Late 19th century; earliest use found in Frank Swettenham (1850–1946), colonial administrator. From Malay menteri official, senior civil servant, functionary from Sanskrit mantrī.
Definition of Mentri in US English:
Mentri
noun
In Malaysia and Indonesia: a minister of state.
Origin
Late 19th century; earliest use found in Frank Swettenham (1850–1946), colonial administrator. From Malay menteri official, senior civil servant, functionary from Sanskrit mantrī.