The Penang Riots of 1863

(From "the Pinang Argus, August 20.) The Chinere Hoeys here, have for some time past ceased their feuds and fights, and are apparently on terms of perfectly good understanding with each other, being convinced perhaps, that it is their true interest to fraternize and remain at peace. Other secret Associations however now threaten to reenact the disgraceful Street riots that formerly disturbed the peace of the Town. The two Mahomedan rival factions have again renewed their feuds, and are now actively engaged in attacking each other on the public roads and thoroughfares, and particularly on their own burial ground in Jalan Sampah, their old battlefield. The first collision between the hostile bands took place on Friday last on the occasion of a funeral procession passing Chuliah Street, when brick bats and sticks were hurled by the contending parties at each other and had if not been for the prompt interference of the Police, the affray would have become much more serious. Since then, numerons assaults on individuals belonging to one or other of the Societies, have been committed on the public highways. The plan, introduced by Colonel Man du-ring the Chinese disturbances, of compelling some of the head men of the Cougsees to serve as special Constables and act along with the Police, is known to have operated beneficially. There is every reason to be-lieve, that the adoption of some such measure regarding these Mahomedan associations, will conduce to an equally beneficial result. Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 27 August 1863, Page 4.