Checkers, Draughts or Dum

Dum, as the locals call it, is a favourite board game played by many, particularly the retired. They can be easily found in the heartlands, at the void decks, under a tree, or near a kopitiam.

How did the name come about?

Dum in the heartland

Dameh was the name the Eqyptians gave to a board-game that was recovered in old tombs. Archaeologist excavated ancient ruins in Egypt found checkered gaming boards and circular pieces made out of Ivory and Jade. Such boards were also found in Iraq, long before religions came into existence.



In most non-English languages (except those that acquired the game from English speakers), draughts is called dames, damas. It is known in Great Britain as Checkers or Draughts.
The malays learned the game from the British but use the name Dama, as the indians called it. Evolving through the years, Dum is today commonly known as such.

Dum in the heartland