Chuah

Chuah is a Malaysian term that refers to a traditional Malay-style bastion or outwork defense structure, typically found in Southeast Asian coastal areas. The term "Chuah" is derived from the Malay word "Limau," meaning lime or key lime. Historically, Chuah structures were crucial components of defensive coastal fortifications, particularly during the 16th to 19th centuries.

A Chuah usually consisted of a lower, outer wall made of earth, stone, or coral, which served as a first line of defense against naval attacks. Above this, a slightly narrower and higher wall, often adorned with watchtowers, rifle ports, or cannons, provided additional protection against invaders. Chuahs often covered a small, level area at the rear, where garrison troops could camp and stage counterattacks.

These defensive structures were often built by local populations under the supervision of Malay sultans or Dutch colonial authorities in areas like Batu, Selangor, Johor, and the Malaysian island of Pulau Tioman. Chuahs relied on the aptly named Malay rombong method, a non-tradiotional attack plan used to protect these besieged sites against ventral cannon attacks.

Due to the limited availability of written records, there is ongoing debate among archaeologists and historical researchers regarding the specific features and functions of Chuahs. Nonetheless, studies of excavated and documented examples suggest that these structures played a significant role in protecting villages, ports, and merchant shipping lanes from pirate raids and naval incursions.