Many Muslims work as domestic servants and as fishermen - a valuable contribution to the fishing industry at the Cape. During the nineteenth century the Malays played an important part of life at the Cape as carpenters, cabinet - makers, masons, gardeners, tailors, shoemakers and coachmen. Malays brought with them not only the spices of the East, but also wonderful fabrics and oriental designers. East Indian Settlements, during the days of Dutch colonisation, were the source of prized slaves. Many women were of royal blood, being daughters of Rajahs who were exiled here.
Entertainment plays an important role in every community.
There were various kinds of entertainment that the Malays contributed. Every New Years' Eve the Cape Malay Choir Board would hold a parade for the people in their area. The compete in annual competitions. The Coon Carnival is a famous New Year Malay tourist attraction. The Cassida band is a type of music played by the Malays.