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Daily Express
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
‘Magunatip' to feature at Expo 2025 Osaka
Published on: Friday, July 04, 2025 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
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Melaka revives ronggeng dance as cultural tourism attraction
MELAKA: The Melaka government has welcomed efforts to revive the traditional ronggeng dance as a potential cultural tourism attraction. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the initiative would be carefully managed to ensure it complies with Islamic principles. He explained that ronggeng, also known as joget lambak, originated in Melaka but has faded over time. 'We will revive this traditional dance in an impromptu style, as long as it does not contravene hukum syarak,' he said. Ab Rauf made these remarks after officiating the closing ceremony of the Bicara Seni Budaya discourse, part of the Rentak Bertandak Antarabangsa Melaka cultural programme. He also received the programme's resolution book from Prof Dr Mohd Anis Md Nor, executive director of the Nusantara Performing Arts Research Centre. The revival of ronggeng will involve collaboration with the Melaka branch of the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) and other stakeholders. Ab Rauf highlighted the dance's artistic value, noting its potential to become a state cultural asset alongside Dondang Sayang. 'Ronggeng incorporates pantun, which helps preserve Malay literary and performing arts,' he added. The resolutions from the forum will also be reviewed for inclusion in the state's cultural policy, reinforcing Melaka's commitment to traditional arts and heritage appreciation.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
JKKN showcases Malaysian culture at Expo 2025 Osaka with traditional dances
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) is making waves at Expo 2025 Osaka by presenting Malaysia's rich cultural heritage through vibrant traditional dance performances. More than just entertainment, these acts serve as a bridge for cultural diplomacy, strengthening ties between Malaysia and the global community while boosting the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign. Among the highlights are the Joget Lambak and Magunatip (bamboo dance), alongside a specially choreographed routine set to the Visit Malaysia 2026 theme song. These performances have captivated international audiences, with some visitors returning daily to learn the steps. 'The interactive segments see the entire audience joining in, proving that Malaysian art transcends language and cultural barriers,' JKKN said in a statement. Rayner Mailap, JKKN's official representative, credited the success to meticulous planning, including the selection of skilled dancers and well-crafted choreography. The dancers were chosen based on their discipline, versatility, and ability to engage audiences authentically. Nur Syahierah Mat Sapauwi, one of the performers, noted that traditional costumes, particularly the Murut tribe attire, drew significant admiration. Made from tree bark and adorned with bird feathers and beadwork, the outfit symbolizes Borneo's cultural pride. Mohammad Fazly Izwan Abd Rahman explained that Joget Lambak was selected for its lively and inclusive nature, making it easy for visitors to participate. The dance is a staple at Malaysian celebrations, fostering communal joy. JKKN emphasized that Expo 2025 Osaka is not just a stage but a space for creating lasting memories. 'With every dance move and applause, visitors express their appreciation for Malaysia's culture,' the department added.
Barnama
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
Spirit Of Unity To Be Highlighted By Performances In Conjunction With 46th ASEAN Summit
The performances are meant to highlight Malaysia's rich multicultural heritage and pay tribute to the cultures of ASEAN member states and external partners such as the Gulf Cooperation Council and China. Dancers from the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) actively undergoing rehearsals in preparation for the Gala Dinner in conjunction with the 46th ASEAN Summit, at the venue yesterday. By Nurhafizah Tan KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 (Bernama) -- ASEAN's cultural diversity and spirit of unity are key elements that will be highlighted during the performances lined up to entertain delegates at the 46th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings which begin this week. National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Director-General Mohd Amran Mohd Haris said that each performance has been curated not only to showcase Malaysia's unique multiracial identity and also to pay tribute to the cultures of other ASEAN countries and external partners such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China. He stated that JKKN, which is leading the performance segment at official events, including the May 26 gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aims to strengthen regional ties through an inclusive cultural showcase that promotes the ASEAN spirit. 'We're incorporating elements from various cultures -- from contemporary dances that reflect the Malaysian identity to ASEAN songs performed in the various languages of the region. 'It's vital that all delegates feel a sense of belonging when watching the performances and for everyone to be able to enjoy the show. This is aligned with the theme of Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 that promotes the spirit of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability' among member countries,' he told Bernama. Sharing details about the gala dinner, Mohd Amran said the event will feature performances by renowned Malaysian artistes such as Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Datuk Zainal Abidin, Shila Amzah, Bob Yusof, Asmidar, and Yasmin Aziz. 'The performances also cater to guests who hail from the various participating countries. For example, the Arabic song 'Kun Anta' will be sung by Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza and the Permata Seni Choir in consideration of the GCC's participation, while singer Shila Amzah will perform the Mandarin song 'Zheng Fu'. 'As for ASEAN countries, the evening's entertainment will be enriched by a medley of ASEAN national songs performed by Bob Yusof, Asmidar, and Yasmin Aziz,' he added.
New Straits Times
17-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Rafizi backs PKR disciplinary board's fair campaign call, warns against selective enforcement
KOTA BARU: PKR deputy president candidate Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has agreed with the PKR disciplinary board's recommendation to refrain from tarnishing the party's image or launching personal attacks but emphasised that the guidelines must be applied fairly to all. Rafizi, who is also the Economy Minister, said the board's guidelines are capable of promoting healthy competition within the party, but they must be implemented consistently. "If people recall the personal attacks against me, they happened suddenly, with statement after statement being issued, including claims of rejection by the grassroots. "Later, statements emerged accusing me of neglecting the grassroots. These are baseless allegations, and the PKR disciplinary board must take action against all parties responsible for creating this situation. "In addition, I have also been targeted by irresponsible groups on social media, which should not occur. "However, I view this as part of the challenges during the campaign period," he said at a press conference after the Hidupkan Idealisme Reformasi dalam Ujian Kuasa (HIRUK) tour programme at the state National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Complex in Tanjong Chat last night. Also present were PKR vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar and PKR vice-president Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun. Rafizi expressed his hope that his opponents would not "throw stones and hide their hands" by attacking him and then reporting him to the disciplinary board when he responds, as if they had done nothing wrong. "The process is straightforward. If anyone feels that a candidate has violated party protocols, they can lodge a complaint, and the disciplinary board can then conduct a fair investigation. "As for me, if there is a desire to debate and determine who is better, I will highlight my opponent's weaknesses, and you can do the same. I don't go around making complaints or reports," he said. Previously, the media reported that the PKR disciplinary board had reminded all candidates and their supporters not to tarnish the party's image and to refrain from personal attacks and baseless accusations during the final stage of the party elections. Its chairperson, Datin Paduka Dr Tan Yee Kew, said candidates should instead focus their campaigns on policy discussions and ideas. She said actions involving personal attacks, open conflict, and making derogatory public statements against party members are inappropriate, unacceptable, and would only harm party unity.
