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Introduction and history

The Kukur Dance, or Tempurung Dance, is a unique traditional art form from the state of Kedah, named after its main musical instrument, the coconut shell. This dance is believed to have originated as a form of folk entertainment among farmers and fishermen, where the use of coconut shells symbolizes the abundance of natural resources in Kedah. It is typically performed in a relaxed setting, such as at feasts or harvest festivals, accompanied by traditional music and lively folk songs. The movements in this dance are dynamic, mimicking daily activities like harvesting rice or fishing, and thus narrating the daily lives of the community. The history of the Tempurung Dance reflects the ingenuity of the Malay community in Kedah, who combined the functionality of everyday tools with artistic expression.


Functions and Roles

The Kukur Dance, also known as the Tempurung Dance, is a folk dance originating from Kedah. Its name derives from its primary instrument, the coconut shell, which is used to produce unique sounds during the performance. The primary function of the Kukur Dance is to provide entertainment for rural communities, especially during the harvest season or after communal activities (gotong-royong). Additionally, this dance serves as a medium for fostering unity, as it is often performed at community events to strengthen social bonds. The simple yet captivating rhythm and movements make the Kukur Dance accessible and enjoyable for people from all walks of life.


Traditional Attire/ Accessories

The dancers typically wear baju kurung or baju Kedah adorned with floral patterns, symbolizing the community's close connection with nature. Bright-colored samping or sarong fabrics are often paired with these outfits, creating a striking contrast in the performance.


Accessories in the Kukur Dance include coconut shells, which serve as both sound-producing instruments and the main prop. These shells are often decorated with paint or simple carvings to enhance their visual appeal. Additionally, dancers wear traditional ornaments such as pending (belt buckles), bracelets, and brooches (kerongsang), further enriching their appearance.


Equipment/ Ingredients

The Kukur Dance, or Tempurung Dance, is a unique traditional dance in Kedah that incorporates musical instruments and everyday tools as elements of the performance. In this dance, coconut shells serve as the primary instrument, used not only as percussion tools but also as props for the dance movements. The shells are struck together or against the floor in rhythmic patterns to produce sounds that complement the dance, showcasing the creativity of traditional communities in utilizing natural materials in their performing arts.


Dancers usually use a pair of coconut shells, which are struck together or tapped on the floor to follow dynamic rhythmic patterns. In addition to coconut shells, traditional musical instruments such as drums (gendang), flutes (serunai), and gongs are also used to accompany the Kukur Dance. The gendang provides the main rhythm, while the serunai plays melodies that enhance the atmosphere of the performance. This combination of instruments creates a lively and energetic ambiance, matching the lively and interactive movements of the dancers.


Method / Preparation Method / Presentation Method

The Kukur Tempurung Dance is a folk dance inspired by the daily lives of rural communities. Its movements are largely drawn from the traditional activity of grating coconuts (mengukur kelapa) and are further refined with the rhythmic sounds of grating tools and coconut shells.


This dance is performed in pairs, showcasing playful teasing between male and female dancers (uda and dara). The movements, accompanied by the sound of coconut shells being struck, produce a unique rhythm, adding an engaging audio-visual dimension to the performance. This playful and interactive style makes the Kukur Dance both entertaining and a meaningful representation of community life.


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State JKKN Contact Information

Encik Mohammad Salleh bin Mahmud

Cultural Officer

Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Kedah
Kompleks JKKN Kedah Lot PTD 400, Pumpong 05250 Alor Setar KEDAH DARUL AMAN

011-10899646

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