A Cultural Odyssey

by Ee Lin Wan, Jun 18, 2002 | Destinations: Malaysia / Kuala Lumpur
Due to its diverse cultural make-up, there are many forms of performing arts in Malaysia. Traditional performances such as the Joget, Tarian Lilin (Candle Dance) and Dikir Barat belong to the Malays, the striking Lion Dance and Stage Opera by the Chinese while the Indians are well-known for their Bhrata Natyam Dance.

Due to its diverse cultural make-up, there are many forms of performing arts in Malaysia. Traditional performances such as the Joget, Tarian Lilin (Candle Dance) and Dikir Barat belong to the Malays, the striking Lion Dance and Stage Opera by the Chinese while the Indians are well-known for their Bhrata Natyam Dance.

Due to its diverse cultural make-up, there are many forms of performing arts in Malaysia. Traditional performances such as the Joget, Tarian Lilin (Candle Dance) and Dikir Barat belong to the Malays, the striking Lion Dance and Stage Opera by the Chinese while the Indians are well-known for their Bhrata Natyam Dance.
Wayang Kulit, which is basically a type of puppet shadow play, is performed all around the Malay archapelago. The Wayang Kulit is led by a storyteller called the Tok Dalang, while his team of assistants will move the puppets behind a screen. In Malaysia, Wayang Kulit is performed mainly in Kelantan and Terengganu.
Malay dances can be divided into four broad groups: the court dances -- performed for royalty, folk dances -- among the village people, theatrical dances and modern dances. Most Malay dances are performed by ladies, with the men playing drums or the dikir barat in the background. Dikir Barat is a modified version of chants praising Allah and Prophet Muhammad. Besides the chants, the entire performance is usually accompanied by clapping of hands alternating with strikings of gong.
Gasing, or a top, is a form of village hobby favoured by fishermen and farmers in typical Malay villages. The aim is to keep the top spinning for as long as possible. Today, gasings are still played in small villages all over Penisula Malaysia.

A story told with photos.

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