LIST OF ARTS AND CULTURE
Entire list of cultural arts includes all categories and states
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TARIAN RAMBAI
<p>Rambai Dance is a traditional dance of the Tidung ethnic community, which mostly inhabits the southeastern part of Sabah and covers the districts of Tawau, Beluran, Sandakan, and Kinabatangan. Rambai refers to the term 'tampi' or 'menampi' with nyiru, which is synonymous with the daily work of farmers, as referred to in the Tidung language, namely Intogos (working in the rice fields), Bekabun (gardening), and Tongoyon (communal work).</p><p><br></p><p>The origin of this dance is rooted in the Tidung community's communal work activities during the rice harvest season. While the community was busy harvesting rice in the rice fields, children imitated various adult movements that featured motifs of agricultural activities in the rice fields, such as pulling gunny sacks, chasing birds, pounding rice, hoeing the rice field boundary, and pulling the bird repellent rope. In general, this dance has eight basic hand steps and two basic footsteps that form a cultural expression in depicting the traditional life and uniqueness of the Tidung community's way of life.</p> ...
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SAMBAL HITAM BELIMBING BULUH
<p>Sambal Hitam Belimbing Buluh is a traditional dish originating from the east coast states of Malaysia, particularly Pahang and Terengganu. It is a unique type of sambal that uses belimbing buluh (bilimbi fruit) as its main ingredient. This sambal is well known for its sour, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice or other dishes.</p><p><br></p><p>One of the key highlights of this sambal is its ability to enhance the taste of meals with its distinctive and bold flavors. The combination of spiciness, tanginess, and natural sweetness from the belimbing buluh creates a rich and flavorful sambal that is widely loved in traditional Malay cuisine.</p><div><br></div> ...
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NASI KANDAR
<p>The British made Penang a trading hub in the 18th century. This attracted traders, including the Indian Muslim community (which gave rise to the Mamak or Indian Peranakan descendants), to migrate to Penang. The Indian Muslims were very skilled in trade. They were not only experts in culinary arts but also in textiles, retail goods, coffee shops, gold shops, and many others. They were also the ones who traded spices in the Malay Archipelago since the 15th century. This means that curry dishes were brought by the Indian Muslims, and by the 18th century, they made curry with white rice served in a basket (kandar) as a meal for laborers. The term "Nasi Kandar" comes from the practice of hawkers carrying a long wooden pole (kandar) on their shoulders. At both ends of the pole, there were containers hanging with rice and various dishes.</p><p><br></p><p>According to history, nasi kandar was originally a breakfast dish before people went to work. This was because laborers, in particular, had to perform heavy physical work. Therefore, they sought a meal to fuel them before starting their daily physical tasks. In the past, nasi kandar was a staple food for manual laborers. There is a story that states nasi kandar was a quick and easy daily meal for the workers at Weld Quay Port in Penang, which was established as the main international port in Penang. The rice used for nasi kandar typically has a distinctive aroma and was placed in a wooden container about three feet high. A mixture of curry gravy was poured over the rice, known as "banjir" gravy, which added a variety of flavors to the dish and made it very appetizing.</p><p><br></p><p>Nasi kandar is a balanced meal as it serves rice (carbohydrates), curry gravy with eggs, chicken, fish, or beef (protein), and often okra or fresh green chili (fiber). The laborers who bought nasi kandar would eat it under trees before starting work. This dish became popular in Penang and has been passed down through generations. Some vendors sold it using bicycles or three-wheeled motorcycles until local authorities provided shops for these vendors to continue their business over time.</p><p><br></p><p>Today, nasi kandar is loved by people all over Malaysia. It has also been enhanced with a variety of delicious side dishes, such as fish roe, squid eggs, hotam beef, honey chicken, onion chicken, curry liver, crispy bitter melon, fried shrimp or squid, papadom, and more. Similarly, the nasi kandar that once cost five cents is now priced at RM50 per plate!</p><div><br></div> ...
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ALAT MUZIK ENGKERURAI
<p>The Engkerurai is an iconic musical instrument in the traditional music of the Iban community. It belongs to the aerophone category, which means its sound is produced by blowing or vibrating air within its cavity. In other words, the engkerurai is a wind instrument that must be blown to produce sound. This Iban musical instrument is made from a gourd and bamboo and is typically played solo.</p><p><br></p><p>A complete engkerurai is constructed using a tangkong gourd combined with seven bamboo tubes of varying sizes and lengths. To create the engkerurai, the root of a ripe gourd is separated from the fruit, and the inner contents are removed to form a hollow cavity inside. The hollowed gourd is then carefully dried until it becomes completely dry and hard. After this, the interior of the gourd is cleaned thoroughly until it is entirely empty. Once the gourd is completely dry and hardened, a hole is made at the top to allow the base of all seven bamboo tubes to be attached and inserted into the gourd. The neck of the gourd is then cut to serve as the mouthpiece.</p><p><br></p><p>The preparation and tuning of the ruding, or reed, are crucial for shaping the sound that the engkerurai will produce. For this purpose, a tumpa made from a mixture of silver and copper is used to create the ruding. Only six of the seven bamboo ends of the engkerurai are fitted with a ruding to produce different sound notes, while the seventh bamboo serves as a support and stabilizer for the other tubes tied around it. All seven bamboo tubes are inserted together in a strong bundle into the gourd. However, the ruding must not touch the bottom base inside the gourd. The perimeter of the gourd's hole where the bamboo is inserted is coated and sealed with engkelulut, a type of natural adhesive or resin obtained from the kelulut bee's nest. This ensures that the air pressure inside the gourd, blown through the bamboo, does not leak or escape through the gaps around the hole.</p><p><br></p><p>After the crafting and assembly process is complete, the musician will blow the engkerurai to test and tune its sound. The engkerurai is generally played by the musician while sitting, blowing or inhaling air through the hole at the end of the gourd's neck to produce sound. Simultaneously, the musician's fingers touch the holes on the bamboo tubes to create the desired musical notes.</p><div><br></div> ...
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TARIAN PORTUGIS
<p>The Portuguese Dance of Melaka is a traditional art form deeply rooted in the history and cultural heritage of Melaka. It originates from the influence of the Portuguese community that came to Melaka in the 16th century and has since evolved into a part of the local culture. The Portuguese Dance of Melaka blends Portuguese and Malay elements, reflecting the unique cultural fusion in Melaka, known as the Baba Nyonya or Peranakan culture.</p><p><br></p><p>Origins of the Portuguese Dance of Melaka</p><p>This dance originates from the Kristang (Portuguese-Eurasian) community in Melaka. Following the Portuguese colonization of Melaka in 1511, the Portuguese community brought with them artistic traditions, including dance, music, and song. Over time, they assimilated with local cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, resulting in highly unique and diverse art forms, including Portuguese dances.</p><p>There are several types of dances associated with the Portuguese Dance of Melaka, including the most well-known:</p><p>Fandango Dance</p><p>The Fandango is one of the most renowned dances in Portuguese Melaka tradition. This dynamic dance involves quick footwork and is typically performed during celebrations and weddings.</p><p>Branyo Dance</p><p>The Branyo is a traditional Portuguese dance originating in Melaka. It is part of musical and dance performances at social gatherings and entertainment events. The Branyo features paired male and female dancers, performing with spirited and lively movements.</p><p>Tundo Dance</p><p>Tundo is a more ritualistic dance often performed during religious ceremonies or Christian celebrations held by the Kristang community in Melaka. It reflects the religious influence in Portuguese Melaka dance culture.</p> ...
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KERTUK ULU
<p>Kertuk Ulu is a unique form of traditional music found exclusively in the Hulu Terengganu district, specifically in Kampung Baong, Kuala Berang. Originally known as "Gendang Batak", it is believed to have been created by the renowned warrior Mat Kilau during his stay in the area. While waiting for his upland rice (padi huma) to ripen, Mat Kilau used bamboo stalks to create rhythmic sounds to scare away birds that disturbed the crops. Over time, these sounds evolved into a drumming rhythm associated with silat martial arts, which became known as Gendang Batak, as no official name existed at that time.</p><p><br></p><p>In its earliest form, the music was performed using only silat-style drum rhythms without the accompaniment of other musical instruments. However, in 2002, efforts to revive and reintroduce this musical art were spearheaded by Tuan Haji Ali bin Ismail, together with local villagers. Their efforts were supported and advised by several cultural practitioners and officers from the Terengganu branch of the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN). Recognizing that the term "Gendang Batak" was less appropriate, the name was officially changed to "Kertuk Ulu" in 2004.</p><p><br></p><p>Following this rebranding, the Kertuk Ulu ensemble began to gain greater prominence and was showcased in various locations across Terengganu under the promotion of JKKN Terengganu. To popularize the performance further and appeal to a wider audience, additional musical instruments were introduced, creating a more harmonious and dynamic sound. Moreover, the repertoire has been expanded to include popular songs, such as dikir barat melodies, to attract younger generations and adapt the performances to contemporary tastes.</p><div><br></div> ...
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BUTIR NANGKA
<p>Butir Nangka is one of the popular traditional kuih (desserts) in Malaysia, especially in the East Coast states such as Kelantan and Terengganu. It derives its name from its small, oval shape that resembles jackfruit seeds. In some sources, it is also known as "Bubur Nangka" or "Kuih Nangka."</p><p><br></p><p>This kuih is part of the Malay culinary heritage that has existed since ancient times. It is often prepared for weddings, feasts, or celebrations such as Hari Raya. Butir Nangka is believed to have originated from Malaysia's East Coast, particularly in Kelantan and Terengganu, but is now known throughout the country. This kuih is also considered a traditional dessert served at casual gatherings and is a sweet dish ideal as a dessert after a heavy meal.</p><div><br></div><div><div>Characteristics of Butir Nangka</div><div>Shape and Color</div><div>This kuih is small and oval-shaped, with a green color resembling jackfruit seeds. However, the colors of Butir Nangka have now been diversified.</div><div>Taste</div><div>Sweet and soft, with a rich coconut milk flavor. Its sweetness is balanced with a slight saltiness from the coconut milk.</div><div>Texture</div><div>Chewy and soft on the inside.</div></div><div><br></div> ...
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ADAT BARAAN/GROUP VISITATION
<p>Adat Baraan is a Javanese tradition in Johor involving group visitation, especially during Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. This communal activity often includes recitations of selawat (praises upon Prophet Muhammad) and prayers to invoke blessings for the host.</p><p>The term baraan originates from the Javanese language, meaning "to wander" or "to visit in groups." This practice is believed to have been introduced by Javanese migrants to the Malay Peninsula and has since been maintained as part of their cultural heritage.</p><div><br></div> ...
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LAKSA PENANG
<p>Laksa is a type of noodle soup that is delicious and healthy, as it is rich in protein. With just one sip, the laksa broth provides a taste of fish richness, spiciness, sourness, and sweetness, enhanced by the fragrant aroma of torch ginger and laksa leaves. The chewy and soft rice noodles complete the dish with a source of carbohydrates. This is why laksa is considered a healthy food, compared to other noodle dishes.</p><p><br></p><p>Laksa is a dish that originated from the Peranakan community. It is believed to have been brought to Malaya by traders around the 15th century, and the dish began to adapt to Malay society through the intermarriage of Chinese men and Malay women. Since then, laksa has become increasingly popular. However, when Chinese traders first introduced this dish, laksa noodles were eaten with plain broth. It was when Malay women became the wives of these traders that laksa was modified to suit local tastes.</p><p><br></p><p>The name "laksa" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "ten thousand." The term "ten thousand" refers to the variety of ingredients added to create laksa. The famous Penang Laksa, known for its diverse flavors in the broth, is served with slices of cucumber, salad leaves, eggs, lime, shrimp paste (petis), and bird's eye chili. In some areas around Penang, laksa is served with slices of pineapple and mint leaves. These ingredients make the laksa even more delicious and healthy. Due to its uniqueness and completeness, Penang Laksa is the only Malaysian dish ranked seventh in CNN's 50 Best Foods in the World, due to its well-balanced nutrients and delicious taste.</p><p><br></p><p>The basic ingredients are the same as other laksas in Malaysia. Uniquely, Penang Laksa uses noodles made from either wheat flour or rice flour. To enhance its flavor, shrimp paste or shrimp brain extract is mixed or enjoyed with the mackerel fish broth and other types of fish as additional seasonings.</p><div><br></div> ...
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TARIAN ALU-ALU
<p>The Tarian Alu Alu is typically performed by four male and six female dancers. This dance is highly captivating and unique due to the use of bamboo by the performers to execute acrobatic stunts. Generally, the dance does not follow specific choreography; instead, its movements are influenced by the daily activities of the Melanau community, including tasks and processes involved in sago production.</p><p><br></p><p>Additionally, the dance movements in Tarian Alu Alu can also be inspired by dreams, daily routines, traditional healing practices, and folk games, reflecting the cultural richness and creativity of the Melanau people.</p><div><br></div> ...
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CIRCUMCISION RITUAL OF THE ORANG ASLI - JAHUT CLAN
<p>The circumcision ritual is one of the most significant ceremonies in the lives of the Jahut indigenous community, who reside in the interior regions of Pahang, particularly in the districts of Jerantut, Temerloh, and Lipis. The Jahut are a subgroup of the Proto-Malay (Senoi-Prak) Orang Asli, inheriting rich traditions and customs filled with spiritual, social, and cultural values that are observed at various stages of life.</p><p>Etymologically, the term Jahut is derived from two words: Jah, meaning "people," and Hut, meaning "forest." Combined, the name translates to "forest people," reflecting their ancestral lifestyle, which was deeply dependent on the forest and natural resources. Their spoken language, known as the Jahut language, belongs to the Mon-Khmer language family, which is a major branch of the Austro-Asiatic language group. Over time, however, the Jahut language has absorbed a significant number of Malay words, including various local dialects such as those <span style="display: inline !important;">from Kerdau, Krau, Ketiar Krau (Terengganu), Kuala Tembeling, Pulau Guai, Ulu Ceres (Cheras), and Ulu Tembeling.</span></p><p>In earlier times, the Jahut people lived a nomadic lifestyle, moving from place to place in search of food and other natural resources. However, with the passage of time and changing circumstances, they gradually transitioned into permanent settlements and built homes to protect themselves from the elements. In Temerloh, they have established villages such as Kampung Pelong, Kampung Paya Mengkuang, Kampung Panderas, Paya Mendoi, Kampung Pasu, Kampung Pian, Kampung Paya Rekoh, Kampung Paya Mendoi, and Kampung Kuala Terboi. In Jerantut, they are primarily located in the Sungai Kiol and Kekwel (Kol) areas.</p><p>Regarding their origins, the Jahut community living in the Krau Valley today often traces their lineage back to the Minangkabau people of Pagar Ruyung. According to oral history, their ancestors fled from Pagar Ruyung following the Rawa Rebellion in 1862. They initially migrated to the Semantan River area in southern Krau Valley before moving deeper into the valley, where they continue to reside today. The migration into the forested interior was further prompted by the arrival of Malay settlers in the Kuala Krau township, which led the Jahut to seek more secluded areas along the forest fringes.</p><p>For the Jahut people, circumcision is not merely a medical procedure but carries deep meanings of maturation, transition in social status, spiritual purification, and the reinforcement of cultural identity. Although the practice has now become an important tradition, the origins of circumcision among the Jahut are rooted in a unique oral story passed down through generations.</p><p>According to the elders of Kampung Pian, the circumcision tradition began when a man from outside the community migrated to the Jahut settlement. This man was ashamed of being called Kulop (a term for an uncircumcised male in his original village) because he had not undergone circumcision. After settling in the Jahut village, he studied under the guidance of the village chief’s wife, who was referred to as Batin Perempuan (female village chief) due to her wisdom and knowledge. After several years of learning, he married the chief’s daughter, and they were later blessed with a son.</p><p>When his son reached the appropriate age, the man sought permission from his father-in-law to perform circumcision following his own cultural practices. Initially,<span style="display: inline !important;">the father-in-law was reluctant, fearing the risk of death from possible complications during the circumcision process. However, after much persuasion and explanation of the benefits, he eventually agreed to conduct the ceremony. From that event onward, circumcision became a generational practice and has since been preserved as an integral part of the Jahut community’s cultural tradition to this day.</span></p><div><span style="letter-spacing: 0.7px; display: inline !important;"><br></span></div><div><br></div><div><br></div> ...
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CUSTOMS AND CULTURE OF THE RAWA COMMUNITY IN KAMPAR, PERAK: THE BERJOJAK CUSTOM
<p>The Rawa community, also known as "Rao," is one of the most significant traditional communities in Perak, Malaysia. This community is believed to have originated in West Sumatra, Indonesia, with a history of migration to Perak that began around 1850 and continued until 1876. The migration process occurred via the Perak River in Bagan Datoh before the settlers dispersed to other areas, including those along the Kampar River. Key figures who played important roles in this migration include Pawang Ana, a renowned storyteller; Tok Tua Sakti, the founder of the Tapah settlement; and Abdul Karim bin Raja Aman Shah, the founder of the Selama settlement.</p><p>The Rawa community in Kampar is well known for its rich and unique cultural traditions, which are still practiced today. One such tradition is the Berjojak custom, a ritual designed to help infants learn to walk on the ground. The term "Berjojak" originates from the word "Berjejak," in which the Rawa dialect replaces the vowel "e" with "o," reflecting the linguistic uniqueness of this community. This tradition not only represents the cultural identity of the Rawa people but also serves as a symbol of heritage preserved by the current generation, making it a meaningful tradition within their philosophy of life and social system.</p> ...
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