The costumes worn by Zapin Lenga dancers reflect the refinement, elegance, and

aesthetic values of the Malay community in Johor. Male dancers traditionally wear

the Baju Melayu Teluk Belanga, a classic Malay attire characterized by its round

neckline without a collar and detailed stitching known as tulang belut (eel spine

stitch). This outfit is paired with matching long pants and a kain samping (waist

cloth), often made from intricately woven fabric such as songket or tenun.

Completing the ensemble, the dancers wear a songkok (Malay cap), which is

sometimes adorned with a small brooch or dokoh. A waistband (bengkung)

fastened with a pending (decorative clasp) further enhances the appearance,

signifying both formality and cultural dignity.

Female dancers, on the other hand, don the Baju Kurung Teluk Belanga, a loose-

fitting and long traditional blouse that emphasizes modesty—a core value in Malay

culture. The top is typically made from plain or subtly patterned fabric and paired

with a sarong (wrap skirt) that is tied securely at the waist. To elevate their visual

presentation, female dancers wear a selendang (shawl), elegantly draped over the

head or shoulders. Accessories such as necklace-style dokoh, kerongsang

(decorative brooches), and traditional Malay jewelry are used to enhance the

overall grace and radiance of the performer’s appearance.

In terms of makeup, female dancers apply a light and natural look, avoiding overly

dramatic tones. The makeup is carefully balanced to accentuate facial expressions

while maintaining a sense of refinement and decorum. The goal is not to

overshadow the dance movements, but rather to complement the subtleties of the

performance and preserve the cultural value of modesty.

Overall, the choice of costume, accessories, and makeup in the Zapin Lenga

performance not only enhances the visual impact of the dance but also serves as a

powerful expression of cultural identity and traditional aesthetics. The harmony and

discipline shown through the dancers' attire mirror the respect and reverence

accorded to this cherished art form, which continues to be passed down through

generations as a proud symbol of Johor's Malay heritage.

The musical ensemble accompanying the Zapin Lenga dance is a harmonious

blend of traditional Malay and Middle Eastern instruments, reflecting the cultural  synthesis inherent in this art form. Each instrument contributes distinctively to the

rhythm, melody, and overall ambiance of the performance.

1. Gambus

Central to the ensemble, the gambus is a short-necked lute resembling the

Arabic oud. Introduced to the Malay Archipelago by Arab traders and

missionaries, it provides the melodic foundation and is often featured in

solo improvisations known as taqsim at the beginning of performances.

2. Marwas (Marawis)

These are small, double-headed hand drums played in interlocking rhythms

to produce intricate percussive patterns. The marwas is essential in

establishing the dance's tempo and is traditionally played in pairs.

3. Rebana

A frame drum similar to a tambourine, the rebana adds depth to the

rhythmic section. Its resonant tones complement the sharper sounds of the

marwas, enriching the overall percussive texture.

4. Gendang

These are barrel-shaped drums that provide dynamic rhythmic support. The

gendang's robust beats underscore the dance movements, enhancing the

performance's energy.

5. Violin

Incorporated into the ensemble through Western influence, the violin adds

melodic embellishments and harmonies, bridging traditional Malay sounds

with global musical elements.

6. Accordion

Also a Western addition, the accordion offers harmonic support and

enriches the musical texture, often used interchangeably with or alongside

the harmonium.

7. Harmonium

A free-reed keyboard instrument, the harmonium contributes sustained

chords and melodic lines, supporting both the vocal and instrumental

components of the performance.

8. Gong

A suspended, circular metal disc, the gong is used to mark transitions and

emphasize climactic moments within the performance, adding a dramatic

flair.

The integration of these instruments creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both

rhythmic and melodic, providing the essential backdrop for the Zapin Lenga dance.

The ensemble's composition reflects the historical and cultural exchanges between

the Malay world and other regions, particularly the Middle East, highlighting the

dance's role as a living testament to Malaysia's diverse heritage.

This dance is renowned for its graceful yet firm and composed bodily movements.

Although it does not require intense physical exertion, the techniques involved,

such as footwork, knee bending, and body swaying, demand consistent stamina

and control. Accordingly, the basic structure of Zapin Lenga consists of six primary

steps known as Step One, Step Two, Step Three, Step Four, Step Five, and Step

Six.

These six steps are interspersed with a transitional movement called Kopak, which

serves as a connecting phrase between each main step. The performance

concludes with a movement called Wainab, symbolizing the harmonious and

graceful closure of the dance. Each step in Zapin Lenga carries its own meaning

and symbolic value, reflecting the cultural and spiritual essence of the Malay Johor

community. The repetitive and structured movements not only enhance the

aesthetic quality of the dance but also embody discipline and unity within society.

Meanwhile, a typical Zapin Lenga performance is accompanied by traditional

songs that enrich the emotional tone and cultural depth of the presentation. Among

the most frequently performed pieces is:

a) "Naam Sidi"

This is one of the most well-known zapin songs, often featured in various

performances throughout Johor and surrounding regions. Its lyrics contain

elements of advice and moral teachings, in line with Zapin's function as a

medium for spiritual and ethical education.

Song Lyrics:

Pukullah tabuh, pukul rebana

Kalaulah jodoh, tidak ke mana

Ya naam sidi, kalaulah jodoh tak ke mana

Gununglah Benang, Gunung Selawa

Bagaikan pinang dibelah dua

Ya naam sidi, bagaikan pinang dibelah dua

Tanah yang licin, tidak berduri

Ibarat cincin lekat di jari

Ya naam sidi, ibarat cincin lekat di jari

b) “Anak Ayam”

This song is also commonly featured in zapin performances, particularly in

more relaxed and entertaining settings. Its simple and repetitive lyrics make

it suitable for audiences of all ages and for a variety of occasions. The

playful nature of the song contributes to a light-hearted atmosphere, while

still carrying subtle messages that align with the traditional values

celebrated through zapin.

Song Lyrics:

Anaklah ayam, anak ayam turun sepuluh Mati seekor, mati seekor tinggal sembilan

Mari belajar, mari belajar bersungguh-sungguh

Supaya kita, supaya kita tidak ketinggalan

Anaklah ayam, anak ayam turun sembilan

Mati seekor, mati seekor disambar helang

Kalaulah kita, kalaulah kita dah ketinggalan

Ilmu tak ada, ilmu tak ada kawan pun kurang

Anaklah ayam, anak ayam turunlah lapan

Mati seekor, mati seekor ditangkap musang

Tiada ilmu, tiada ilmu tiada kawan

Hidup merana, hidup merana ditimpa malang

Both songs play an important role in enhancing the narrative and emotional depth

of the Zapin Lenga performance, while simultaneously preserving its rich and

meaningful cultural heritage.

The adiguru (master teacher) of Zapin Lenga is Wak Sukur, also known as Haji Sukur bin Basir, who inherited the dance from Wak Rabu, or Rabu bin Haron, of Kampung Lenga Batu 28. Born in 1950 in Kampung Mencil and raised in Lenga, Wak Sukur began performing in Ghazal, Ceracap Inai, and Gambus ensembles at the age of 13 under Wak Rabu’s guidance. After Wak Rabu’s passing, Wak Sukur became the primary custodian of Zapin Lenga, continuing its tradition.