Zapin Festival

Posted by Roslan Tangah (aka Rasso) (Limbang, Sarawak, Malaysia) on 11 September 2007 in Lifestyle & Culture and Portfolio.

Zapin (Jawi:زافين) is a dance form which is popular in Malaysia especially in the state of Johor. It is believed to have been introduced by Muslim missionaries from the Middle East in the 14th century.

In the old days, only males were allowed to perform but nowadays, female dancers are included. It used to be performed exclusively for religious ceremonies but through the years it has become a form of traditional entertainment, hence the participation of female dancers are allowed.

The dancers usually perform in pairs and are accompanied by a traditional music ensemble normally consists of the gambus, accordion, violin, marwas (bongos), rebana (drum) and dok.

There are numerous types of zapin to be precise.Categorise by regions in Johor, each type varies by the movement and style of dance.

Click HERE to view all photos during Festival Zapin MAKUM 2007.

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