Dance

For the Malays, the primary genres of folk dance are the Joget, Zapin, Inang and Asli. The Joget is believed to be a variant of the Portuguese Brundo or Branle, which was popular in 15th century Europe, while the Zapin is the oldest syncretic form of Arab culture.

Although now all are performed as an art form for entertainment instead of its once-believed ritualistic beliefs, these dances are still hugely important in the preservation of some of Malaysia's declining cultural identities. Here are 9 traditional dances which has its roots implanted into the Malaysian dance fabric.

Joget (Jawi: جوڬيت) is a traditional Malay dance that originated in Malacca. It was influenced by the Portuguese dance of Branyo which is believed to have been spread to Malacca during the spice trade. In Malacca, it is better known as Chakunchak.

The traditions of dancing has long featured as a ubiquitous presence in every culture. From the emphatic stomping of ancient aboriginals to the modern-day city swing, dance is an entire culture epitomised through the rhythmic movement of its storytelling qualities.

Here in Malaysia, we are proud to be a colourful nation of diverse ethnicity blessed with a wealth of unique dance styles. Some are graceful in posture, others captivating in a trance-like manner. Although now all are performed as an art form for entertainment instead of its once-believed ritualistic beliefs, these dances are still hugely important in the preservation of some of Malaysia’s declining cultural identities.

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