ABOUT MALAYSIA
INTRODUCTION
To know
Malaysia is to love Malaysia. A bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and
religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live
together in peace and harmony.
Multiculturalism
has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia
home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love
celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm
and friendly.
Geographically,
Malaysia is as diverse as its culture.Malaysia is divided into 13 states and 3
Federal Territories, separated by the South China Sea with 11 states and 2
federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) in Peninsular Malaysia and two
states and 1 federal territory (Labuan) in East Malaysia.
One of
Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look
down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several
metres away from ancient reefs.Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that
roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.
For the
perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the
time is now, the place is Malaysia.
* Further
information on the country can also be obtained from the Malaysian government's
official portal, www.malaysia.gov.my.
Country
The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.
The
Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of
Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
Geographic Location
Situated
between 2º and 7º to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is
separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part
of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore.
Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders
with Brunei.
Area
329,758
square km
Population
28.3
million
Capital City
Kuala
Lumpur
People
Malays
comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and
other races make up the rest of the country's population.
Language
(Bahasa
Melayu)Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The
ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.
Religion
Islam
is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely
practised.
Government
Malaysia
follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentary.
The head of the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position
which is changed every five years among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government
is the Prime Minister.
Weather
The
country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures are from 21ºC
(70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures
between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to
2,500mm.
Main Holidays
New
Year*, Hari Raya Aidiladha*, Federal Territory Day **, Chinese New Year *, Awal
Muharam*, Maulidur Rasul*, Labour Day*, Wesak*, King's Birthday*, National Day*
Deepavali# Hari Raya Aidilfitri* Christmas*
Note:
(*) - National Holidays (**) - Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur & Labuan only (#) -
except Labuan & Sarawak
Economic
Profile
Manufacturing
constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and
primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are
major contributors to the economy.
Distance
to Malaysia
London, United Kingdom to Kuala Lumpur : 6,557 miles (10,552 km)
Paris, France to Kuala Lumpur 6,483 miles (10,432 km)
Rome, Italy to Kuala Lumpur : 6,038 miles (9,716 km)
Stockholm, Sweden to Kuala Lumpur : 5,812 miles (9,353 km)
Berlin, Germany to Kuala Lumpur : 5,979 miles (9,622 km)
Madrid, Spain to Kuala Lumpur : 6,885 miles (11,079 km)
New York, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 9,400 miles (15,126 km)
Los Angeles, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 8,790 miles (14,144 km)
Vancouver, Canada to Kuala Lumpur : 7,944 miles (12,783 km)
Currency
The monetary unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia and is
written as RM. The exchange rate is valued at USD1 = RM3.15. Foreign currencies
can be exchanged at banks and money changers.
Banking Hours
Most states: Monday- Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Saturday &
Sunday: Closed (Some banks and its branches are opened Saturdays). Kelantan
& Terengganu: Sunday - Wednesday :9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Thursday :9.30 am to
4.00 pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public holiday: Closed
Post Office
Opening hours from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily, except for the first
Saturdays of the month, Sundays, and public holidays when it is closed. In
Kelantan and Terengganu the post office operates at the same time, but is
closed on Fridays and public holidays.
Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S Standard
Time.
Electricity
Voltage is 220 - 240 Volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-
pin square plugs and socket.
Measurement and Weight
Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and
measurement.
Telephone
Local calls can be made from public phones using shillings or
prepaid cards. International calls can also be made using card phones or at any
Telekom office.
Accommodation
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates.
International standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels are just
some of the types of accommodation available.
CULTURE
& HERITAGE
People
Having had an interesting past and being a part of the
international spice route many hundreds of years ago, Malaysia has turned into
a mosaic of cultures. Everything from its people to its architecture reflect a
colourful heritage and an amalgamated culture. To understand Malaysian culture,
you must first get to know its people.
DISCOVER A
LAND OF INTRIGUING DIVERSITY
Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups have lived
together in Malaysia for generations. All these cultures have influenced each
other, creating a truly Malaysian culture.
The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.
MALAY
Today, the Malays, Malaysia's largest ethnic group, make up more than 50% of the population. In Malaysia, the term Malay refers to a person who practices Islam and Malay traditions, speaks the Malay language and whose ancestors are Malays. Their conversion to Islam from Hinduism and Theravada Buddhism began in the 1400s, largely influenced by the decision of the royal court of Melaka. The Malays are known for their gentle mannerisms and rich arts heritage.
CHINESE
The second largest ethnic group, the
Malaysian Chinese form about 25% of the population. Mostly descendants of
Chinese immigrants during the 19th century, the Chinese are known for their
diligence and keen business sense. The three sub-groups who speak a different
dialect of the Chinese language are the Hokkien who live predominantly on the
northern island of Penang; the Cantonese who live predominantly in the capital
city Kuala Lumpur; and the Mandarin-speaking group who live predominantly in
the southern state of Johor.
INDIAN
The smallest
of three main ethnic groups, the Malaysian Indians form about 10% of the
population. Most are descendants of Tamil-speaking South Indian immigrants who
came to the country during the British colonial rule. Lured by the prospect of
breaking out of the Indian caste system, they came to Malaysia to build a
better life. Predominantly Hindus, they brought with them their colourful culture
such as ornate temples, spicy cuisine and exquisite sarees. INDIGENOUS ETHNIC GROUPS
Orang Asli
Orang Asli
is a general term used for any indigenous groups that are found in Peninsular
Malaysia. They are divided into three main tribal groups: Negrito, Senoi and
Proto-Malay. The Negrito usually live in the north, the Senoi in the middle and
the Proto-Malay in the south. Each group or sub-group has its own language and
culture. Some are fishermen, some farmers and some are semi-nomadic.
SARAWAK
Collectively
known as the Dayaks, the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu are the major ethnic
groups in the state of Sarawak. Dayak, which means upstream or inland, is used
as a blanket term by the Islamic coastal population for over 200 tribal groups.
Typically, they live in longhouses, traditional community homes that can house
20 to 100 families.
Iban
The largest
of Sarawak's ethnic groups, the Ibans form 30% of the state's population.
Sometimes erroneously referred to as the Sea Dayaks because of their skill with
boats, they are actually an upriver tribe from the heart of Kalimantan. In the
past, they were a fearsome warrior race renowned for headhunting and piracy.
Traditionally, they worship a triumvirate of gods under the authority of
Singalang Burung, the bird-god of war. Although now mostly Christians, many
traditional customs are still practised.
Bidayuh
Peace-loving
and easy-going, the gentle Bidayuh of Sarawak are famous for their hospitality
and tuak or rice wine. Making their homes in Sarawak's mountainous regions,
they are mostly farmers and hunters. In their past headhunting days, their
prized skulls were stored in a 'baruk' a roundhouse that rises about 1.5 metres
above the ground. Originally animists, now most of them have converted to
Christianity.
Orang Ulu
Also known
as upriver tribes of Sarawak. Forming roughly 5.5% of Sarawak's population, there
are over 100,000 different Orang Ulu tribes. Arguably Borneo's most artistic
people, their large longhouses are ornately decorated with murals and superb
woodcarvings; their utensils are embellished with intricate beadwork; and
aristocratic ladies cover their bodies with finely detailed tattoos. SABAH
Kadazan Dusun
Bajau
The second
largest ethnic group in Sabah, the Bajaus make up about 15% of the state's
population. Historically a nomadic sea-faring people that worshipped the Omboh
Dilaut or God of the Sea, they are sometimes referred to as the Sea Gypsies.
Those who chose to leave their sea-faring ways became farmers and
cattle-breeders. These land Bajaus are nicknamed 'Cowboys of the East' in
tribute to their impressive equestrian skills, which are publicly displayed in
the annual Tamu Besar festival at Kota Belud.
Murut
The third
largest ethnic group in Sabah the Muruts make up about 3% of the state's
population. Traditionally inhabiting the northern inland regions of Borneo,
they were the last of Sabah's ethnic groups to renounce headhunting. Now, they
are mostly shifting cultivators of hill paddy and tapioca, supplementing their
diet with blowpipe hunting and fishing. Like most indigenous tribes in Sabah,
their traditional clothing is decorated with distinctive beadwork.
Architecture
AN AMAZING
ARCHITECTURAL AMALGAM
A
fascinating fusion of tradition and modernity, Malaysia's architecture today is
a reflection of Asia's many styles, cultures and religions. These influences
include Hindu-Indian, Arab-Muslim, Chinese and European. Portuguese, Dutch and
British colonization have also influenced local architecture. Now, the country
embraces an independent modern Malaysian vision whilst staying true to its rich
culture and heritage.
TRADITIONAL
ARCHITECTURE
Traditional
Malay architecture employs sophisticated architectural processes ideally suited
to tropical conditions such as structures built on stilts, which allow
cross-ventilating breeze beneath the dwelling to cool the house whilst
mitigating the effects of the occasional flood. High-pitched roofs and large
windows not only allow cross-ventilation but are also carved with intricate
organic designs.
Malay
Traditional
houses in Negeri Sembilan were built of hardwood and entirely free of nails.
They are built using beams, which are held together by wedges. A beautiful
example of this type of architecture can be seen in the Old Palace of Seri
Menanti in Negeri Sembilan, which was built around 1905.
Another truly magnificent example of Malay
architectural creativity is the Istana Kenangan in the royal town of Kuala
Kangsar. Built in 1926, it is the only Malay palace made of bamboo walls.
Today, many
Malay or Islamic buildings incorporate Moorish design elements as can be seen
in the Islamic Arts Museum and a number of buildings in Putrajaya - the new
administrative capital, and many mosques throughout the country.
Chinese
In Malaysia, Chinese architecture is of two broad types: traditional and Baba-Nyonya. Examples of traditional architecture include Chinese temples found throughout the country such as the Cheng Hoon Teng that dates back to 1646.
Chinese
In Malaysia, Chinese architecture is of two broad types: traditional and Baba-Nyonya. Examples of traditional architecture include Chinese temples found throughout the country such as the Cheng Hoon Teng that dates back to 1646.
Many old houses especially those in Melaka and
Penang are of Baba-Nyonya heritage, built with indoor courtyards and beautiful,
colourful tiles.
A rare
architectural combination of Chinese and Western elements is displayed by
Melaka's Terengkera mosque. Its pagoda-like appearance is a fine example of
Chinese-influenced roof form, combined with Western detailing in its
balustrades and railings.
Indian
With most of
Malaysian Hindus originally from Southern India, local Hindu temples exhibit
the colourful architecture of that region.
Built in the
late nineteenth century, the Sri Mahamariaman Temple in Kuala Lumpur is one of
the most ornate and elaborate Hindu temples in the country. The detailed
decorative scheme for the temple incorporates intricate carvings, gold
embellishments, hand-painted motifs and exquisite tiles from Italy and
Spain.
The Sikhs, although a small minority, also have
their temples of more staid design in many parts of the country.
Indigenous Peoples of Sabah & Sarawak
Two unique architectural highlights of the indigenous peoples of Sabah and Sarawak are longhouses and water villages.
Homes to
interior riverine tribes, longhouses are traditional community homes. These
elongated and stilted structures, often built of axe-hewn timber, tied with
creeper fibre and roofed with woven atap or thatched leaves, can house between
20 to 100 families.
Rustic water villages built on stilts are also
commonly found along riverbanks and seafronts. Houses are linked by plank
walkways with boats anchored on the sides. Transport around the village is
usually by sampan or canoe.
COLONIAL PERIOD STYLES
Portuguese
The most
notable example of Portuguese architecture in Malaysia is the A'Famosa fort in
Melaka, which was built by Alfonso d'Albuquerque in 1511. Nearly annihilated by
the Dutch, only a small part of the fortification is still on the hill
overlooking the Melaka town, old port and the Straits of Melaka.
Dutch
Located in
Melaka Town, the Stadthuys with its heavy wooden doors, thick red walls and
wrought-iron hinges is the most imposing relic of the Dutch period in Melaka.
It is a fine example of Dutch masonry and woodworking skills. Built between
1641 and 1660 it is believed to be the oldest building in the East. British
Among the most significant landmarks built by the British is theSultan Abdul Samad Building, which grandly overlooks the Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur. This Moorish beauty, completed in 1897, served as the Colonial Secretariat offices during the British administration.
Pre-Merdeka
or pre-independence shophouses still emanate the characteristic charm of their
earlier days. A display of English ingenuity is the 'five-foot-way' or covered
sidewalk designed to shield pedestrians from the heat and rain.
Games & Pastimes
Silat
Games & Pastimes
EXPERIENCE
THE EXPRESSIONS OF COMMUNITY
Malaysians'
strong sense of community is reflected in many of their traditional games and
pastimes. These activities are still played by local children on cool
afternoons and are also a communal activity during festivities such as before
or after the rice harvest season and weddings.
Silat
This
fascinating Malay martial arts is also an international sport and traditional
dance form. Existing in the Malay Archipelago for centuries, it has mesmerising
fluid movements that are used to dazzle opponents. It is believed that
practising silat will increase one's spiritual strength in accordance with
Islamic tenets. Accompanied by drums and gongs, this ancient art is popularly
performed at Malay weddings and cultural festivals.
Sepak Takraw
Also known
as sepak raga, it is a traditional ball game in which a ball, made by weaving
strips of buluh or bamboo, is passed about using any part of the body except
the lower arms and hands. There are two main types of sepak takraw: bulatan
(circle) and jaring (net).Sepak raga bulatan is the original form in which
players form a circle and try to keep the ball in the air for as long as
possible. Sepak takraw jaring is the modern version in which the ball is passed
across a court over a high net.
Wau
Wau
A wau is a
traditional kite that is especially popular in the state of Kelantan, on the
East Coast of Malaysia. Traditionally flown after the rice harvest season,
these giant kites are often as big as a man - measuring about 3.5 metres from
head to tail. It is called wau because its shape is similar to the Arabic
letter that is pronounced as 'wow'. With vibrant colours and patterns based on
local floral and fauna, these kites are truly splendid sights.
Gasing
Gasing
A gasing is
a giant spinning top that weighs approximately 5kg or 10lbs and may be as large
as a dinner plate. Traditionally played before the rice harvest season, this
game requires strength, co-ordination and skill. The top is set spinning by
unfurling a rope that has been wound around it. Then it is scooped off the ground,
whilst still spinning, using a wooden bat with a centre slit and transferred
onto a low post with a metal receptacle. If expertly hurled, it can spin for up
to 2 hours.
Wayang Kulit
Wayang Kulit
Wayang kulit
is a traditional theatre form that brings together the playfulness of a puppet
show, and the elusive quality and charming simplicity of a shadow play. The
flat two-dimensional puppets are intricately carved, then painted by hand.It is
either made of cow or buffalo hide. Each puppet, a stylised exaggeration of the
human shape, is given a distinctive appearance and not unlike its string puppet
cousins, has jointed "arms". Conducted by a singular master
storyteller called Tok Dalang, wayang kulit usually dramatises ancient Indian
epics.
Congkak
Congkak is a game of mathematics played by womenfolk in ancient times that only required dug out holes in the earth and tamarind seeds. Today, it is an oval solid wood block with two rows of five, seven, or nine holes and two large holes at both ends called "home".Congkak, played with shells, marbles, pebbles or tamarind seeds, requires two players.
Chingay
Famously
from the state of Penang, Chingay or The Giant Flags Procession is a
spectacular procession that celebrates the arrival of spring during the New
Year season. Its trademark elements are giant triangular flags and lanterns.
These flags on equally huge poles are balanced on performers' foreheads, chins,
lower jaws and shoulders. Other entertainers include dancers, jugglers and
magicians.
Sepak Manggis
Sepak
manggis is a unique outdoor game played by the Bajau and Iranun men of Sabah.
Forming a circle and facing each other, players aim to strike the bunga manggis
floral carrier that dangles from a 10-metre high pole. The winner will be
rewarded with money, gifts or edibles, which are in the carrier.
Handicrafts
As most artisans are Muslims, Malaysian handicraft designs are heavily influenced by Islam. The religion prohibits the depiction of the human form in art. Hence, most designs are based on natural elements such as the interlacing of leaves or vines, flowers and animals.
Labu sayong
Handicrafts
FASCINATING HANDICRAFTS GALORE
Malaysia
boasts a delightful variety of traditional handicrafts. Choices range from
priceless authentic antiques to exquisite modern hand-made crafts.
As most artisans are Muslims, Malaysian handicraft designs are heavily influenced by Islam. The religion prohibits the depiction of the human form in art. Hence, most designs are based on natural elements such as the interlacing of leaves or vines, flowers and animals.
EARTHENWARE
Popular
items of traditional design include Perak's labu sayong, geluk, belanga,
Chinese dragon kiln ceramics and Sarawakian tribal motif pottery. Contemporary
items include vases, flower pots, decorative pottery, sculpture and
kitchenware.
Labu sayong
Labu Sayong
is a black-coloured gourd-shaped clay jar typically used to store and cool
water. The state of Perak is renowned for this type of pottery.
Belanga
Found in
many rural Malaysian homes, The belanga is often characterised by a round base
and wide rim. It is often used to cook curries, as it is believed that its
round base allows heat to be distributed more evenly.
Terenang
This
angular-shaped jar is popularly used for storing water in the states of Pahang
and Terengganu. It has a concave neck and a convex body.
Wood Crafts
Wood Crafts
Blessed with
an abundance of timber in boundless tropical forests, Malaysia is renowned for
an assortment of distinctive wood crafts. Traditionally, whole houses were
built from elaborate hand-carved timber. Today, antique Malay-styled engraved
panels, keris dagger handles, Chinese containers, unique Orang Asli spirit
sculptures, intricate walking sticks, kitchen utensils and carved scented woods
are among the wide range of exotic decorative items found in Malaysia.
Metal Crafts
Metal Crafts
Popular
since the early days, traditional brass casting and bronze working are still
used to make an array of utensils. More recently in the 19th century, with the
discovery of tin in Malaysia, pewter has become increasingly popular. Metal
craft products include modern decorative items, kitchen ware and traditional
artifacts like tepak sireh sets, rose-water instruments and keris blades.
Hand-woven Crafts
Hand-woven Crafts
Marvel at
the creative hand-woven crafts of Malaysia. Local plant fibres and parts from
bamboo, rattan, pandan and mengkuangleaves are coiled, plaited, twined and
woven to produce items such as bags, baskets, mats, hats, tudung saji and sepak
raga balls.
TEXTILES
Colourful
and captivating, Malaysia's traditional textiles are much sought after
worldwide. Varieties include batik, songket, pua kumbuand tekat. These textiles
are made into all sorts of decorative items, from haute couture clothes to
shoes, colourful curtains and delicate bed linen.
Batik
Referring to
the process of dyeing fabric by making use of a resistant technique; covering
areas of cloth with wax to prevent it absorbing colours. The colours in batik
are much more resistant to wear than those of painted or printed fabrics
because the cloth is completely immersed in dye.
Songket
Songket
Utilising an
intricate supplementary weft technique where gold threads are woven in between
the longitudinal silk threads of the background cloth. In the past, this rich
and luxurious fabric demonstrated the social status of the Malay elite.
Pua Kumbu
Pua Kumbu
Made from
individually dyed threads on a back strap loom. Its supernatural motifs are
inspired by dreams and ancient animist beliefs. The patterns that emerge are a
fusion of the real and surreal. And each weave is distinctive of its maker's
hand.
Tekat
Tekat
The art of
embroidering golden thread onto a base material, generally velvet, was
traditionally used to decorate traditional Malay weddings regalia.
JEWELLERY & COSTUME ACCESSORIES
Kerongsang
JEWELLERY & COSTUME ACCESSORIES
Enticing
hand-crafted accessories abound in Malaysia. Choose from leather-crafted goods,
beadwork necklaces from Borneo or finely made gold and silver jewellery adorned
with gems.
Kerongsang
A
three-piece brooch set traditionally used to pin the lapels of thebaju kebaya
together. Kerongsang usually comes in sets of three. The typical three-piece
set comprises of a kerongsang ibu (mother piece) which is larger and heavier.
The other two are called thekerongsang anak (child pieces) and are worn below
the kerongsang ibu.
Cucuk Sanggul
Cucuk Sanggul
A
traditional hairpin used to secure hair in a bun at the back of women's heads.
Typically made of gold or silver, these hairpins are normally worn in graduated
sets of three, five or seven by brides and traditional dancers.
Pending
Pending
A large,
intricately ornamented belt buckle worn around the sampin, a skirt-like cloth
worn by men, to complement their baju melayu, the traditional attire for men.
Traditionally, the pending is a sign of wealth and status for men.
Traditional Attire
A DAZZLING TAPESTRY OF ASIAN TRADITIONS
Malay
Before the 20th
century, Malay women still wore kemban, just sarongs tied above the chest, in
public. As Islam became more widely embraced, they started wearing the more
modest yet elegant baju kurung. The baju kurung is a
knee-length loose-fitting blouse that is usually worn over a long skirt with
pleats at the side. It can also be matched with traditional fabrics such as
songket or batik. Typically, these traditional outfits are completed with a
selendang or shawl or tudung or headscarf.
Traditional Attire
A DAZZLING TAPESTRY OF ASIAN TRADITIONS
From
magnificent tribal head-feathers with bark body-covers to antique gold-woven
royal songket fabric, the array of Malaysia's traditional costumes and textiles
are stunningly diverse and colourful.
In the early
days, the aboriginal tribes wore native bark costumes and beads. With the
advent of the ancient kingdoms, hand-loomed fine textiles and intricate Malay
batik were used by the Malay royalty. As foreign trade flourished, costumes and
textiles such as Chinese silk, the Indian pulicat or plaid sarong and the
Arabian jubbah a robe with wide sleeves were introduced to the country.
Today,
traditional attire such as the Malay baju kebaya, Indian saree and Chinese
cheongsam are still widely worn.
Malay
The
traditional attire for Malay men is the baju melayu. The baju melayu is a loose
tunic worn over trousers. It is usually complemented with a sampin - a short
sarong wrapped around the hips.
Chinese
Chinese
Comfortable
and elegant, the traditional cheongsam or 'long dress' is also a popular contemporary
fashion choice for ladies. Usually, it has a high collar, buttons or frog
closures near the shoulder, a snug fit at the waist and slits on either one or
both sides. It is often made of shimmering silk, embroidered satin or other
sensual fabrics.
Indian
Indian
The saree is
the world-renowned traditional Indian garment. A length of cloth usually 5-6
yards in width, the saree is worn with a petticoat of similar shade and a
matching or contrasting choli or blouse. Typically, it is wrapped around the
body such that the pallau - its extensively embroidered or printed end - is
draped over the left shoulder. The petticoat is worn just above or below the
bellybutton and functions as a support garment to hold the saree. Made from a
myriad of materials, textures and designs, the saree is truly exquisite.
Popular with
northern Indian ladies is the salwar kameez or Punjabi suit; a long tunic worn
over trousers with a matching shawl.
The kurta is the traditional attire for men on formal occasions. It is a long knee-length shirt that is typically made from cotton or linen cloth.
The kurta is the traditional attire for men on formal occasions. It is a long knee-length shirt that is typically made from cotton or linen cloth.
Baba
Nyonya
Chinese
immigrants who married Malay partners wore the elegant kebaya that can be
described as traditional haute couture.
Hand-made
with great skill using sheer material, its intricate embroidery is equivalent
to the best Venetian lacework. The pièce de résistance is a delicate needlework
technique called tebuk lubang - literally to punch holes. This involves sewing
the outlines of a floral motif on the fabric and cutting away the insides. When
done correctly, the end result is fine lace-like embroidery on the collar,
lapels, cuffs, hem and the two triangular front panels, which drape over the hips,
known as the lapik.
Portuguese-Eurasian
Portuguese-Eurasian
Descended
from Portuguese settlers of the 16th century, Melakan Portuguese-Eurasian's
traditional attire reflect their heritage. Dominated by the colours black and
red, men wear jackets and trousers with waist sashes whilst ladies wear broad
front-layered skirts.
Sarawak
With its
diverse ethnic groups, Malaysia's largest state, Sarawak, has a plethora of
unique tribal costumes. Using a variety of designs and native motifs, common
materials for the Orang Ulu or upriver tribes are hand-loomed cloths, tree bark
fabrics, feathers and beads. Sarawak is known for the woven pua kumbu of the
Iban tribe,songket of the Sarawak Malay, colourful beaded accessories,
traditional jewellery and head adornments.
Sabah
Like
Sarawak, Sabah is also blessed with a rich mix of ethnic groups. Each group
adorns attire, headgears and personal ornaments with distinctive forms, motifs
and colour schemes characteristic of their respective tribe and district.
However, culturally different groups who live in close proximity may have similarities
in their traditional attire. Notable hats and headdresses include the Kadazan
Dusun ladies' straw hats, the Bajau woven dastar and the headdress of the Lotud
man, which indicate the number of wives he has by the number of fold
points.
Orang Asli
Traditionally
living in the deep jungles of Malaysia, the Orang Asli of Peninsular Malaysia
wore clothing made from natural materials such as tree barks like the terap,
and grass skirts. Ornaments include skillfully woven headbands with intricate
patterns that are made from leaf fronds.
Traditional Music
AN EXOTIC
ENSEMBLE OF ENCHANTING EXPERIENCES
Malaysia's
multi-cultural and multi-racial heritage is most prominently exhibited in its
diverse music and dance forms. The dances of the indigenous Malay, Orang Asli
and different ethnic peoples of Sabah and Sarawak are truly exotic and
enchanting. As the Chinese, Indians and Portuguese settled in Malaysia, the
traditional dances of their homelands became a part of Malaysia's culture and
heritage.
DANCE
Malay Mak Yong
Originating
from Patani in Southern Thailand, Mak Yong was conceived to entertain female
royalty, queens and princesses, when their men were away at war. Combining
romantic drama, dance and operatic singing, tales of the golden age of the
Malay kingdoms are dramatised in enchanting performances.
Kuda Kepang
Kuda Kepang
Kuda Kepang
is a traditional dance brought to the state of Johor by Javanese immigrants.
Dramatising the tales of victorious Islamic holy wars, dancers sit astride mock
horses moving to the hypnotic beats of a percussion ensemble usually consisting
of drums, gongsand angklungs.
Zapin
Zapin
Islamic
influence on Malaysian traditional dance is perhaps most evident in Zapin; a
popular dance in the state of Johor. Introduced by Muslim missionaries from the
Middle East, the original dance was performed to Islamic devotional chanting to
spread knowledge about the history of the Islamic civilisation.
Joget
Malaysia's
most popular traditional dance, is a lively dance with an upbeat tempo.
Performed by couples who combine fast, graceful movements with playful humour,
the Joget has its origins in Portuguese folk dance, which was introduced to
Melaka during the era of the spice trade.
Tarian Lilin
Silat
One of the
oldest Malay traditions and a deadly martial art, Silat is also a danceable art
form. With its flowery body movements, a Silatperformance is spellbinding and
intriguing.
Chinese Lion Dance
Chinese Lion Dance

Dragon Dance

Indian Bharata Natyam
This
classical Indian dance is poetry in motion. Based on ancient Indian epics, this
highly intense and dramatic dance form uses over 100 dance steps and gestures.
As mastery requires many years of practice, some children begin learning the
dance form at the age of five.
Bhangra
Bhangra
Bhangra is a
lively folk music and dance form of the Sikh community. Originally a harvest
dance, it is now part of many social celebrations such as weddings and New Year
festivities. Typically centred around romantic themes with singing and dancing
driven by heavy beats of the dhol, a double-barreled drum, the bhangra is
engagingly entertaining.
Sabah & Sarawak Ngajat
Sabah & Sarawak Ngajat
The Warrior
Dance is a traditional dance of Sarawak's Iban people. This dance is
usually performed during Gawai Kenyalang or 'Hornbill Festival'. Reputedly the
most fearsome of Sarawak's headhunters, the tribe's victorious warriors were
traditionally celebrated in this elaborate festival. Wearing an elaborate
headdress and holding an ornate long shield, the male warrior dancer performs
dramatic jumps throughout this spellbinding dance.
Datun Julud
Datun Julud

Sumazau

Bamboo Dance
Another
highly popular and entertaining traditional dance is Bamboo Dance. Two long bamboo
poles are held horizontally above the ground at ankle-height. They are clapped
together to a high-tempo drumbeat. Requiring great agility, dancers are
required to jump over or between the poles without getting their feet
caught.
Orang Asli
Orang Asli
The
traditional dances of the Peninsular Malaysia's Orang Asli are strongly rooted
in their spiritual beliefs. Dances are commonly used by witch-doctors as
rituals to communicate with the spirit world. Such dances include Genggulang of
the Mahmeri tribe, Berjerom of theJah-Hut tribe and the Sewang of the Semai and
Temiar tribes.
The Portuguese of Melaka Farapeira
The Portuguese of Melaka Farapeira
The
Farapeira is a fast, cheerful dance usually accompanied by guitars and
tambourines, performed by couples dressed in traditional Portuguese costumes.
Branyo
Branyo
Favoured
mainly by the older Portuguese generation, compared to the Farapeira the Branyo
is a more staid dance. Male dancers dressed in cowboy-like costumes and female
dancers dressed in traditional baju kebayas with batik sarongs sway to the
steady rhythm of drums and violins.
MUSIC
Orchestra
MUSIC
Orchestra
Malaysia has
two traditional orchestras: the gamelan and the nobat. Originally from
Indonesia, the gamelan is a traditional orchestra that plays ethereal lilting
melodies using an ensemble of gongpercussion and stringed instruments. The
nobat is a royal orchestra that plays more solemn music for the courts using
serunai and nafiriwind instruments.
In the days
of the ancient Malay kingdoms, the resounding rhythmic beats of the giant
rebana ubi drums conveyed various messages from warnings of danger to wedding
announcements. Later, they were used as musical instruments in an assortment of
social performances.
Kompang
Kompang
Arguably the
most popular Malay traditional instrument, the kompangis widely used in a
variety of social occasions such as the National Day parades, official
functions and weddings. Similar to the tambourine but without the jingling
metal discs, this hand drum is most commonly played in large ensembles, where
various rhythmic composite patterns are produced by overlapping multiple layers
of different rhythms.
Gambus
Gambus

Sape
