The Arrival of Malays/Muslims

In 1694, a significant event in South African history took place with the arrival of the first Muslims in Cape Town. Led by the revered Sheik Yusuf, a prominent Islamic scholar and prince from the Sultanate of Gowa in present-day Indonesia, this group of exiles was forcibly transported to the Cape Colony by the Dutch East India Company.

The town where they settled, Macassar, was named after their hometown of Makassar, spelled with a "K" in the Indonesian dialect. This coastal town, situated near the beach and on a hill, was part of the larger Klipfontein area.

According to historical records, William Adriaan, the great-great-grandfather of the Adriaan family, donated the land to Sheik Yusuf and his followers. This generous act paved the way for the establishment of the first Muslim community in South Africa.

Under Sheik Yusuf's leadership, the community built the first kramat, a sacred shrine, which became a symbol of their faith and resilience. The kramat, still standing today, serves as a poignant reminder of the community's rich history and cultural heritage.

The arrival of Sheik Yusuf and his followers marked the beginning of Islam in South Africa, shaping the country's religious landscape and cultural identity. Today, the Muslim community in South Africa continues to thrive, with a strong sense of pride and connection to their ancestral roots in Macassar.