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TARIAN ZAPIN TANJUNG LABOH
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Introduction and history
Zapin Tanjung Labuh originates from Kampung Tanjung Labuh in Batu Pahat, Johor. This dance is uniquely characterised by its exclusive performance by female dancers, showcasing refined and graceful footwork, particularly the delicate langkah gantung (suspended steps).
Named after its place of origin, the dance was passed down through the family of Salmah binti Ahmad, also known as Mak Salmah. It was initially introduced by Mahmud bin Muhaban (Cikgu Mahmud Awang) and later inherited by Abdul Aziz bin Boon. Mak Salmah, upon mastering the dance, further developed and popularised it within her family. Zapin Tanjung Labuh gained public recognition after its participation in the Johor State Zapin Competition in the late 1990s.
In its early days, Zapin Tanjung Labuh was performed informally by villagers, often in pairs or groups of four, without fixed choreography. It was commonly featured at weddings and family celebrations. Mak Salmah’s adaptation of making it an exclusively female dance highlighted the elegance of women in its presentation.
Zapin Tanjung Labuh serves as a symbol of Kampung Tanjung Labuh’s cultural heritage. It plays an essential role in fostering social relationships and ensuring the continuity of traditions across generations. This dance is often performed at weddings, communal gatherings, and community events.
The dancers wear Baju Kurung Johor paired with kain dagang luar. This attire represents the modesty and elegance of Malay women, aligning with the refined and disciplined movements of the dance.
Musical Accompaniment: Gambus (lute), marwas (small drum), rebana (frame drum), and violin.
Costume: Baju Kurung Johor and kain dagang.
Zapin Tanjung Labuh features four main choreographic motifs:
Langkah Satu: Basic movement stepping forward with the second step slightly suspended (gantung).
Langkah Dua: A development of the basic step, featuring crossed or aborted steps (tak jadi).
Langkah Tiga: A variation of the second step.
Langkah Empat: The final step, involving the right foot moving backward and the left foot suspended.
The uniqueness of this dance lies in the hand movements, which remain at waist level, contrasting with Zapin Kores, where hands swing up to shoulder height. The graceful and disciplined choreography accentuates femininity and meticulousness.
Mak Salmah (Salmah binti Ahmad) is the key figure in preserving the Zapin Tanjung Labuh tradition. Her efforts in adapting the dance for female performers and refining its aesthetic elements have ensured its survival as a cultural heritage of Kampung Tanjung Labuh.
Reference Source
Bahan Bacaan
Mustaffa, N., & Idris, M. Z. (2017). Accessing Accuracy of Structural Performance on Basic Steps in Recording Malay Zapin Dance Movement Using Motion Capture Accessing Accuracy of Structural Performance on Basic Steps in Recording Malay Zapin Dance Movement Using Motion Capture. Journal of Applied Environmental and Biological Sciences, 8, 165-73.
Nor, M. A. M. (2020). Eclecticism and syncretic traditions: the making of Malay folk dance. In Sharing Identities (pp. 37-55). Routledge India.
Bari, M. H. A., bin Samsuddin, M. E., & Kahn, S. M. (2021). PELESTARIAN DAN PEMARTABATAN ZAPIN JOHOR SEBAGAI WARISAN TERBILANG. JURNAL MELAYU SEDUNIA, 4(1), 75-113.
Tokoh: Salmah binti Ahmad (Mak Salmah) (Temubual)
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Puan Nor Hafizah Hassan
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Johor
Aras 6 Kiri, Wisma PERKESO
No 26, Jalan Susur 5
Off Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Larkin
80200 Johor Bahru
JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM
07-224 8270 / 223 1249
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