ASEAN Festival 2025

The Magunatip, also known as the bamboo dance, is a beloved dance form in Sabah, Malaysia. This entertaining and challenging dance requires precise timing and movement to avoid getting caught between the clapping bamboo poles. As the performance progresses, the tempo and music increase, pushing the dancers to showcase their agility and quickness. Historically, the Magunatip was performed to welcome indigenous Murut headhunters after conflicts, lending it an intense and dynamic quality. Today, it is commonly seen at cultural functions and celebratory events, serving as a vibrant expression of Sabah's rich heritage.

The Sumazau, is performed as a gesture of gratitude during rice planting and harvesting, as an expression of resistance against oppression, for polytheistic worship, and to heal ailments. Dancers don traditional attire, while the dance itself is accompanied by the enchanting sounds of gongs and a distinctive drum rhythm. Inspired by the graceful flight patterns of eagles, dancers mimic the wings of the bird, moving in close proximity without physical contact. The Sumazau is a cherished dance performed during weddings and other special occasions, embodying the spirit and traditions of the Kadazan-Dusun people.

The Lion Dance, is a dynamic performance, carried out by pairs of dancers, requires physical and mental agility, reflecting martial arts prowess. The weight of the lion costume, with its intricately designed head and flowing cloth body, tests the strength of the performers as they execute awe-inspiring movements. Accompanied by the rhythmic ensemble of tanggu drums, cymbals, and gongs, the dancers synchronize their steps to the explosive beats, complemented by the crackling of firecrackers. The animated lion heads, manipulated by the dancer's skillful use of teeth, add a captivating charm to the spectacle.

The Zapin, traditionally performed by male dancers but now also embraced by women, holds a rich cultural history. Introduced by Persian and Arab missionaries in the fifteenth century, it has become a cherished dance form in Malaysia. The music accompanying the Zapin combines traditional and contemporary instruments like the gambus, marwas, and violin. The dance style varies across states, allowing dancers to interact, tease, challenge, or simply enjoy each other's company. Typically performed in pairs, the Zapin invites everyone to join and dance the night away with a partner.

The Kuda Kepang, adds a distinct regional influence to Malaysia's rich cultural tapestry. This traditional dance form remains popular in Johor, featuring dancers who may enter a trance-like state believed to involve spirit possession. The mesmerizing performance showcases the dancers' incredible physical abilities without harm. Accompanied by traditional music played on instruments such as the angklung, gendang, and jidur, the troupe of nine dancers, known as "pemain" or "players," tells a captivating story through their graceful movements and traditional Javanese attire.

Mak Yong, combines acting, music, and elaborate costumes. Traditionally performed in royal theaters, it showcases a rich heritage that dates back before the Islamization of Malaysia. The dance is accompanied by instruments like the spiked lute, gong, kesi, drum, and flute, and is not only for entertainment but also believed to have healing properties. However, due to its mystical elements, Mak Yong performances were banned in 1998. With declining apprenticeships, this important tradition faces challenges in preserving its dramatic and musical repertoire and finding seasoned performers.