Keumalahayati, or Malahayati (16th century), was an admiral in the navy of the Aceh Sultanate, which ruled the area of modern Aceh Province, Sumatra, Indonesia. She was the first woman admiral in the modern world.

    Malahayati's reputation as the guardian of the Aceh Kingdom led England to choose a peaceful, diplomatic method by which to enter the Malacca Strait. A letter from Queen Elizabeth I was brought by James Lancaster to the Sultan, and it was Malahayati who led the negotiation with Lancaster. The agreement opened the English route to Java, and they were soon afterward able to build merchant offices in Banten. Elizabeth I rewarded Lancaster with a knighthood for his successful diplomacy in Aceh and Banten.

    Malahayati was killed in combat while attacking the Portuguese fleet at Teluk Krueng Raya. She was buried at lereng Bukit Kota Dalam, a small fishing village 34km from Banda Aceh.

    Today, Malahayati has become the namesake for naval ships, universities, hospitals, and roads in several Sumatran cities.

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