TEATER TRADISONAL MENORA DI KELANTAN

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Introduction and history

Menora is a cultural heritage art originating from the Narathiwat province, Southern Thailand, and has long been a part of Kelantan culture. This art, also known as “Manora” in Thai, is a type of folk dance theatre that combines elements of ritual, dance movements, instrumental music, singing, and storytelling. Although originating from Thailand, Menora is now also performed in Kelantan and several other areas in Peninsular Malaysia, making it a unique cross-border cultural symbol.

Functions and Roles

Religious and Ritual Functions

The Menora is presented as part of the birthday celebration of a religious figure (Phra Kru Viriyasarngvorn or Phor Than Lek) at Wat Ariyakiri by the Siamese community in Kampung Aril.

It contains religious elements closely related to Buddhist teachings. It is often presented at temples as a tribute to the community's beliefs and customs.


Cultural Heritage and Conservation Functions

The Menora is preserved as a symbol of cultural values ​​and community identity, especially for the Siamese community in Kampung Aril who actively conduct Menora performances.

The Menora is considered a cultural identity that needs to be passed down to future generations to ensure the continuity of this heritage.

The role of the Kampung Aril community in maintaining and continuing this tradition allows the Menora to remain relevant as a cultural heritage.


The Function of Social Assimilation

Menora strengthens social ties and community assimilation through the support of the local community regardless of race.

The Menora performance was enthusiastically welcomed by the community in Kampung Aril, adding social value and the spirit of community assimilation.


Traditional Attire/ Accessories

Tall Crown (Kroong)::

The crown is large and tall, resembling the shape of the Thai royal crown, symbolizing the majesty and status of the character.

Usually made of metal or thick cloth decorated with precious stones and beautiful embroidery.


Decorated Sling Cloth:

Worn across the chest, decorated with gold or silver colored beads or embroidery.

Symbolizing the courage, strength, and elegance of the character presented.


Layered and Tight Clothing:

Made of thick fabric and layered to add shape and elegance.

Often brightly colored like red, yellow, and blue with intricate decorations.

Tight clothing helps to maintain the body shape of the actors, highlighting the dance moves and dramatic movements.


Cloth Sarong or Lungi:

A long sarong or lungi is worn around the waist, wrapped neatly up to the knees or below.

Decorated with traditional patterns, such as flowers and Thai motifs, to highlight cultural elements.


Bracelets, Earrings, and Other Jewelry:

Large bracelets are worn on the arms and wrists, symbolizing the status and greatness of the character.

Large earrings and additional headdresses are worn to complete the outfit, giving it a luxurious and dramatic aura.


Fake Nails (Chalung):

A long nail made of metal or other hard material, attached to the finger.

Helps highlight delicate and expressive hand gestures in performances, adding aesthetic elements to dance movements.


Mask or Thick Face Makeup:

Sometimes using masks or heavy make-up to highlight the characters' expressions and emotions.

Make-up usually involves bright colors such as white, red, and black, which distinguish human characters from gods or other mythical characters.


Additional Clothing for Specific Characters:

Gods or mythical creatures usually wear extras like wings or long tails.

Evil or antagonistic characters may be adorned with darker and harsher accessories to reflect the nature of the character.


Equipment/ Ingredients


Method / Preparation Method / Presentation Method


Figures and Achievements


Reference Source

  1. Bahan Bacaan

Baharin Ilias. (2009). Cerita-cerita Menora: Suatu Analisis. Latihan Ilmiah. Bangi. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. https://journalarticle.ukm.my/3022/1/01ADNAN_JUSOH.pdf


Ku Jok Kian. (1992). Menora: Satu Kajian Pakaian dan Perhiasan. Latihan Ilmiah. Jabatan Persuratan Melayu: Univesiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.


Lim Swee Tin & Eh Deng Eh Chik (2018). Menora: Seni Warisan Etnik Siam. Penerbit Universiti Utara Malaysia. 


Mohamed Ghouse, Nasaruddin (2000) Teater tradisional Melayu. Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Kuala Lumpur. ISBN 9836264795


Mohamad Nazri Ahmad. (2008). Menora: Satu Identiti Seni Budaya Kumpulan Kelantan. Kertas Kerja. Bangi: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Tokoh (jika ada temu bual tokoh) -

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Informant/Figure/Editor/Researcher

State JKKN Contact Information

Encik Mohd Zanidizam Md Dila

Cultural Officer

Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Kelantan
Kompleks JKKN Kelantan Lot 1993, Seksyen 49,Tanjong Chat, 15200, Kota Bharu, KELANTAN DARUL NAIM

011-31922039

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