ADMIRAL CHENG HO (ZHENG HE)

Cheng Ho (also known as Zheng He) was born in Kunyang, Yunnan around 1371AD, the fourth year of the Hong Wu reign period (1371AD) of the Ming Dynasty.

Cheng Ho was captured by Ming Dynasty forces during their defeat of the remnants of the Yuan Dynasty in Yunnan around 1381AD. He was taken to Nanjing where he was made a eunuch in the imperial service. He was then sent to Beijing to serve in the palace of Zhu Di, the Prince of Yan, fourth son of the Ming Emperor.

Cheng Ho is China’s most famous maritime explorer. His extraordinary ability and vision found brilliant expression in the great achievement of his life including maritime exploration, foreign diplomacy and military affairs. The voyages of Cheng Ho represent those that are on par with other famous travellers. Cheng Ho went on a total of 7 voyages from China and visited several countries in East Asia, South–East Asia, Sri Lanka, South India, Arabia and East Africa. Each time he sailed, he anchored in Melaka, either for short periods of time or to await a change of winds. He played a major role in the relationship between the Emperor of China, Yong Le, and the Ruler of Melaka, Parameswara. He arranged Parameswara’s trip to Darbar for Emperor Yong Le in 1411.

Cheng Ho was a very brave and ambitious traveller. His last voyage was in between 1432-1433. Although his travels were not recognized at that time, the Chinese community hails Cheng Ho as “Dewa San Poh Kong” and hero worships him.