Traditional Games
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 art 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
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
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 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.
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