Takwim month of Rajab has been chosen to remind the Muslim world and the Tausug in particular the value of this month. How this month contributes to the life of humankind? In Islam it was here where life of a man reach the stage of perfection, the Isra Wal Mi’raj, should the wisdom behind this journey well decipher by every sane Muslim and Mu’min.

May Allah shower His blessing to the Muslim Ummah and protect them from the fitna of Dajjal. May Allah’s strong support always with the Tausug who are supporting the restoration of the Sultanate of Sulu. May Allah inspire the Sultan of Sulu, PBMM Al-Sultan Bantilan Muizzuddin II with the divine knowledge. Ya Allah by the virtue of this month and the baraka of our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW, do accept our plea. Ameen