Turkiye has reaffirmed its commitment to Southeast Asia’s historical and cultural narrative with the launch of Studies on the Relations Between the Ottoman Empire and Southeast Asia.
The book, published under the auspices of Turkiye’s Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), unveils centuries-old ties rooted in trade, religion and diplomacy -- recasting the region’s connection with the Ottoman Empire.
Turkish Ambassador to Malaysia, Emir Salim Yuksel, hailed the publication as a milestone in understanding Turkiye’s historical bond with Southeast Asia, with Malaysia holding a distinct place in this shared legacy.
“The book offers a remarkable exploration of the historical, cultural, and political ties between the Ottoman Empire and Southeast Asia.
“Despite the physical distance between Türkiye and this region, a profound spiritual bond has always existed. This precious connection, enriched through shared values, continues to inspire collaboration and friendship.”
Yuksel said this while addressing an audience of diplomats, academics, and professionals during the book’s launch held at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), on Wednesday.
Also present were the Dean of ISTAC-IIUM, Professor Datuk Dr Abdelaziz Berghout, and Vice-President of the YTB, Murat Kazancı.
Yuksel also highlighted Turkiye’s strategic focus on Asia, calling it a region brimming with potential for deeper partnerships.
He pointed to the Asia Anew Initiative, launched in 2019, as a testament to Turkiye’s vision for fostering robust political, economic, and cultural ties with countries in Asia.
“In this regard, Malaysia holds a very special place. Our connection with Malaysia did not begin in 1964 when we established diplomatic relations, nor in 1957 when Turkiye officially recognised Malaysia's independence. It dates back centuries, to the 16th century.
“Since then, the relationship between Turkiye and Malaysia has been a story of friendship and brotherhood, strengthened by our shared faith, which fosters a unique bond of affection and solidarity,” he said.
Yuksel further noted that Turkiye remains committed to advancing its socio-cultural engagement with Malaysia and the region, describing academic collaboration as a cornerstone of this effort.
“Academic partnerships, such as this project, allow us to revisit and reinterpret our historical connections with new perspectives. They also enable us to build sustainable frameworks for future cooperation in education, research, and culture.
“This book not only sheds light on the past but also lays the foundation for Turkiye’s relationship with this region to grow stronger and more comprehensive.
“By examining our shared history through an academic perspective, it becomes a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in our common heritage,” he added.
Meanwhile, Kazancı said historical and cultural relations between Turkiye and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, hold great importance due to the region’s rich heritage and openness to diversity.
He described the book as an exemplary outcome of rigorous research and collaboration with leading academics from Turkiye and the region.
“It is an honour to see Turkiye’s unique place within Southeast Asia’s vibrant history and to feel that this sense of connection is mutual,” he said, adding that the book sheds light on lesser-known aspects of the Ottoman Empire’s influence in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Kazancı said the publication, based on extensive archival research, serves as both a guide and a reference for future studies, enhancing the appreciation of the region’s shared history with Turkiye.
The book compiles compelling articles from scholars across Turkiye and Southeast Asia, presenting insights into the political, cultural, and literary dynamics that once linked the Ottoman Empire to this region.
It also examines prominent figures and historical records that bridge the two geographies.