The legend of Cik Siti Wan Kembang is one of Malaysia’s most enduring tales of female empowerment, leadership, and mysticism. She was a 17th-century queen who ruled over a region in Kelantan, known for her beauty, wisdom, and prowess on the battlefield.
The Life of a Warrior Queen
Cik Siti Wan Kembang is believed to have ruled the state of Kelantan (specifically the area known as Tanah Serendah Sekebun Bunga) from approximately 1610 to 1667.
1. Rise to Power
Following the death of her father, Raja Ahmad, Cik Siti ascended the throne at the young age of 30. Despite being a woman in a traditionally patriarchal era, she commanded immense respect. She never married, earning her the title of the "Virgin Queen of Kelantan."
2. Military Prowess
She was not just a political figurehead; she was a skilled warrior. Legends say she was an expert in Silat (Malay martial arts) and led a cavalry of female warriors. She was often seen riding horseback, dressed in male warrior attire, ready to defend her kingdom against invaders.
3. The Symbol of Kelantan: The Kijang
One of the most famous aspects of her legend is her pet Kijang (barking deer). Cik Siti was so fond of this animal that she had its likeness stamped on the gold coins (Pitis) used in her kingdom.
Modern Legacy: Today, the Kijang remains the official symbol of the State of Kelantan and is also the logo for Bank Negara Malaysia (the Central Bank).
The Mystical Departure
True to the nature of Malay legends, Cik Siti’s story does not end with a typical death. It is said that as she grew older, she decided to retreat from the world to pursue a life of spiritual devotion.
According to local folklore, she entered the forests of Gunung Ayam and vanished into the "unseen world" (alam ghaib). Many locals believe she never truly died but remains a guardian spirit of the land.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Description |
| Title | Queen of Kelantan (Tanah Serendah Sekebun Bunga) |
| Era | 17th Century |
| Notable Skill | Silat expert and horse rider |
| Legacy Symbol | The Kijang (Barking Deer) |
| Adopted Daughter | Puteri Saadong (another famous Kelantanese figure) |
Cik Siti Wan Kembang remains a symbol of sovereignty and strength for the people of Kelantan and a reminder of the powerful female rulers in Southeast Asian history.
Is she really exists?
The question of whether Cik Siti Wan Kembang "really existed" is a fascinating blend of history and folklore. Most historians view her as a semi-legendary figure—someone whose life is based on a real person, but whose story has been enhanced by centuries of oral tradition.
Here is a breakdown of what is known regarding her historical existence:
1. Historical Records
While there is no definitive archaeological "smoking gun" (like an inscription or a contemporary diary), she appears in several significant local records:
- The Kelantan Genealogy: She is listed in the Detik-detik Sejarah Kelantan (Moments in Kelantan History) as the daughter of Raja Ahmad. According to these records, she was born in 1585 and reigned from 1610 to 1667.
- Royal Lineage: She is documented as the last ruler of the line descending from Sultan Iskandar Shah, before the kingdom transitioned to the House of Jembal.
2. Tangible Evidence
There are physical "footprints" in Kelantan that support the idea of her reign:
- Kijang Coins: Gold coins known as Pitis featuring the deer motif have been recovered. While some historians link the motif to earlier Hindu influences, local tradition firmly attributes the design to Cik Siti’s favorite pet.
- Jelasin Fort: The ruins of Kota Jelasin in Kota Bharu are traditionally said to be the site of her palace and a fort built to defend the state from Siamese attacks.
- Gunung Chinta Wangsa: A mountain in Ulu Kelantan is traditionally identified as her seat of government.
3. The "Legend" Aspect
The reason she is often called a "legend" rather than just a historical queen is due to the mystical elements of her story:
- The Vanishing: There is no known tomb for her. Legend says she didn't die but "disappeared" into the mystical world (alam ghaib) at Gunung Ayam.
- Longevity: Some accounts claim she ruled for nearly 70 years and possessed supernatural powers, which are traits more common in folklore than strict historical biography.
- Timeline Variations: Some accounts place her in the 14th century (connecting her to stories told by the traveler Ibn Battuta), while others place her in the 17th century, creating chronological confusion.
Summary
In short: She likely existed as a real ruler, but the woman we know today is a "Srikandi" (heroine)—a figure whose real political achievements have been wrapped in the colorful layers of Malay mythology to represent the strength and identity of Kelantan.
Google Gemini AI
18 January 2026: 6.25 p.m
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