LIST OF ARTS AND CULTURE
Entire list of cultural arts includes all categories and states
Search Filters : 453
MEE WANTAN
<p>Wantan noodles, also known as wantan mee, is a type of noodle dish that is based on Chinese tradition and originates from southern China, especially the Cantonese region. The history of mee wantan in Malaysia begins with the mass migration of the Chinese community, especially from the Cantonese and Hakka people, who came to Malaya in the 19th century during the British occupation. These immigrants worked as tin miners and traders, while bringing with them their culture, customs, and traditional cuisine, including wantan noodles.</p><p><br></p><p>Mee wantan became popular in Malaysia because it suits the local palate who love noodle dishes. Traditional wantan noodles use delicate egg noodles served with light soup or thick soy sauce, and accompanied by dumplings (wantan) filled with meat or shrimp. Along with the changing times and the development of tastes in Malaysia, this dish has experienced several adaptations, especially among the Muslim community. Halal versions that use chicken or seafood are now increasingly popular, especially in Muslim Chinese restaurants. Currently, mee wantan has become one of the favorite dishes of various races in Malaysia and can be found in various restaurants, stalls, and kopitiams throughout the country.</p><div><br></div> ...
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TARIAN INANG GHENEK
<p>The Inang Ghenek dance evolved from the Mak Inang Kesot dance, performed by crouching (ghenek) until both thighs nearly touch the floor. Inang Ghenek incorporates influences from Arab and Indian cultures, brought through trade connections between South Asia and Southeast Asia. Initially, this dance was predominantly a solo performance; however, over time, it evolved into a group dance performed by women.</p><div><br></div> ...
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KARI DEBAL
<p>Kari Debal is a traditional dish famous in the ethnic Portuguese cuisine of Malaysia, particularly among the Christian Portuguese community in Melaka, known as the Kristang people. This dish exemplifies the influence of Portuguese culture blended with local elements from Malay and Indian cuisine.</p><p><br></p><p>Kari Debal originates from Portuguese cuisine, brought to Melaka by Portuguese traders in the 16th century. Among the Kristang community, descendants of the Portuguese residing in Melaka, this dish has become a part of their cultural heritage.</p><p><br></p><p>Debal, meaning "bull" or "meat," refers to the beef used in this curry, but it can also be made with chicken or lamb. Kari Debal is often associated with ceremonies or celebrations, particularly Christmas, but it is also available at eateries or restaurants that serve Kristang cuisine.</p><p><br></p><p>Known for its spicy and richly spiced flavor, Kari Debal features aromatic spices that make it highly flavorful and fragrant. It is typically served with white rice or bread, such as Portuguese bread (pao) or pancakes, to savor its thick, rich curry sauce.</p><p><br></p><p>Uniqueness of Kari Debal</p><p>Portuguese Influence: Kari Debal is a culinary fusion of Portuguese cooking with Malaysian local ingredients and spices, particularly Malay and Indian.</p><p>Rich Flavor: The combination of abundant spices and coconut milk gives this curry a deep, complex flavor. It is not only spicy but also rich in savory notes with a slight tanginess from asam keping (tamarind slices).</p><p>Festive Dish: Kari Debal is often prepared during Christmas celebrations and family gatherings in the Kristang community, making it closely tied to family traditions and cultural heritage.</p><div><br></div> ...
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NAZAM
<p>Nazam is a Malay poetry adapted from Arabic verse composition. It emerged in Malaya around the 12th century as Islam began to reach the shores of the Malay Peninsula (Abdul Latif, 2013). By the 15th century it was introduced in Malacca and by the 20th century, broadly won the hearts of her locals. </p><p><br></p><p>Nazam is an Arabic word carries the notion of ‘poetic composition’. According to At-tullab Arabic-Malay Dictionary (1994), nazam means ‘to plan, compose, organize and arrange’. Thus it can be said that nazam means poetry and bernazam carries the meaning of singing. </p><p><br></p><p>Nazam songs are divided into two versions, the Serkam and Tanjung. The songs were beginning to be sung in Terengganu, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan. The nazam performed in Malacca is called Nazam Asli which is based on Islamic teachings. While another, the Creative Nazam, is concerning current events or stories, sung with a drumming background, which is importantly not prohibited by Islamic teachings or Malay culture (Abdul Latif, 2013). Lastly, nazam is performed by men and women.</p><p><br></p><p>The Lyirik of Nazam</p><p><br></p><p>Pillars of Islam Nazam<span style="white-space:pre"> </span></p><p>Allah Allah Azzawajal our Lord </p><p>We ask for forgiveness of our sins </p><p>Protect our journey </p><p>I surrender to You, Ya Allah</p><p><br></p><p>Islam’s core is the five pillars</p><p>The shahada is the first core of faith </p><p>The second, prayer is the pillar of religion </p><p>The third, fasting in the main month of Ramadan (Repeat) </p><p><br></p><p>The fourth, extending the zakat when it’s due</p><p>Thus one should not be neglecting </p><p><br></p><p>The fifth, performing the hajj at the House of God</p><p>If one is able, it is obligatory.</p><div><br></div> ...
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TARIAN MONGIGOL SUMUNDAI
<p>The Mongigol Sumundai dance is a traditional dance rich in cultural elements and symbolism for the Rungus ethnic community who mostly live in the northern region of Sabah, especially in the Kudat district and the small Matunggong district. The Mongigol dance is a specific dance move for male dancers, while the Sumundai dance is specifically danced by female dancers. However, these two dances are performed simultaneously, where a male dancer will lead the dance and be followed by four or more female dancers. In general, this dance can be categorized as an imitation dance because it imitates the movement of objects that are closely related to the life of the Rungus ethnic community in the past (Pangayan, 2020). Nowadays, the Mongigol Sumundai dance is often performed in various festive events, especially during the Kaamatan Festival, the Magahau Festival or ritual ceremonies as a sign of gratitude for agricultural produce.</p> ...
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MASAKAN TRADISIONAL ‘AMBUYAT’
<p>Ambuyat is a traditional food, a favourite of the Bruneians and Bisayas. This special dish is enjoyed by many and has been passed down for generations by the Kadazandusun, Murut, Bajau and Dusun Tatana in Sabah. </p><p><br></p><p>Starchy food, transparent and sticky glue-like texture, it is made from sago flour, which is processed from sago palm wood, the ampulung. </p><p><br></p><p>In the old days, ambuyat was eaten daily, and always served at weddings, festivals and other celebrations. </p><div><br></div> ...
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LAGU BERPUKONG (MENIDURKAN BAYI)
<p>Berpukong or Berpokong, is a traditional Malay Banjar custom used to lull babies to sleep. This practice is deeply rooted in cultural and religious values. During Berpukong, the baby is placed in a seated position and securely wrapped in cloth up to the neck while both legs are allowed to dangle freely outside the cradle. As the cradle is gently swung, mothers sing the Lagu Berpukong in the Banjar dialect, interspersing the melody with recitations of blessings (Selawat) upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).</p><p><br></p><p>The Lagu Berpukong is a form of oral tradition passed down through generations of the Malay Banjar community. This song is not written in text but preserved through oral transmission, making it a vital element of cultural heritage. Its lyrics reflect the past's lifestyle and serve as a medium to convey praises, aspirations, and prayers. Through this tradition, mothers pray for their children to grow into devout individuals, dutiful to their parents, and beneficial to their community and nation.</p><div><br></div> ...
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MASAKAN TRADISIONAL PULUT KUKUS IKAN MASIN
<p>Pulut Kukus Ikan Masin, or glutinous rice with fried salted fish, is a popular delicacy in Perlis and in the Northern states of Semenanjung Malaysia. It is a common breakfast dish for those in Perlis. This dish is made of steamed glutinous rice and fried salted fish. Usually the salted fish are ikan gelama and ikan tamban. Pulut kukus becomes more appetizing when paired with fresh grated coconut, which the locals call nyok (in their dialects).</p> ...
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ADAT RESAM DAN BUDAYA KAUM KADAZANDUSUN SUKU DUSUN KIMARAGANG: ADAT PERKAHWINAN
<p>The Dusun Kimaragang is one of the largest tribes within the Kadazan Dusun community, residing in the northern part of Sabah, Malaysia. This community predominantly lives in the Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Paitan, and Sandakan. The Dusun Kimaragang are renowned for their strong agrarian culture, particularly in rice cultivation, which forms the foundation of their economic and social life. In addition to their agricultural prowess, their customs and cultural practices are deeply rooted and reflect the philosophy of communal living. One of the cultural traditions they continue to uphold today is the traditional marriage custom, which follows the processes and structures inherited from their ancestors.</p> ...
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TARIAN MAGUNATIP
<p>Magunatip is a traditional dance inherited from the Murut ethnic group, one of the most important indigenous communities living in the interior of Sabah, covering the Tenom, Keningau, Pensiangan and several other districts. The name Mangunatip comes from the word ‘Atip’, which means ‘Jepit,’ which refers to the act of pinching the two surfaces of the bamboo stick, which is used as the main instrument in this dance. The bamboo stick produces rhythmic sounds and choreographic elements, which ensure that the dancers have the skills and agility to play their feet between the pinched bamboo sticks and avoid being hit by the ‘Atipan’.</p><p><br></p><p>Typically, the Magunatip dance is performed by male and female dancers in a rhythmic rhythm, where the male will lead with the ‘Mahihialang’ dance, followed by the female dancers with the ‘Anggalang’ dance rhythm. It begins with the accompaniment of the musical instruments ‘Sansaring’, which is a small gong and ‘Jarang’, which is a drum, followed by the harmony of sounds from the tapping between two bamboos. The integration of the musical ensemble and movement patterns in this dance not only reflects the physical intelligence of the dancers or the dynamics of the performance but also has deep symbolism that links the dance elements with the cultural values and identity of the Murut ethnic community.</p> ...
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ZAPIN LENGA DANCE
<p>Zapin is one of the traditional Malay dance forms with a long and rich history,</p><p>influenced by Arab and Islamic culture introduced by Middle Eastern traders and</p><p>missionaries approximately 500 years ago. In Johor, zapin has evolved into a</p><p>distinct cultural identity, shaped by local adaptations and passed down through</p><p>generations. More than just a form of entertainment, zapin has traditionally served</p><p>as a medium for spiritual education, moral instruction, and community bonding</p><p>within Malay society.</p><p>Among the various styles of zapin in Johor, Zapin Lenga stands out as one of the</p><p>oldest and most significant. Originating from Kampung Lenga, Batu 28, Muar,</p><p>Johor, Zapin Lenga holds a vital place in the cultural heritage of the state. It is</p><p>recognized as one of the 20 documented types of traditional zapin found across</p><p>Johor and is often regarded as the prototypical style that laid the foundation for</p><p>what is now known as Zapin Melayu Johor.</p><p>Historically, the dance was founded by the late Rabu bin Harom, also known as</p><p>Wak Rabu, a respected traditional artist from Muar. His legacy was passed down to</p><p>Haji Sukur bin Basir, and is currently being preserved and promoted by Majid bin</p><p>Rawino, a local cultural practitioner. Initially, Zapin Lenga was performed</p><p>exclusively by male dancers during social and religious occasions such as</p><p>weddings, communal feasts, Quran recitation completion ceremonies (Khatam Al-</p><p>Quran), and baby hair-cutting rituals (Cukur Jambul). However, over time, and in</p><p>response to societal changes, female dancers have also begun dancing,</p><p>highlighting their graceful and refined movements that are often described as more</p><p>expressive when performed by women.</p><p>Aesthetically, Zapin Lenga emphasizes virtuous values rooted in Malay customs</p><p>and etiquette. Its choreographed movements symbolize decorum, modesty, and</p><p>cultural harmony. Despite the pressures of modernization and shifting lifestyle</p><p>patterns, efforts in conservation and cultural transmission have allowed Zapin</p><p>Lenga to continue thriving as a living heritage. It remains relevant to younger</p><p>generations and is regularly showcased in arts programs, cultural education, and</p><p>heritage festivals at both the state and national levels.</p> ...
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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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