Pahang War (1891-1895)

A more significant movement against British control occurred in Pahang. A few chieftains in the interior refused to give up their independence and power, and their resistance led to a four year war (1891-1895). 

The most vocal and well known chief was Dato Bahaman of Semantan. Things came to a head in 1891 when the Resident persuaded Sultan Ahmad to sign a decree depriving a district chief, Dato’ Bahaman, of his title. 

The latter came out in open defiance, initiating a series of armed confrontations known as the Pahang War. 

Orang Kaya Semantan, Abdul Rahman popularly known as Dato Bahaman. He was described as ‘the most expert woodsman in the peninsula’, bearing ‘a unique knowledge of jungle craft’.

In December 1891, C.E.M Desborough, Collector of the Semantan district, accompanied by a Sikh and Malay Police Force, arrested three of Brahman’s followers for unlicensed collection of jungle prodcue and refusing bail, took them to court.

Dato’ Bahaman came to their rescue, killing three policemen, capturing the Lubok Trua police station and pursuing the fleeing policemen to Temerloh.

The incident sparked a rebellion that spread rapidly over Hulu Pahang, drawing the chiefs of the Semantan, Jelai and Tembeling Rivers into the protracted Pahang War (1891-95).

Tok Gajah or Imam Perang Rasu and his son Mat Kilau, and Panglima Muda or Jempul – each with his respective grievances with the British residential system, rose in opposition.

Bahaman and his large following of Malays and Orang Asli fought the invaders with hit and run attacks on the police posts. British reinforcements were brought in form other states, and the rebels were forced into the jungle.

The Malays prepared to fight against the British in the end of 1891, and it was not until 1895 that the conflict ceased, when forces led by Hugh Clifford finally forced Bahaman across the border into Kelantan.

On one hand, the Malay chiefs would not accept the regulations put forth by the British and on the other hand, the Malays were dissatisfied with British intervention in Pahang’s politics.

There are many Malay accounts of great bravery in the face of foreign invasion, and a popular warrior Mat Kilau, became a legend during this war.
Pahang War (1891-1895)