Large lantaka with Jawi script engraved

[Pangeran Datu]

Originally Posted by cannonmn

>No Moro at all.

Maybe I assumed too much. I guess I need to know more about exactly what the title "Datu" indicates. I thought it was unique to Moros, but if not, someone please let me know.

If there is any place to look up this particular, named Datu, please let me know-would like to know where he lived and when.

Hi,
Just my two-bobs' worth:
'Datu' had/has various meanings, depending on the time and region (throughout the South-east Asian archipelago) of usage. It can mean anything from a village chief to a king (cf. 'raja', 'tumenggung). Remember, in the past, it was easy for anyone to open up an area (in fact, quite customery for members of a ruling family) and set up a 'state' and give himself/herself any title... woe betide that person should some existing ruler challenge that title!
In some areas, 'datu' is even accepted to be the origin of 'ratu' (king).

Cheers.