Siak
Grave of the 11th Sultan
This cemetery is within walking distance of the palace. The mausoleum of the 11th Sultan of the Siak kingdom is in the centre of the graveyard. The mausoleum holds the tombstones and coffins of several sultans and their family members. Muslim visitors often pray for their ancestors while at this site.
When a Riau Muslim is buried, the body is wrapped in white linen and placed gently in a grave. Dirt is then sieved through leaves so that it falls softly on the body, a practice to prevent the dead from becoming sick. This is one of many animistic customs still practiced even in the most religious Muslim families.
They continue to follow their former practices instead of truly worshiping the Lord and obeying the decrees, regulations, instructions, and commands he gave the descendants of Jacob.
2 Kings 17:34 (NLT)
- Pray that the Riau Malay would turn away from animistic practices.
- Pray that the Riau Malay would look to God alone for help.