‘Magunatip' to feature at Expo 2025 Osaka
Published on: Fri, Jul 04, 2025
By: Bernama Text Size: Dancers showcasing Borneo-themed performances during a gathering of Malaysian students in Osaka, recently. Kuala Lumpur: The National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) is using its participation at the Expo 2025 Osaka as a platform to showcase Malaysian culture through captivating traditional dance performances for international audiences. According to the department, its participation at the expo is not merely an art performance, but serves as a platform for cultural diplomacy, fostering connections between Malaysia and the global community while supporting the promotion of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Advertisement It said performances such as Joget Lambak and Magunatip (bamboo dance), as well as a special choreography set to the Visit Malaysia 2026 theme song, have created a phenomenon of their own at the expo. 'There are visitors who return daily to learn the dance steps, and during the interactive segments, the entire audience joins in, dancing together. This clearly demonstrates that Malaysian art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers,' it said in a statement. JKKN's official representative, Rayner Mailap, in the same statement, attributed the success to careful planning, particularly in the selection of talented dancers and thoughtfully crafted choreography, ensuring that every performance at the Malaysian Pavilion stage genuinely reflects the richness and vibrancy of Malaysian culture. He said that skills, discipline, versatility, and the ability to multitask were among the key criteria considered in selecting dancers to represent Malaysia at the exposition, which runs for six months from April 13 to October 13. "We placed strong emphasis on authentic movements, proper attire, aesthetic presentation, clear delivery, effective audience interaction, self-confidence, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges during performances,' said Rayner. One of the dancers, Nur Syahierah Mat Sapauwi, shared that the visual elements, particularly the traditional costumes worn by the dancers, were among the aspects that most captivated audiences. She noted that the attire from the Murut tribe, in particular, often drew admiration. 'This costume, made from tree bark and adorned with 'kuang raya' bird feathers and intricate beadwork, represents both beauty and bravery. It stands as a proud symbol of Borneo's rich cultural identity and frequently receives praise from visitors,' she said. Another dancer, Mohammad Fazly Izwan Abd Rahman, added that the 'Joget Lambak' was chosen as the dance taught to visitors because of its lively, engaging nature and simplicity, making it easy for people of all backgrounds to learn and enjoy. 'This dance is not only enjoyable, but also serves as a cherished form of entertainment for Malaysians during communal gatherings and celebrations. It is often performed in large groups, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere,' he said. According to JKKN, the 2025 Osaka Expo is more than just a platform for cultural expression – it is a space for creating lasting memories for thousands of visitors from around the world. 'With every dance move, mile, and round of applause, they express their understanding, respect, and admiration for Malaysia,' read the statement * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
15 minutes ago
- The Star
Malaysian rapper Kmy Kmo and versatile singer Halim rev up for their new single with a social message: 'Layar Boneka'
'This one comes with a sound advice, ' says versatile Malaysian singer Halim and well-known rapper Kmy Kmno on their new single 'Layar Boneka', which was released to the masses last week. Halim and Kmy Kmo said this song is just not for entertainment, as it also comes with a strong message for the people in this country. 'We want to speak up, we don't just want to sing," said the duo, for the song was created by Kmy Kmo himself and HMstatenine. Kmy Kmo, a well-known name in the local entertainment world, is a rapper famous for his unique voice, rap style, and his songs also have always had meaningful lyrics. Meanwhile, Halim, an artistic figure who is more comfortable with free expression, infuses soul into every verse of his singing, while also being active in entrepreneurial activities. Kmy Kmo's recent effort was 'Ke Mana Ni', a smash hit single which he collaborated with his good friends Luca Sikta and Salammusik. That effort was also about the current living conditions and issues youths face in the city. As for the new song, Halim and Kmy Kmo said they were excited about working together for the first time. "I was happy to duet with Kmy Kmo and record a song together because I see him as a versatile rapper and also as an element of Nusantara music in his music. "It just so happens that I am interested in the music that Kmy brings. I am also interested in various genres such as Slow Rock, Pop Ballad, and Hip Hop. But I prefer the Hip Hop music genre," said Halim. "Getting to know Kmy Kmo from the filming set for the Astro Oasis TV programme produced by my own company, titled Manhajj Mutawiff, has inspired me to move more into the recording studio. Kmy Kmo has been involved in producing the theme song for the programme." The 'Layar Boneka' single has also become the starting point in the collaboration of Halim & Kmy Kmo's partnership for the current Malay rapper/hip hop music market, which is also popular in Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei. The concept of this song highlights an emotional vocal struggle, calling for courage, self-esteem and determination to rise from the fall and use slander as a stepping stone to continue to stand firm. The song recording and music arrangement were done by song producer – HMstatenine, featuring a combination of modern pop, contemporary ballads, and Malay hip hop elements, creating a musical experience that is not only sonically interesting but also emotionally touching. 'This song is for those who have been silent for too long because of the suffocating insults; it's time for us to level it all out,' said Halim. Kmy added that: "I believe Halim has a unique voice that could be said to be very suitable for the Kapak Rock or Malay Rock Genre. He is also a friend who is very diligent and sincere in learning something new, daring to challenge himself. It was a brilliant experience working with him." Kmy added that he hopes the messages in the lyrics of this song can be conveyed to all the communities in the country. "This is a song for everyone who has gone through life under very tough circumstances," he added. Top local producer Luncai Emas is also acting as digital distributor for this song. The official audio and music video for 'Layar Boneka' are available on all digital channels and the Luncai Emas YouTube channel.
New Straits Times
36 minutes ago
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Nasyid group Inteam makes impact in Algeria music festival
ALGIERS: Popular nasyid group Inteam recently captivated audiences at the 11th Constantine International Chanting Festival in Algeria, successfully bridging cultural and linguistic divides during their debut North African tour. The group delivered a soulful performance that stood out amongst nine foreign ensembles from Oman, Tunisia, Belgium, Jordan, Senegal, Syria, Tanzania, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. The festival took place in the historic city of Constantine from June 25 to 30, which also featured seven Algerian teams at the event. Bernama reported yesterday that Malaysian Ambassador to Algeria, Rizany Irwan Muhamad Mazlan, highlighted the group's impact. "Their traditional Malay attire sparked a keen interest and admiration amongst the international audience," he said. "This act of cultural diplomacy added a special touch to their artistic presentation." Inteam described their first tour of North Africa as a journey that transcended linguistic, national, and cultural boundaries through nasyid. Rizany added that Inteam's participation in the prestigious festival not only strengthens Malaysia's cultural representation abroad but also "opens doors for greater collaboration on future international artistic platforms."
New Straits Times
10 hours ago
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Mini-mart meltdown turns cinematic gold
IT'S 2am. Fluorescent lights buzz overhead. Someone's voice echoes through the empty convenience store, caught in between the aisles. Sounds of conflict begin to escalate, piercing the silence of the serene hour. The cashier watches, probably wondering if this is what they signed up for during the night shift. These viral mini-mart meltdown videos scroll past most of our feeds as fleeting Internet entertainment. But for 25-year-old Sanadtkumar Ganesan, they were pure inspiration. "I kept seeing these videos of people having heated arguments in mini marts," he says in a recent interview. "I found myself drawn to the tension beneath the surface." He found himself wondering about the stories behind those moments of public breakdown. "What drives someone to vent at 2am in public? What are they going through?" That curiosity became 'Late Night Mini-Mart', a short film about four strangers whose lives collide in an unexpected emotional crossroad. Between shelves of snacks and under harsh lighting, vulnerability meets frustration meets genuine human connection. COLLABORATIVE EFFORT Sanadtkumar assembled four non-actors for his cast, including Malaysian stand-up comedian Asuraajan. "None of them had acting experience," he says. Two weeks of rehearsals focused on character understanding and building authentic chemistry between the performers. Sanadtkumar's keen observation has resonated with viewers and made an impact. The short film featuring a Selayang mini mart just won Best International Short at the TFS FEST 2025 Pinnacle Awards Gala in Toronto. The film beat international entries, chosen by Toronto Film School students who recognised its storytelling, direction, editing and production quality. During his acceptance speech at TIFF Lightbox Cinema 1, Sanadtkumar said: "This film came from a place of wanting to push past self-doubt and fear. We're more than our limits, and I hope this film reminds people of that." The production was a masterclass in efficiency, shot over two nights from 10pm to 3am. The team transformed an actual mini mart in Selayang into their film set. "Everything had to be well planned," Sanadtkumar recalls. The tight schedule meant every decision mattered, every shot counted. Behind the camera, the small production team wore multiple hats. Sanadtkumar co-directed, coordinated and managed the crew while fielding constant questions from every department. "Directing is really about answering questions," he explains. "Why this makeup? Why this costume? Why this timing? You're constantly making decisions and offering clarity." The collaborative energy kept him motivated. "Eventually, you're surrounded by people who ask thoughtful questions, and you get to collaborate by finding the right answers together." CREATING MEANINGFUL WORK This international recognition caps a creative journey that began early. At 14, Sanadtkumar met longtime collaborator Rammya, who invited him to edit a music video. "I was just a kid who loved movies and edited videos of my own, but she gave me a real chance." That moment of belief laid the groundwork for ET Boost Productions, their company handling film production, photography, publicity and digital campaigns. His drive for impact showed up young. At 15, he co-founded Ascendance, a youth initiative now reaching more than 55,000 students across 26 countries. "It started with three close friends. We were the kind of kids who brainstormed social impact projects together." His teacher parents influenced his path. Watching them help students beyond the classroom shaped his desire to create meaningful work. His filmmaking heroes reflect this sensibility: Christopher Nolan, Kamal Haasan, and especially the late Yasmin Ahmad, whose 'Talentime' remains his all-time favourite. "It changed my life," he says, crediting her for showing how Malaysian stories can resonate globally. Currently in Canada, Sanadtkumar meets with industry figures like Andrew Mayer, executive producer of 'Schitt's Creek', while developing his next project. The details remain under wraps, but his mission stays clear: "Keep growing, keep learning. "When you lean into your strengths, you'll start to understand how you can impact the world." From viral video inspiration to international awards, Sanadtkumar has turned late-night mini-mart chaos into cinematic gold. Watch 'Late Night Mini-Mart" on the ET Boost YouTube channel.
