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DE’ UNITE: SHE 101 – HIMPUNAN LAPORAN TEKNIKAL PROJEK PELAJAR

1.2 Zapin Dance

Islamic influence on Malaysian traditional dance is perhaps most evident in Zapin, a popular dance
in the state of Johor. Introduced by Muslim missionaries from the Middle East, the original dance was
performed to Islamic devotional chanting to spread knowledge about the history of the Islamic
civilisation. The dancers usually perform in pairs and are accompanied by a traditional music ensemble
which normally consists of the gambus, accordion, guitar, bass, synthesizer, rebab, marwas (bongos),
rebana (drum) and dok. A typical Zapin performance and song can be categorised into three parts.
The first part is called the taqsim or introduction. This is where the gambus is played in a solo manner
as an opening of the performance. Simultaneously, the dancers enter the stage and perform the
sembah or act of respect to the audience. As the performance progress, the dancers perform various
steps and legwork movements. The second part is at the end of every quatrain, where the music and
beating of the drums is played in a rapid beat manner while the dancers move in a jumping manner
called the minta tahto. The third part is the end of the performance, which is known as the tahtim,
whereby the dancers will perform the wainab movements to close the performance.

Figure 1.2 Zapin Dance

1.3 Joget Dance

Malaysia's most popular traditional dance, is a lively dance with an upbeat tempo. The joget has
been known as a quick-paced famous dance throughout Malaysia. It redeems a catchy beat and
cheerful combination of both hands and legs moving at a fast pace. Performed by couples who combine
fast, graceful movements with playful humour, the Joget has its origins in Portuguese folk dance, which
was introduced to Melaka during the era of the spice trade. Joget music and dance portrays a hybrid
character. Tambur its name is derived from the Portuguese is an instrument used during a dance
performance. Violins and framed drums are others examples of instruments used during the
performance. Other textures such as the gong and a malay poetry and the basic techniques are
indigenous. One of the most popular type of Joget is called "Joget Lambak" and usually performed by
a large crowd together in social functions.

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