ADAT TEBUS PELAMIN

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Introduction and history

Adat Tebus Pelamin, colloquially referred to as "duit tol" (toll money) among the Malay community in Johor, is a long-standing wedding tradition. This custom involves a symbolic act of preventing the groom from ascending the bridal dais (pelamin) until he pays a designated amount of "toll money" to the bride's family.

Historically, this tradition has been seen as a playful and meaningful way to enhance the celebratory atmosphere while symbolising the groom's effort and determination in marrying his bride. The amount of toll money, often starting from as little as RM0.50 to RM1.00 per toll, is agreed upon by both families. In some cases, a higher amount may be offered as a gesture of respect or humour.

Adat Tebus Pelamin remains an integral aspect of Malay wedding culture in Johor, reflecting communal values of togetherness and cheerfulness.


Functions and Roles

Adat Tebus Pelamin serves both as entertainment and a symbolic representation of the groom's perseverance in reaching his bride. It involves lighthearted interactions and negotiations between the groom, his best man (pengapit), and representatives of the bride's side.

This tradition strengthens familial and communal bonds, turning the wedding into more than just the union of two individuals. It becomes a shared celebration of two families and their extended communities.


Traditional Attire/ Accessories

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Equipment/ Ingredients

Equipment:

Fan: Used by the Mak Andam (bridal makeup artist) to cover the bride's face during the "tol buka kipas" (fan toll) phase.

Bridal Dais Chair: Seats for the bride and groom after the toll payment process is complete.

Money Tray: A small tray or container for collecting the toll money from the groom.

Table for Offerings: A table for placing additional symbolic items or gifts during negotiations.

Materials:

Toll Money: Small denominations of cash, typically RM0.50 to RM1.00 per toll, though higher amounts may be used for added humour or respect.

Bridal Dais Decorations: Flowers, fabric, and other embellishments that enhance the aesthetic of the dais.

Poetry or Banter Scripts: While not physical items, pantuns (traditional Malay poetry) or witty exchanges are a key part of the toll negotiation process.


Method / Preparation Method / Presentation Method

The Adat Tebus Pelamin ritual unfolds in three main stages:

1. Toll to Enter the Courtyard (Tol Tebus Laman):

The first "toll" is collected at the entrance to the bride's home, often guarded by children, youths, or elders from the community.

The groom must pay the toll before being allowed into the bride's house compound.

2. Toll to Ascend the Pelamin (Tol Tebus Pintu/Naik Pelamin):

The second toll is paid at the doorway or before the groom approaches the bridal dais.

This phase is often supervised by the bride's friends, relatives, or bridesmaids, who engage the groom in playful negotiations.

3. Toll for the Fan (Tol Mak Andam/Buka Kipas):

The final toll involves the Mak Andam covering the bride's face with a fan.

The groom must pay to have the fan removed and sit beside his bride.

Role of the Best Man (Pengapit):

The groom's best man plays a crucial role in this tradition, acting as the negotiator and mediator. His tasks include responding with pantuns, managing interactions, and ensuring the groom remains cheerful and composed.


Figures and Achievements

There are no specific individuals associated with the origin of Adat Tebus Pelamin. However, the Johor Malay community has preserved and adapted this tradition into modern wedding ceremonies.

Adat Tebus Pelamin is frequently featured in media and academic cultural studies, highlighting the community's dedication to preserving this distinctive aspect of Johor's wedding customs.


Reference Source

Bahan Bacaan

Khamis, H. J. (1997). Adat Lama Perkahwinan Orang Melayu Muar/Khamis Haji Juned. Malaya in History/Malaysia in History Dan Malaysia Dari Segi Sejarah, (25), 65-89.

Nordin, A. F. B. (2020). Adat Tebus Pelamin Dalam Majlis Perkahwinan Asyarakat Melayu Johor Dari Perspektif Islam”, (Disertasi Sarjana), Universiti Malaya.

Azharul, N. (2023, Julai 13). Adat tebus pelamin: Hendak kahwin pun kena bayar tol!. Akses Malaysia. Dicapai pada 21 Disember 2024, daripada https://www.aksesmalaysia.my/adat-tebus-pelamin-hendak-kahwin-pun-kena-bayar-tol/

Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara. (t.t.). Adat bayar tol perkahwinan. Dicapai pada 21 Disember 2024, daripada https://pemetaanbudaya.jkkn.gov.my/senibudaya/detail/698/pengenalan


Location

Informant/Figure/Editor/Researcher
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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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