Mak Yong : The Traditional Dance-Drama

Mak yong is a traditional form of dance-drama from northern Malaysia, particularly the state of Kelantan. It was banned by the PAS political party in 1991 because of its animist and Hindu-Buddhist roots which pre-date Islam in the Asian region by far.

Mak yong is considered the most authentic and representative of Malay performing arts because it is mostly untouched by external sources. Although most traditional Malay dances were influenced by India, Java and other parts of Southeast Asia, mak yong’s singing and musical repertoire are unique. Of the major stories performed in mak yong, most are derived from Kelantan-Pattani mythology.

 

Photo by Adi Safri