Arts

Joshua C.
Cariaga BPA-3D
MALAYSIA
Traditional Arts and Crafts
Malaysia boasts a rich

tapestry of traditional arts
and crafts, reflecting its
diverse cultural heritage.
These crafts are not merely
decorative items, but hold
deep cultural significance,
passed down through
generations, and often
intertwined with religious beliefs and daily life.
A Glimpse into Malaysian Heritage

Batik is a prominent art form, using wax-resist dyeing techniques to create
intricate patterns on fabric. Popular motifs include leaves, flowers, and
geometric designs, with butterflies being a common exception to the Islamic
prohibition on depicting humans and animals.
Songket, a handwoven fabric of silk or cotton, is intricately plated with gold

or silver threads, creating a shimmering effect. It is often worn on special
occasions like weddings and funerals, symbolizing wealth and status.
from religious accessories to tableware and decorative items. Its enduring
shine and glamorous appearance make it a popular choice.
Nyonya beadwork and embroidery, associated with the Peranakan

community, involves painstakingly stitching fine beads onto costumes,
purses, handkerchiefs, and slippers. These intricate designs, often featuring
floral and butterfly motifs, take months to complete and are highly prized.
Keris, an asymmetrical dagger, is believed to possess magical powers, often

used as a weapon, talisman, and status symbol. Its intricate designs and
cultural significance make it a cherished artifact.
Festival and Celebration
Malaysia’s diversity not only influences the cuisine and language, but also
the festivals and events that are sprinkled across the yearly calendar. From
the culturally-significant Chinese New Year in January or February, to the
awesome spectacle that is the F1 Grand Prix, the list of magnificent
Malaysian holidays is simply awesome.
Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year celebrations in Malaysia are huge since a huge
population of Chinese reside here. The event is held at the end of January or
beginning of February, and generally lasts for about two weeks. Chinese
cuisine, dragon dances, and other performances are held in the major
shopping malls and community squares throughout the region.
Thaipusam
Held at the end of January, beginning of February, the Thaipusam festival is a
must-see that happens every year. A Hindu celebration, amazing acts of
religious devotion are expressed by impaling oneself with hooks and spears.
The event is primarily held at the Batu Caves temple to the north of Kuala
Lumpur.
Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix

Attracting thousands of spectators to Kuala Lumpur every March, the
Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix is one of the best races on the world circuit.
The event is held at the Sepang International Circuit to the south of the
capital.
Malaysia Water Festival

The Malaysia Water Festival is the perfect time to cool off from the intense
heat and humidy of the country. Labuan is the host every April, which sees a
plethora of water activities in the spotlight. Jet-ski races, canoeing, kayaking,
parasailing, fishing and thrilling boat rides are the main attractions during
this exciting weekend.
Borneo International Jazz Festival

The Borneo International Jazz Festival draws thousands of spectators to the
Miri Resort City in May with some of the world’s best jazz talents. Around
7,000 visitors flock to this small city for the event annually, which is often
tagged as the best musical celebration on Malaysia’s calendar.
Language and Oral Tradition
Malay Folklore: The national language, Malay, is central to preserving oral

traditions like legends, myths, and folktales. The "Hikayat Hang Tuah," a
collection of stories about a legendary Malay warrior, is a prime example,
showcasing the importance of bravery and loyalty.
Iban Poetry: Iban communities in Sarawak have a vibrant tradition of
poetry and storytelling, often used to celebrate their history and heritage.
These oral expressions are vital to preserving their cultural identity and
passing down knowledge about their ancestors and traditions.
Kadazan Dusun Storytelling: The Kadazan Dusun people in Sabah have a

rich tradition of storytelling, often featuring tales of mythical creatures and
ancestral spirits. These stories serve to teach valuable lessons about life,
nature, and their cultural beliefs, strengthening community bonds and
preserving their unique heritage
Trixcy Lara Gillo BPA-3D
SINGAPORE
Traditional Arts and Crafts

1.Nyonya Kebaya
The sarong kebaya is the traditional garb of Peranakan women and comes in
a two-piece ensemble: a long skirt wrapped around the waist (sarong) and a
long-sleeved blouse (kebaya). It combines Indonesian, Arabic and Chinese
elements, which is fitting given Singapore’s cultural history. Shophouse
Rumah Kim Choo is home to one of the city’s last remaining kebaya
designers, where you’ll be able to commission a bespoke piece all of your
own.
2. Peranakan beadwork
Peranakan beadwork often depicts animals, myths and flowers. Such is the
precision required, it was said to be the ultimate test of a girl’s patience and
attention to detail – qualities matchmakers once cherished in arranging
marriages. You won’t find great Peranakan beadwork just anywhere, and
prices differ based on the type of bead and intricacy of design. Try making
your own beaded shoes at Rumah Bebe.
3. Effigies
Wooden effigies are used by Taoists and Buddhists in religious worship, often
depicting deities and historical figures. The number of workshops that
produce and repair these statues has sadly dwindled; Say Tian Hng, which
opened in 1896, is now the last Taoist effigy-making shop in Singapore. Here,
trained docents lead a tour to introduce the stories of these deities and the
ancient craft of effigy making.
4. Lanterns
Making traditional Chinese lanterns by hand is a niche trade, split into two
categories: Teochew and Fuzhou lanterns. Both comprise a bamboo frame
and oil-coated silk paper, but the difference lies in their frame-weaving
methods: the former uses a criss-cross pattern for its splints, while the latter
places them in parallel.
5. Chinese seals
The art of seal engraving originated during China’s Han Dynasty, when seals
were utilised for signatures or as signs of authority, and went on to be used
across much of Asia. It may seem simple but this art form requires a high
degree of skill; every mark counts on such a tiny surface area. While not
many people use seals these days, they are often bought as personalised
keepsakes.
Festival and Celebration
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures,

and its festivals and celebrations reflect this vibrant diversity.
Chinese New Year: This grand festival transforms Chinatown into a

dazzling spectacle of lights, lanterns, and festivities. Enjoy nightly street
performances, lion dances, and bustling bazaars. Don't miss the Chingay
parade, a stunning display of floats, costumes, and performances, and the
River Hongbao festival with its giant lanterns, amusement rides, and cultural
shows.
Thaipusam: This Hindu festival honors Lord Murugan, a deity known for
vanquishing evil. Devotees carry kavadis, ornate frames often adorned with
sharp skewers, as a practice of self-mortification. The procession through
Little India is a powerful and moving spectacle.
Hari Raya Puasa: This Muslim festival marks the end of Ramadan, the
month of fasting. It's a time for celebration, with families gathering, wearing
new clothes, and enjoying delicious traditional dishes. The Geylang Serai
bazaar is a vibrant hub of activity, with colorful lights, festive decorations,
and a lively atmosphere.
Language and Oral Tradition

Singapore's diverse population has resulted in a rich tapestry of languages
and oral traditions. While English is the official language of administration
and business, many Singaporeans are fluent in multiple languages, reflecting
their heritage.
Singlish: A unique blend of English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and other local
dialects, Singlish is a vibrant and informal language used in casual
conversations. It's a testament to Singapore's multiculturalism and a source
of amusement for both locals and visitors.
Oral Traditions in Different Ethnic Groups: Each ethnic group in

Singapore possesses its own oral traditions. For example, Chinese
Singaporeans have a rich tradition of storytelling, often featuring tales of
mythical creatures and historical events. Malay Singaporeans have a strong
tradition of folklore, including legends and myths about heroes and
supernatural beings. Indian Singaporeans have a vibrant tradition of oral
poetry and storytelling, often used to celebrate their culture and heritage.
Importance of Oral Traditions: These oral traditions are not just

entertainment; they are vital to preserving cultural identity, passing down
knowledge about history, beliefs, and values, and strengthening community
bonds. They offer a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of
Singapore.

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Joshua C.

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Malaysia boasts a rich

A Glimpse into Malaysian Heritage

Songket, a handwoven fabric of silk or cotton, is intricately plated with gold

Nyonya beadwork and embroidery, associated with the Peranakan

Keris, an asymmetrical dagger, is believed to possess magical powers, often

Festival and Celebration

Chinese New Year

Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix

Malaysia Water Festival

Borneo International Jazz Festival

Language and Oral Tradition

Malay Folklore: The national language, Malay, is central to preserving oral

Kadazan Dusun Storytelling: The Kadazan Dusun people in Sabah have a

Trixcy Lara Gillo BPA-3D

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Festival and Celebration

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures,

Chinese New Year: This grand festival transforms Chinatown into a

Language and Oral Tradition

Oral Traditions in Different Ethnic Groups: Each ethnic group in

Importance of Oral Traditions: These oral traditions are not just

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