dances

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As you know, Malaysia is home to many different ethinc groups.
Many an old tradition and custom has been handed down through generations and is distinctly different from others.
This is especially valid for traditional art and performances.

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Mak Yong
Among the many different traditional theatres of the Malaysians, no other dance drama has a more captivating appeal than Mak Yong.
This ancient classic court entertainment, believed to have originated from Kelantan, combines romantic stories, operatic singing and humour.
It is supported by a cast of performers, backed by a traditional orchestra of gongs, drums and violins

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Joget
The Joget is the most popular traditional dance of Malaysia.
It is a lively rendition with fast upbeat tempo and performed by couples who combine fast hand and leg movements.

The Joget has its origins traced back to the Portuguese folk dance which was introduced to Malacca during the era of the spice trade

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Sumazau
The sumazau is the national dance of Sabah.
Dancers comprising two rows of men and women,
dance facing each other in a slow rhythmic movement,
with hand gestures imitating the flying birds

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Candle Dance
Dancers hold a small saucer to which a lit candle is firmly attached.
With graceful body movements, dancers turn saucers upside down without allowing candles to be extinguished

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Kuda Kepang
The Kuda Kepang dance is performed by nine dancers who are seated astride a two dimensional 'horse' made of hide. The dancers re-enact the early Islamic battles in enthusiastic gestures and vigorous action.

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Chinese Opera
Seen on special Chinese festivals such as the
Festival of Hungry Ghost. Actors in heavy make-up
and elaborate costumes perform period dramas
laced with songs backed by traditional music.

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---	Datun Julud The Datun Julud is a popular dance of Sarawak. It symbolizes happiness and thanksgiving to the Gods by a Kenyah prince for being blessed with a grandson. The Sape which is similar to a Banjo, renders the dance beats.

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-----	Classical Indian Dances Classical Indian dances are traditionally performed in temples by devadasies (servants of God) because these dances are regarded as an offering to God, higher than offerings of donations, flowers or mantras (prayers). One such temple dance is the Bharata Natyam which originated in South India in the 3rd century and has great religious significance. The traditional obeisance to God is always observed by the dancers before performing the dance		---
-----		Bhangra The Bhangra Dance, is very much a feature of the Sikh community and has its roots in Punjab, India. A harvest dance, it incorporates dexterity of the dancers and a host of stunts. The Bhangra is a vibrant and colorful dance accompanied by a medley of folk songs and musical instruments such as the drum tambourine and a musical clapper	---

-----	MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS		---
	Gamelan	Ensemble music characterized by hypnotic beats usually accompanying various courts dances as well as ceremonial occasions.
	Kompang	A small hand-drum whose rhythmic beats are used to welcome guests during ceremonial occasions and weddings
	Rebana Ubi	In the days before telephones and facsimiles, Rebana Ubi constituted a mode of communication between villages. Messages of wedding, warnings of danger and other newsworthy items were drummed out using different beats

-----	GAMES AND PASTIMES
	Silat	Silat is the Malay art of self defense. This fascinating Malays sport is also a dance form. It has been known in the Malays Archipelago for hundreds of years. In this art of self-defense, the practitioner also develops spiritual strength according to the tenets of Islam. And this is one of the main reasons as to why many young Malay youths, both males and females are drawn to it.
	Sepak Takraw	Sepak Takraw is one of Malaysia's most popular sports. Players use heels, soles, in-steps, tights, shoulders and head - everything but hands and arms - to keep a small rattan ball aloft.
	Congkak	A game of wits and skills utilizing a congkak board and playing seed.
	Kite Flying	What used to be a post harvesting pastime amongst padi farmers, kite flying now has become an international event. Various festivals are organized which draw participation from countries like the Netherlands, Japan, Germany, Belgium and Singapore. A wau is known for its creative shapes and features. The wau 'bulan' moon kite is one of the most popular shapes.
	Top spinning	A game requiring manual dexterity , timing and strength, a Gasing (spinning top) can weigh about 4 kg and sometimes can be as big as a dinner plate. Top spinning was a post-harvesting pastime when friendly competitions were held between neighboring villages
	Wayang Kulit	Wayang Kulit or "shadow play" is performed by casting animated shadows on a screen The puppet characters are taken from the Hindu epics Ramayana or Mahabharatta.