E-BOOK MAIN ZAPIN ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN)

29 - 31 October 2021

MAA(ASI2NSW0EZ2AAA1RNPA)IN

Main Zapin Aswara 202 1 tari_aswara tari_aswara
www.aswara.edu.m y 016-739 3345 / 017-247 177 2

MAIN PERFORMANCE
(OPENING NIGHT)

WEBINAR
ZAPIN : THEN & NOW

LANGKAH BERSAMA:
VIDEO DISCUSSION AN2D0H1IS0T-O2R0Y 1OF7MAIN ZAPIN ASWARA

MAIN PERFORMANCE
(CLOSING NIGHT)

MESSAGE FROM
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, together with its’ cultural
departments and agencies including ASWARA, is mandated to ensure
that the future generations understand and appreciate Malaysia’s rich
and diverse cultural heritage.
Dance, culture and tourism are intricately interwoven and interde-
pendent. Dance is an invaluable national heritage which also features
as cultural tourism product. Having skipped a few years, Main Zapin
ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) is back stronger!
This year, the Faculty of Dance ASWARA convenes local and interna-
tional audiences from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand to
experience a variety of Zapin. Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) pro-
vides an intellectual platform for students and activists, showcasing
webinar discussions and performances of 13 established and highly
reputable international artists, companies and organisations.
Congratulations ASWARA for organising this programme. May Main
Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) leave everyone with indelible memo-
ries.

YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia

MESSAGE FROM
Secretary General
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and
Culture Malaysia
Chairman
Akademi Seni Budaya dan
Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

Main Zapin, organised by Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture (MO-
TAC) through it’s agency Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebang-
saan (ASWARA) was rst performed in 2010. This programme was un-
fortunately put on hold for several years, but we are proud that it has
been revived this year.
After 27 years of promoting and preserving Malaysian traditional arts
through education, ASWARA has placed itself as the institution of
choice. ASWARA now intends to carry on the vision for greater explo-
ration of knowledge and exchange with a more global approach, Main
Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN). This certainly will have a positive im-
pact on the creative industries and arts education especially tradition-
al dance in Malaysia. The programme has garnered the support of gov-
ernment dance agencies, tertiary institutions, professional companies,
independent artists, as well as academics, producers, choreographers
and directors.

Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) encompasses a broad spectrum
of the arts to inspire young artists and chart future directions for the
traditional arts. With participation from countries such as Brunei, In-
donesia, Singapore, and Thailand, greater exposure as well as knowl-
edge and skills exchange will be realised. I wish to congratulate ev-
eryone who have contributed to the success of Main Zapin ASWARA
2021 (ASEAN)!

YBhg. Datuk Wira Dr. Noor Zari Hamat

Secretary General
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia
Chairman
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

MESSAGE FROM
Dean, Faculty of Dance ASWARA

Greetings everyone, and welcome to our
Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN).
We would rst like to take this opportunity to thank the Ministry of
Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), for their collaboration with us
on this program. Furthermore, we would also like to extend our ut-
most gratitude for the cooperation received from our four wonder-
ful ASEAN neighbours, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei,
not forgetting our own beautiful country, Malaysia.
I would also like to express my congratulations to the family of the
Faculty of Dance of ASWARA, who have collaboratively helped in
the running of this program. The organization of such programs,
through cooperation and strategic networking, is highly encour-
aged, in an e ort to ensure that each program implemented pro-
vides added value and positive impact to society as a whole. What’s
more, with the struggle of the ongoing pandemic COVID-19, we
must all ensure that e orts to uphold the arts continue to thrive.
Distinguished guests, our former Prime Minister launched the Visit
Malaysia 2020 Campaign (VM2020) themed ‘Visit Truly Asia Ma-
laysia 2020’ on the 22nd of July 2019. This campaign is in line with
the vision and mission of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
(MOTAC), which continuously develops and promotes Malaysia
in becoming a world-class tourism and cultural destination on par
with other countries.

Leaning towards that direction, we, the Faculty of Dance of ASWARA,
have taken this opportunity to organize an ASEAN level program that
initiates a good relationship with neighboring countries, in an e ort to
uphold our Malaysian heritage, zapin, and to ensure the preservation
and protection of our cultural heritage.
We hope that this program can be a means of bringing us together in
reviving our passion in the eld of arts and culture, education, tourism,
and in the eyes of the world, so that zapin continues to grow and be
appreciated by all members of the society.

Zamzuriah Zahari

Dean, Faculty of Dance
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

MESSAGE FROM
Artistic Director, Main Zapin ASWARA
2021 (ASEAN)

Greetings to all colleagues, friends and par-
ticipants of Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASE-
AN).
As the artistic director of this event, I have been given the opportunity to say
a few words in conjunction with this major event.
Since Main Zapin was held for the rst time in 2010, ASWARA has implement-
ed this program ve times, in order to preserve and elevate the art of the
zapin dance. Thanks to ASWARA’s commitment through the Faculty of Dance,
this will be the sixth time Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) is being organ-
ised.
The initial e orts of the dance faculty were to hold zapin workshops, which
aimed to share knowledge, as well as strengthen and improve the aptitude
and skills of zapin for ASWARA students, as well as those from institutions of
higher learning.
This year’s Main Zapin is held online in accordance with the new norms. The
countries involved are Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, as well as Ma-
laysia being the host.
I hope that we will all bene t from this wonderful experience and let’s Main
Zapin together!

Mohd Seth Hamzah

Lecturer, Faculty of Dance
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

AKADEMI SENI BUDAYA DAN WARISAN KEBANGSAAN
(ASWARA)

Under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, the
National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Akademi Seni Budaya dan
Warisan Kebangsaan – ASWARA) is an institution of higher education that
specializes in learning and training in performing arts, visual communication
design, creative writing, lm and video, fully supported and funded by the
Government of Malaysia. The concept and idea for a national institution of
arts and culture studies was initiated at the National Congress for Culture
in 1971, to ensure the continuity of Malaysia’s cultural and artistic heritage.
As a result of this concerted e ort to develop the creative industries, par-
allel to the achievement of national progress and developed nation
status, the National Arts Academy (Akademi Seni Kebangsaan – ASK)
as it was then known, was established in 1994 o ering full-time stud-
ies in music, theatre, creative writing and dance, with core subjects in
traditional theatre including Wayang Kulit, Bangsawan and Makyung.
In attempting to meet the needs of the burgeoning industry, more disci-
plines have been incorporated into the curriculum. In 2002, lm and video
studies was implemented, and in 2008, ne arts and animation. In January
2008, ASWARA began its undergraduate degree programs and introduced
post graduate studies, as well as the Faculty of Arts and Cultural Manage-
ment in 2013. ASWARA also o ers Foundation in Creative Studies to students
who wish to dive into the various art forms that are taught in the institution.
Currently in its 27th year, ASWARA hopes to continue being a well-estab-
lished institution of higher learning that o ers top notch education to stu-
dents. Equipped with the slogan “MELANGKAH KE HADAPAN BERSAMA
TRADISI” (Moving Forward with Tradition), the institution is pulling out all
the stops to further enhance the quality of its education and its graduates.

MAIN ZAPIN ASWARA 2021
(ASEAN)

Main Zapin is one of the many programs organised by the Faculty of Dance AS-
WARA. This program, over the years, has been held ve times, namely: Main
Zapin 2010, Main Zapin 2013, Fiesta 2014 (Main Zapin), Main Zapin 2016, and
Main Zapin 2017. As the audience always looks forward to watching zapin danc-
es each year, ASWARA decided to stage Main Zapin 2021 (ASEAN) this year as
an online performance.
Main Zapin ASWARA 2021 (ASEAN) involves the participation of ve di erent
countries to highlight the zapin dance at the ASEAN level. Local and internation-
al institutions are involved in this production. With Malaysia as the host, Indo-
nesia, Brunei, Thailand and Singapore also play a big part in making this event a
success. Primary and secondary schools, several universities, as well as profes-
sional dance groups, have also shown their support for this event.
This Main Zapin production has three programs, which are:

i) Main Performance

The main presentation is the most important segment of the program. This per-
formance will be streamed on two days, 29th of October 2021, and on the last day,
which is the 31st of October 2021. International groups from Indonesia, Singapore,
Thailand, Brunei, as well as Malaysia, will perform in these performances.

ii) Langkah Bersama: Video, Discussion and History of Main Zapin
2010-2017

This video contains the sharing of experiences and thoughts by invited panelists
who have been involved as artistic directors, dance arrangers, dancers and re-
searchers in previous Main Zapin ASWARA events. The invited guests discuss their
respective topics such as main objectives, uniqueness, importance of zapin dance
in the syllabus at ASWARA, the art of zapin by the younger generation, importance

iii) Zapin: Then & Now (Webinar)

This webinar will have distinguished panelists discussing the development of zapin
in their respective countries and communities. This webinar will be on the second
day of the program, 30th October 2021.

HISTORY OF ZAPIN

Zapin or Japin is a form of dance accompanied by music and song, in the
culture of the village community. Zapin makes extensive use of footwork
arranged in phrases or sequences. In Malaysia in particular, zapin has
spread widely in the southern district of Sungai Muar, after Malacca was
colonised by the Portuguese in 1511. According to Bahar (2013: 277),
“Zapin Arab is a dance that lives in a community of Arab descent, while
Malay zapin is a zapin that exists in Malay cultural societies, not of Arab
descent in the archipelago.” Zapin Melayu was rst danced by the young-
er generation, during the time when the Malay Sultanate of Johor Lama,
and the Malay Sultanate of Johor-Riau-Lingga were ruling.
Alongside the e orts of Arab traders in spreading Islam in Malaya, they
also left the art of zapin in the areas visited. Zapin underwent a process
of acculturation with local culture, as found in Indonesia and Malaysia
(Indah Yuni, Pangestu Ediwar & Martion: 2012). Zapin is usually danced
as a recreational activity called “Main Zapin” in the community. The Ma-
lay community in Johor dances zapin as a casual activity, in suraus and in
mosques, so much so that it has become an attraction for young people
to gather at Al-Quran study houses (Zam Ismail and Zainal Abidin Borhan,
2008). Later, zapin began to be danced or performed more widely, at cer-
emonial occasions such as weddings and gatherings.
The origin of zapin in Malaya is largely associated with the in uence of
Arab traditions. However, this in uence has experienced change in ac-
cordance with Malay culture, especially in Johor. The Malay community of
Johor has arranged, and even created various new types of zapin, and this
development has created a di erence between the traditional Zapin Arab,
and the art of Malay zapin. The community has applied various elements
and characteristics of the Malay culture in the Malay zapin. In fact, songs,
speci cally for zapin, have also been composed according to the sensibil-
ity of the listeners, and the art of Malay music itself. Malay zapin music is
not the same as Arabic zapin music, also known as Samrah.

The state of Johor is a major catalyst state that promotes the culture and
art of dance and zapin songs in Malaysia. The state of Johor has brought
together more than 20,000 zapin practitioners from di erent age groups,
from the elderly to children. Zapin is very popular and has become syn-
onymous with the state of Johor, and has even become one of the im-
portant artistic heritages in the community. Prof. Dr. Mohd Anis Md Nor
is a researcher and academic who has contributed tremendously to the
revival of Malay zapin in Johor. The departments that have been given the
responsibility and trust by the Johor state government are the Johor Her-
itage Foundation (Yayasan Warisan Johor), and the Johor State National
Department of Culture and Arts (Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Neg-
ara). Yayasan Warisan Johor is an organization that preserves and upholds
culture and zapin.
The development of zapin in the state of Johor, has contributed greatly
to the artistic expression in Malaysia. Various types of Malay zapin such
as Zapin Tenglu, Zapin Bunian and Zapin Pekajang have spread to all states
in Malaysia. Zapin is no longer practiced by certain groups only, but has
also developed in educational institutions such as schools, universities,
as well as associations and government and private arts bodies. Zapin is
not only available in the state of Johor, but zapin dance is also available in
all the states. The Main Zapin performances at the National Academy of
Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) 2010 – 2017, featured zapin from
other states such as Zapin Sebat from Sarawak, Zapin Suara Siam from
Sabah, Zapin Perak from Perak, and Zapin Hanuman from Kelantan.

The Structure of Zapin
Zapin Melayu Johor usually starts with the gambus (lute) for taksim. The
dancers start in position, or they start by entering the performance space
and giving a sign of respect rst. After that, the dance starts with foot and
hand movements to the beat of the gendang (drum). These foot and hand
movements will be danced according to the phrases of each zapin. Among
the phrases or sequences found in zapin are pusau belanak besar, ragam lom-
pat injut, ragam kopak, ragam titi batang, ragam ayam patah, ragam pusau
belanak kecil and nally ragam wainab (Inda Flourylia: 2008).
The splendour of the Malay zapin with its beauty of movement, the beauty
of the accessories and props, as well as the symbolism of customs and re-
spect in its performance style, has made this dance special, not only in the
Malay cultural community, but also around the world. Zapin is often staged
for various ceremonies and festivals held locally and abroad. Despite this, the
development of zapin still needs attention, assistance, and support from var-
ious parties to ensure that the sustainability of zapin is always conserved and
preserved.
Prior to 1960, zapin was initially danced only by male dancers, but it has now
grown, and is also danced by female dancers or in pairs. Zapin steps are very
diverse, although in principle the basic movements of zapin are the same,
danced by people on the east and west coasts of Sumatra, Peninsular Ma-
laysia, Sarawak, Riau Islands, Kalimantan coast and Brunei Darussalam (Inda
Flourylia: 2008).
Among the phrases or sequences of Zapin Melayu Johor today are:

• Masuk Taksim atau Minta Jalan
• Duduk Sembah
• Ragam Asas (Alit)
• Ragam Sot’ (Sut’)
• Ragam Tapak atau Menapak
• Ragam Siku Keluang
t

• Ragam Pusau Belanak Besar
• Ragam Pusau Belanak Kecil
• Ragam Lompat Enjut
• Ragam Lompat Tiong
• Ragam Sendeng atau Lompat Sendeng
• Ragam Sisip
• Ragam Titi Batang
• Ragam Ayam Patah
• Ragam Anak Ayam Patah
• Ragam Kopak/Mengopak
• Ragam Surung Dayung
• Ragam Serimpat Perahu
• Ragam Selimpat atau Pecah Empat
• Ragam Selimpat atau Pecah Lapan
• Ragam Selimpat atau Pecah Dua Belas
• Wainab atau Waina Wailid atau Minta Tahto/Tahtim
Source: Latar Belakang Ringkas Tarian Zapin Johor, Nota Kursus
Bengkel Kejurulatihan Tari 2007 Yayasan Warisan Johor, oleh Profesor
Dr. Mohd Anis Md. Nor.
The preservation of a traditional heritage is crucial towards maintain-
ing the identity of a nation. The regional Malay culture must not be
allowed to disappear by external in uences that come with techno-
logical advances. The tradition will remain, as long as its heirs continue
to support and pass it on, from generation to generation, so that it
continues to grow both locally and abroad. Zapin Melayu should also
be nurtured well, so that it can contribute to the country’s creative in-
dustry. Cooperation from countries such as Indonesia, Singapore, Bru-
nei, and Thailand will certainly strengthen the relationship between
the countries, in developing and maintaining the existing art of zapin.

Prepared by: Zamzuriah Zahari, 2021

SCHEDULE MAIN ZAPIN ASWARA
2021 (ASEAN)



29 0CTOBER 2021 (FRIDAY)
MAIN PERFORMANCE - OPENING NIGHT

FACULTY OF DANCE, AKADEMI SENI BUDAYA DAN WARISAN
KEBANGSAAN, ASWARA (MALAYSIA)

Background:
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA) is the only institution of
higher learning in the eld of performance, that is currently being fully supported
by the Malaysian Government, under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. It
is an institution of higher learning that provides a space for learning, research and
academic publications, as well as professional advice in the eld of arts, culture and
heritage, that aims to produce skilled artists and competent craftsmen of their re-
spective elds, in addition to strengthening the continuity of the country’s culture
and heritage. The Faculty of Dance, ASWARA o ers courses in a variety of dance
techniques (traditional, modern and contemporary), from all over Malaysia, Asia and
the West. The main aim of the faculty is to produce professional, knowledgeable, as
well as high-caliber dancers, who are able to generate ideas when producing works.
Title: Bedana
Synopsis:
Bedana is a zapin dance which has been arranged and developed from existing se-
quences from the zapin dance. Bedana has lots of play with the footwork, oor pat-
terns, song, and tempo that creates a lively environment.

Arranged by: Mohd Seth Hamzah

Biography:

Mohd Seth Hamzah is an expert in traditional Malay dance especially zapin and now
serves as a full time lecturer at the Faculty of Dance, ASWARA. He served as a cho-
reographer at the Johor Heritage Foundation (Yayasan Warisan Johor), and Petronas
Performing Arts Group (Kumpulan Seni Persembahan Petronas). He is also involved
in the Persatuan Anak Pentas Malaysia (PENTAS) and was appointed for the National
Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS) as an expert panel member. Among the local
and overseas programs that he has participated in are the Dance Exchange Philip-
pines 2010, Asia Paci c International Dance Conference in 2011, Penari Menari UMS
2012, Akar Zapin in DBKL 2012, World Dance Day Surakarta Indonesia 2013, and
Festival Kesenian MAKSAK 2016. Besides Malay traditional dance works, Mohd Seth
Hamzah also creates contemporary works that have traditional dance elements such
as Belabas, Empat Lilin, Bubu Menari, Bubu Dah Tak Menari, Selesa Tak! Siapa!
Dancers:
Siti Nadhziehah Mohd Sukarno, Yap Serene, Kim Khoo, Nur Erisya Adleena
Noor Azwan, Nur Syahidah Hazmi, Nik Nur Amalin Nik Musauddin, Nurhanizah
Mohd Sedik, Low Xin Ping, Muhammad Nur Hilmi Rosli, Muhammad Shazwan
Mohd Soef, Aramy Rasyid Mohamed, Harries Mapan Anak Morris.
Music: Zapin Adik Abang
Songs and Lyrics: Zamzuriah Zahari
Composer: Syahrizan Sahamat
Singers: Nor Azura Abu Bakar & Azizul Haqim Anuwar.
Videographer: Kashfy Empire Sdn Bhd

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INDONESIA INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS OF YOGYAKARTA
B(IiNoDgrOaN:ESIA)
Raja Al ra ndra Raja Muhammad lahir di Kepulauan Riau yang kini
merupakan Pensyarah Jurusan Tari Fakultas Seni Pertunjukan Institut
Seni Indonesia Yogyakarta. Bidang kepakaran beliau adalah Tari Me-
layu, Komposisi Tari, Sejarah Tari dan Teori Budaya.
Penari:
Muhamad Arif, S.Sn., M. Oki Fatra, S.Sn., Catur Rama Febriant, S.Sn.,
Ujang Nia, S.Sn.

Penanggungjawab: Dr. Rina Martiara, M. Hum.

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Synopsis:
Zapin Pulau Penyengat is a dance composition with a Kain Lipat Empat Puluh Em-
pat that is de ned as the twists and turns of life, taboos, and wise e orts. Kain Lipat
Empat Puluh Empat is usually used to place dowry and gold in the Malay Wedding
Customs of the Riau Islands. This dance is danced by four princes as a symbol of
the lipatan empat, in accordance with the essence of the life of the people of Pulau
Penyengat Kepulauan Riau.

Brief history of Zapin Pulau Penyengat:
Zapin Pulau Penyengat was arranged by Raja Ahmad Raja Daud along with Mr. Ri n.
This dance is accompanied by instruments with a song from Muhammad Ali who
originates from Sambas and lived in Pulau Penyengat in 1919. This dance was passed
down from Raja Ahmad Raja Daud to his son Raja Mahmud Raja Ahmad who was
born in Pulau Penyengat in the year 1931. The arrangement of this dance begins
with sembah, langkah satu, langkah due, langkah tige, titi batang, ayak-ayak, ayam
sengkek, pusau belanak, and tahto. The sequences are not speci c and can be rear-
ranged according to the agreement between dancers and musicians.

JEMARI TARI, SK TAMAN MEGAH PETALING JAYA (MALAYSIA)

Arranged by: Drs. Raja Al ra ndra, M.Hum

Latar Belakang:
Jemari Tari, Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Megah Petaling Jaya, ialah
kumpulan tarian tradisional yang diasaskan oleh ibu bapa pelajar pada
tahun 2017 dan telah menjadi aktiviti kokurikulum rasmi yang disokong
oleh sekolah yang diuruskan dan dilatih oleh ChoreoArts Studio. Jemari
Tari merupakan kumpulan kanak-kanak atas didikan Kyrol MarkNann.
Bagi sebuah sekolah yang tidak pernah mempunyai kumpulan tarian
sejak 30 tahun yang lalu, kemunculan Jemari Tari sememangnya mem-
berikan nafas baharu kepada sekolah ini. Walaupun pada awalnya,
kmytBRfouiaauortajnemagtnghroApaeufslpuAandhrlnraataytungsn: ,nkcaYeitdonbrbpgaieeryrtoRraetgadrarkjrpepaaadamarMtkikakmu,s.ahaJeHseaibamim,stebemartxhesrapraeidueiTDnrwsatagiiraasniesdcdkbeeisainoFnrirngainicaM7muinnalhtelptyaihmnayoesgdpfuRgauPikanaenacur1yfneo2Ia,srDyilmtaalaaneinnhndbcgugsiehnalACen.drbodJtamiseh,irmspIinbno2adoesr0oirwitnpipToeaeenasnlnri,eagDiacaIrtjanuuilnasrgcte-iaer-
tHeilsatohrymaenndgChualtnutraarl Tlheeboihriedsa. ri satu pasukan untuk beberapa pertandingan
dan persembahan. Pasukan ini telah menyertai pelbagai pertandingan,
tempatan dan antarabangsa, serta memenangi beberapa piala, pingat
dbMDeaaubnnhceahermraaspad: daiaArharinwf, cSaa.nSnngg.,taMunn. TOakiV.i KFdauatrmna,pdSu.iSulnan.n,dCaJaentmugrauRrnaimtTuaakrFiembjuerimgaanbtt,ueSal.aSthnp.,teUarmjsaenpmgilbNdaiaih,an
dS.aSlna.m pelbagai majlis korporat serta perkahwinan. Hubungan rapat para
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Tajuk: Zapin Sebat

Sinopsis:
Zapin Sebat berasal dari Kampung Sebat, Daerah kecil Sematan, di
Lundu dan merupakan tarian Melayu Sarawak yang digarap dengan
satu bentuk koreogra yang mengekalkan asas-asas pergerakan langkah
seperti sembah mula, mula langkah, mula langkah pusing, langkah tiga,
gigit lembadak, dan berdayung. Zapin Sebat mempunyai sebelas ragam
pergerakan secara keseluruhan. Zapin Sebat mempunyai pergerakan
beralun yang terkawal seakan -akan mengikuti ombak laut yang tenang.

JEMARI TARI, SK TAMAN MEGAH PETALING JAYA
(MALAYSIA)

Background:
Jemari Tari, Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Megah Petaling Jaya, is a traditional
dance group founded by the parents of students in 2017, and has become an of-

cial co-curricular activity supported by the school, and managed and trained by
ChoreoArts Studio. Jemari Tari is a group of children under the tutelage of Kyrol
Marknann. For a school that has never had a dance group in the last 30 years,
the emergence of Jemari Tari has indeed given a new lease of life to this school.
Although initially the group had to compete with more experienced teams to
gain a foothold, Jemari Tari now consists of more than 20 highly dedicated danc-
ers, ranging in age from 7 to 12 years old. Jemari Tari has sent more than one
team for several competitions and shows. The team has participated in various
competitions, local and international, as well as won several trophies, medals and
cash prizes. The Jemari Tari group has also appeared on several TV shows, and
has been invited to perform at many corporate events and weddings. The close
relationship of the dancers, dedicated parents, and respected choreographers
makes Jemari Tari now one of the groups that SKTM teachers and students are
proud of.
Title: Zapin Sebat
Synopsis:
Zapin Sebat originates from Kampung Sebat, Sematan, sub-district in Lundu. It
is a Malay Sarawakian dance that uses basic movements such as sembah mula,
mula langkah, mula langkah pusing, langkah tiga, gigit lembadak, and berdayung.
Zapin Sebat has eleven sequences in total. Zapin Sebat has controlled, undulat-
ing movements like the calm lapping of the ocean waves. This dance is usually
performed on malam berinai before the majlis persandingan. Now, Zapin Sebat
is not only performed for wedding ceremonies, but also for o cial government
events and functions, as well as stage performances.

Arranged by: Kayrol MarkNann & Cyril Geo ry (Choreo Arts Studio)

Biography:
Kayrol MarkNann is the Artistic Director, and Cyril Geo ry is the Coach at
ChoreoArts Studio. ChoreoArts Studio is a professional performing arts com-
pany that provides services such as dance choreography, performing arts, art
training, art workshops and stage event management in traditional and contem-
porary genres. The company is a two-company joint venture between MarkNann
ChoreoLab Studio and PXL Services established in 2013. In 2019, the two com-
panies merged under ChoreoArts Studio, to educate and teach students in the

eld of performing arts. Their aim is to produce students with practical and theo-
retical skills, in an e ort to develop the creative arts industry in Malaysia.
Dancers:
Absyar Shukor, Raisha Shukor, Aisha Taufeq, Eihsan Razman.
Make up and Costume: Kayrol MarkNann
Videographer & Editor: Mamad Hj. Samsudin
Crew: Hidayat Rahman

SONGKHLA RAJABHAT UNIVERSITY DANCE GROUP
(THAILAND)

Background:
Songkhla Rajabhat University Dance Group was founded by lecturers and students
from the Performing Arts Department, Faculty of Fine Arts, Songkhla Rajabhat Uni-
versity. The purpose of the group is to preserve and inherit traditional Thai dance, and
so this group was formed in 2013. Since then, SKRU Dance Group continues creating
new zapin dance, as well as participating in competitions and festivals all over the
country, as well as abroad.
Title: Zapin Silatyalor
Synopsis:
The creation of Zapin Silatyalor was inspired by Silat, the Malay martial arts in Yala
Province. The creator chose 3 Silat poses and developed them to be zapin dance pos-
tures. The chosen Silat postures were Wai Kru or salutation pose, Tu Toh or Silat ‘chop-
ping’ movement and a hand-to-hand ghting pose. The dance is divided into 2 parts,

rst is the salutation, and second is the ghting part using Zapin Manurupadee song.
There are 3 couples of dancers who perform with traditional Malay costume.

Arranged by: Asst. Prof. Thatsaniya Kantacha

Biography:
Asst. Prof. Thatsaniya Kantacha is a lecturer at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Songkhla Ra-
jabhat University, a choreographer and a rongngeng dancer. She learnt rongngeng
and zapin dance from Chao Chantarachit and Korkiat Suktaranon, the Pattani Rong-
ngeng dance expert, in 2005.
Dancers:
Thiranan Thinchana, Phiradech Wichianrat, Thanakorn Suwanchatree, Tanidtha
Khongkaew, Wilailak Suksawa, Tanidtha Khongkaew.
Music: Zapin Hari Ribut
Music Director: Aphichat Kantacha
Musicians: Ussaleemala Group

SSEMJ DANCE STAR, MALAYSIA ARTS SCHOOL OF JOHOR
(MALAYSIA)

Background:
SSEMJ Dance Star is a dance group under Malaysia Arts School of Johor. The mem-
bers of this group include students in the eld of dance. Throughout the establish-
ment of this group, SSEMJ Dance Star has been involved in many competitions and
performances inside and outside the country. Among them are the International
Folklore Festival 2013-2019, Short and Sweet Dance Festival, Dance World Challenge,
Festival Tari Rakyat Johor and many more.
Title: Zapin Kasih Cahaya
Synopsis:
Zapin Kasih Cahaya is a form of zapin performance that was inspired by the song
Kasih Seterang Cahaya. Zapin Kasih Cahaya consists of two very famous forms of
zapin from Muar, Johor, which are Zapin Mahpom and Zapin Pat Lipat. This zapin
expresses the love and a ection between two human beings.
Kasihnya dinda kepada kanda rela bermudik hai dari makasar.

Arranged by: Mohd Fauzi Ahmad Selo (Gie)

Biography:
Mohd Fauzi Ahmad Selo, or better known as Gie, is from Muar, Johor. He is currently
working as the head of dance at Malaysia Arts School of Johor. With almost 20 years
of experience in traditional and contemporary dance and choreography, he has pro-
duced many traditional works and is very close to the arts in the state of Johor, name-
ly zapin and Ghazal Johor. He loves to explore with rhythm and song in interpreting
his dance creations. He is involved in many performances and competitions inside
and outside the country, such as, Dance World Cup 2019, World Dance Challenge
2020, Malaysian Dance Festival 2018 and many more. He is also active in dance-re-
lated writing, including form 4 and 5 dance textbooks for Malaysia Arts School. He is
currently pursuing his studies in UPSI.
Dancers:
Fazrizal Hudzuri, Muhamad Farif Marlias, Datu Sabri Datu Alawidin, Kana Anak
Jana, Nor Hidayah Hayon, Amelin So ya Anuar, Nor Syakira Raqiqah Solah, Nur
Adriana, Sa ya Mohammad Nazri.
Music: Zapin Kasih Seterang Cahaya
Composed from: Lagu Zapin Malam Pengantin
Costume: Decade Dance Company/ Ssemj Dance Star
Accessories: Natra Ezamila
Video Editor: Mamad Hj. Samsudin

KESENIAN SI ANAK TARI, TEMASEK POLYTECHNIC
(SINGAPORE)

Background:
The TP Malay Dance Group is also called Kesenian Si Anak Tari (Seni Nak Tari or SNT).
SNT takes pride in promoting the arts and providing high-quality traditional and
contemporary performances. Featuring both traditional and contemporary styles,
SNT’s movements are enhanced by their elaborate costumes and accessories, show-
casing the rich heritage of the various genres portrayed.
Title: Zapin Hayunan Kasih
Synopsis:
Zapin Hayunan Kasih focuses on various “hayunan” (swaying) techniques, which are
common across most folk Malay dances, and creatively adapts these movements to
innovate relevant movements for the female body. Zapin Hayunan Kasih is a new
creation choreographed by Soultari Amin Farid in 2012. The dance depicts the cama-
raderie between women and the strength in their solidarity.

Choreographed by: Dr. Muhd Noramin Mohd Farid (Soultari)

Biography:
Better known by his stage name, Soultari Amin Farid, Dr Muhd Noramin Farid was
trained in Malay dance with Perkumpulan Seni. He is a choreographer, arts educa-
tor and researcher based in Singapore. He is the Associate-Artistic Director of Bhu-
mi Collective, a multidisciplinary performing arts and producing company; and the
president of DIAN Dancers, a Malay dance youth group. He is a recipient of the ASE-
AN-India Youth Award (2018), Singapore Youth Award (2017), National Arts Council
Scholarship (2017) and Goh Chok Tong Mendaki Youth Promise Award (2016). He
holds a PhD in Theatre, Drama and Dance Studies from Royal Holloway, University of
London, UK.
Dancers:
Nur Shahidah Tull’ Radiah Azman, Nurul ‘Ain Balqis Adam, Saarah Ismail, Siti
Nuraisyah Roslan, Alya Irdina Salim.
Composer: Azrin Abdullah
Videographer: Md Al-Ha z Hosni

KUMPULAN KESENIAN UNIVERSITI MALAYA (KESUMA),
DANCE DEPARTMENT FACULTY OF CREATIVE ARTS,
UNIVERSITI MALAYA (MALAYSIA)

Background:
KESUMA was initially formed by a group of students at the University of Malaya
(UM) in 1971 to promote traditional Malay dances on campus. KESUMA em-
bodied repertoires of the National Cultural Complex (Kompleks Budaya Negara/
KBN) in the 1970s to the extent that every aspect of the performance such as
choreography, music, costumes, and accessories replicated the national dance
troupe. It became popular both nationally and internationally. With the incep-
tion of the dance department at the Cultural Centre (now known as Faculty of
Creative Arts) in UM in 2005, KESUMA was adopted as the traditional dance
ensemble under the Dance Department. Instructors and performers of KESUMA
comprise of lecturers, alumni, and students of the dance department. Over the
years, KESUMA has achieved artistic excellence in propagating traditional dance
performances in Malaysia.
Title: Zapin Dayung
Synopsis:
Hailing from Kg Bahagia, Ayer Hitam, Johor, this dance was created by Allahyar-
ham Haji Arshad Md. Isa, and has now been developed by Tuan Haji Muharam
Parlie. This zapin is inspired by the movements of someone rowing a boat. This
zapin has three main phrases and one ending phrase which is a unique style,
whereby there is a turning of the knees and hips of the dancers before sitting.
Another unique feature of Zapin Dayung is the movement of the legs that per-
form a rowing action and acah sangkut as well as the oor pattern, “S” or gure
of eight.

Gasing pangkah di balik payung
Akar diperdu silang berpaut
Kaki melangkah berZapin Dayung
Menghilang Rindu kasih berpaut
Arranged by: Mohd Hairil Anuar Bari

Biography:
Mohd Hairil Anuar Bari is the Cultural O cer at the Faculty of Creative Arts, University
of Malaya. He is also the instructor in the dance department, teaching Malay folk
dance and the KESUMA Ensemble. His is still commissioned as the dance coach for
Kumpulan Kesenian Universiti Malaya (KESUMA).
Dancers:
Ahmad ZulFaridzmi Zainuddin, Muhammad Shahril Aziz, Muhammad Azamuddin
Hajijul, Nadia Hazirah Nazren, Wong Yieng Zhu, Nina Qistina Badrul Hisham.
Music: Zapin Merindu
Music and Songs: Rojer Kajol ft. OMR - Senandung Rojer & Rakan-Rakan.
Videographer & Video Editing: Mohd Hairil Anuar Bari & Ahmad ZulFaridzmi
Zainuddin.

FACULTY OF DANCE, AKADEMI SENI BUDAYA DAN WARISAN
KEBANGSAAN, ASWARA (MALAYSIA)

Background:
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA) is the only institution of
higher learning in the eld of performance, that is currently being fully supported by
the Malaysian Government, under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. It is an in-
stitution of higher learning that provides a space for learning, research and academic
publications, as well as professional advice in the eld of arts, culture and heritage,
that aims to produce skilled artists and competent craftsmen of their respective elds,
in addition to strengthening the continuity of the country’s culture and heritage. The
Faculty of Dance, ASWARA o ers courses in a variety of dance techniques (traditional,
modern and contemporary), from all over Malaysia, Asia and the West. The main aim
of the faculty is to produce professional, knowledgeable, as well as high-caliber danc-
ers, who are able to generate ideas when producing works.
Title: Jepin Suara Siam
Synopsis:
According to Persatuan Tidong Tawau, Jepin Suara Siam is believed to have begun
around the early 1900s. During this era, Jepin Suara Siam had a main sequence or
phrase and was accompanied by two musical instruments as well as singing. In 2005,
the song “Jepin Suara Siam” was composed by Persatuan Tidong Tawau, and recorded
in the Canang Studio. The addition of eight instruments, as well as singing, gave new
life to the song. In 2008, there was an addition of several sequences to the dance by
the third generation of Persatuan Tidong Tawau, for the purpose of Festival Zapin
Nusantara 2008.

he addition of the sequences was at the opening and ending of the dance, as well as
six new phrases that were inspired by jumping, walking, acah and salam movements,
that are found in Jepin Arab Tawau that can be found in another dance, which is the
Jepin Arab Tawau from Sabah.
Arranged by: Al Jabar bin Laura

Biography:
A Malaysian professional choreographer, performer and teacher based in Kuala Lum-
pur, Jabar Laura started Sabah traditional folk-dance lessons at the age of 10. He
graduated from the National Academy of Arts, Culture, and Heritage (ASWARA) with
a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance with Honors (Choreography) in 2015. He obtained a
scholarship to complete his Bachelor’s program from Sime Darby Foundation and
ASWARA Dance Company. He was also awarded Best Male Actor of Nanning Interna-
tional Theater Festivals (2014), Best Male Dancer for Short & Sweet Dance Competi-
tion (2013). He produced Shifting Winds, a Mixed-Bill contemporary dance produc-
tion, and was selected as a participant in the Southeast Asian Choreolab in 2016. He
danced for Japanese choreographer Un Yamada in the Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur and Kota
Kinabalu productions of her work People without Seasons (2017-2019).
Dancers:
Wong Shan Tie, Siti Nadhziehah Sukarno, Yap Serene, Kim Khoo, Nur Erisya
Adleena Noor Azwan, Nur Syahidah Hazmi, Nik Nur Amalin Nik Musauddin,
Nurhanizah Mohd Sedik.
Dance Reference: Samsul Ismail (Traditional Performer of Jepin Suara Siam),
Mohd Azlan Rosli (Head Dancer of Persatuan Tidung Tawau).
Music/ Composer/ Musicians: Persatuan Tidung Tawau, Canang Studio & Lem-
baga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah Cawangan Tawau.
Costume: The Faculty of Dance, ASWARA, Hazlami Harun & Douglas Labadin.
Videographer/ Editor: Mohd Nuriqram Azhar, Yap Serene, Kim Khoo.

30 OCTOBER 2021 (SATURDAY) HISTORY OF
LANGKAH BERSAMA: VIDEO, DISCUSSION AND

MAIN ZAPIN 2010 – 2017

PANELISTS:
PROF. DR. JOSEPH GONZALES

Head of Academic Studies/ MFA
Dance Program Leader
The Hong Kong Academy for
Performing Arts,
Hong Kong

Professor Dr. Joseph Gonzales has been a professor at the Hong Kong
Academy for Performing Arts since 2016. He was former Dean of Dance
at the Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA), Ma-
laysia for 17 years. He is an award-winning choreographer and pro-
ducer in multiple genres of traditional, classical and contemporary
dance, theatre, music, and musicals. His quali cations include a PhD
and Bachelor of Science from University of Malaya, Master of Arts in
Choreography from Middlesex University, Teaching Diplomas in Ballet,
Modern Dance (RAD and ISTD) and Performing Arts (London Studio
Centre). He is an author, curator and producer of international and na-
tional productions, former Co-Chair Asian Dance Committee, Korea;
former President of MyDance Alliance and Vice-President of Southeast
Asia, and Founder and Artistic Director of ASK Dance Company.

MOHD SETH HAMZAH
Lecturer, The Faculty of Dance
Akademi Seni Budaya dan
Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

Mohd Seth Hamzah is an expert in traditional Malay dance especially
zapin and now serves as a full time lecturer at the Faculty of Dance,
ASWARA. He served as a choreographer at the Johor Heritage Foun-
dation (Yayasan Warisan Johor), and Petronas Performing Arts Group
(Kumpulan Seni Persembahan Petronas). He is also involved in the
Persatuan Anak Pentas Malaysia (PENTAS) and was appointed for the
National Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS) as an expert panel mem-
ber. Among the local and overseas programs that he has participated
in are the Dance Exchange Philippines 2010, Asia Paci c Internation-
al Dance Conference in 2011, Penari Menari UMS 2012, Akar Zapin in
DBKL 2012, World Dance Day Surakarta Indonesia 2013, and Festival
Kesenian MAKSAK 2016. Besides Malay traditional dance works, Mohd
Seth Hamzah also creates contemporary works that have traditional
dance elements such as Belabas, Empat Lilin, Bubu Menari, Bubu Dah
Tak Menari, Selesa Tak! and Siapa!

NORSAFINI JAFAR
Lecturer, The Faculty of Dance
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan
Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

Norsa ni Jafar is a Malay Classical dancer, choreographer and research-
er who holds a Diploma and Bachelor of Dance from ASWARA. She has
performed both locally and abroad, including in China, Vietnam, Swe-
den, and Singapore. As a choreographer, she has received numerous
awards including the New Dance Creation Champion for her work Se-
darah Seteru in the 2013 Dance Festival, and Outstanding Contribution
Award in Short & Sweet 2014, for her contemporary work Ratu. She has
also published articles from her study on Malay Joget Gamelan, and
presented her research at the International Conference of Culture and
Creativity in Taiwan in 2014. She was part of the expert panel for Dance,
which developed and reviewed the National Occupational Skills Stan-
dard (NOSS). She has been a full time lecturer at ASWARA’s Faculty of
Dance since 2011, and she is now completing her PhD studies at the
Faculty of Creative Arts, Universiti Malaya.

MOHD YUNUS ISMAIL
Lecturer, The Faculty of Dance
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan
Kebangsaan (ASWARA)

Mohd Yunus Ismail completed his Arangetram in March of 2011, under
the tutelage of the Temple of Fine Arts. He was awarded the BOH Cam-
eron Arts Award for the Most Promising Artist in 2009. He was involved
in Bharatanatyam productions by Mystic Creations entitled Adoration
of ... Ganga in 2011 and The Legend: The Journey Begins in 2009 with
Maya Dance Theatre in Singapore. In 2010, he took part in an exchange
program at the Kennedy Arts Center in New York and Philadelphia. He
was also one of the six nalists for the reality TV show So You Think You
Can Dance: Malaysia, Season 1. He was appointed as a choreographer
for the concert License to Thrill, a Bond Concert produced by Limelight
Entertainment that was held at Istana Budaya or also known as the
Palace of Culture in 2014. In 2015, he won the Best Choreographer in
a Mixed-Bill from the BOH Cameronian Arts Awards-12. He was also
awarded among ten dancers for the New Generation Malaysian Cul-
tural Dancers from RHA Media and is now a full time lecturer at the
Faculty of Dance, ASWARA.

30 OCTOBER 2021 (SATURDAY)
WEBINAR

ZAPIN: THEN & NOW
PANELISTS:
HAFZAN ZANNIE HAMZA
Lecturer, Faculty of Music and
Performing Arts, Sultan Idris
University Education (Malaysia)

Hafzan Zannie Hamza holds a Master of Arts degree (Performing Arts – Dance)
from the Dance Department, University of Malaya. He is trained in Malay tra-
ditional dance and Malay martial arts, and has performed in various dance
performances and workshops in Malaysia and abroad. His main research for
his doctorate study (2018 – ongoing) focuses on Malay folk dances – Malay
Ronggeng and dance of the maritime communities along the Malacca Straits
coastline. He has done extensive ethnographical research and published on
dances of the Sea Bajau (Bajau Laut) community in Sabah since 2006, and
more recently was the Production Editor for the 3rd Proceedings of the Sym-
posium (2015) of the International Council for Traditional Music (ICTM) Study
Group on Performing Arts of Southeast Asia (PASEA). He currently serves as
an editor for two renowned journals in performing arts: (1) Malaysian Music
Journal and (2) Jurai. In 2015 he served as external examiner for the Diploma
and Bachelor of Dance programs at the Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan
Kebangsaan (ASWARA). He is a recognized adjudicator for schools, universi-
ties, and national dance competitions. He is also one of the authors for two
dance textbooks for Malaysia Arts School Malaysia (Sekolah Seni Malaysia).
He also serves as a part-time lecturer at ASWARA (2018 – current) and has
taught Malay dance at the Dance Department, Cultural Centre, University of
Malaya (2013 –2016). He currently serves as a fulltime dance lecturer in the
Performing Arts Department, Faculty of Music and Performing Arts, Sultan
Idris Education University (UPSI).

DAYANG ATIKAH RUMAIZAH
DR. HAJI AWANG HARUN
Education O cer and The
Headmistress of Bengkurong
Primary School (Brunei)

Dayang Atikah Rumaizah Dr. Haji Awang Harun currently works as an
Education O cer as well as the headmistress of Bengkurong Primary
School, Cluster 4 in Brunei. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Primary
Education (English) from Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Institute of Educa-
tion (SHBIE), Universiti Brunei Darussalam. She was the head of the
group Pembela Hana Dancers in the Brunei December Festival in Belait
and Brunei Muara in 2017. In the same year, she led the delegation to
the International Youth Conference, Cultural Exchange and Camps in
Padang, West Sumatra Province, Indonesia. In 2018, she was one of
the panel presenters in conjunction with the Korean Youth Exchange
Program in Belait, Brunei Darussalam. She also led a group to Kulai
Jaya, Johor Darul Takzim, West Malaysia, to participate in a tradition-
al zapin dance course that was conducted by the Persatuan Penggiat
Zapin Johor.

DR. MUHD NORAMIN MOHD
FARID
Associate Artistic Director of
Bhumi Collective (Singapore)

Muhd Noramin Mohd Farid – or Soultari Amin Farid, as he’s better
known, trained in Malay dance with Perkumpulan Seni. He is a choreog-
rapher, arts educator and researcher and the Associate Artistic Director
of Bhumi Collective, a multidisciplinary performing arts and producing
company in Singapore. In addition, Amin is also the co-founder and
President of a 20-year-old Malay dance organisation, DIAN Dancers.
Amin is a recipient of the ASEAN-India Youth Award (2018), Singapore
Youth Award (2017), National Arts Council Scholarship (2017) and Goh
Chok Tong Mendaki Youth Promise Award (2016). He holds a PhD in
Theatre, Drama and Dance Studies, from Royal Holloway, University of
London, United Kingdom

DR. RINA MARTIARA, M. HUM
Lecturer, Institute of the Arts,
Yogyakarta (Indonesia)

Dr. Rina Martiara, M. Hum is a lecturer at the Indonesian Institute of the
Arts, Yogyakarta. She teaches Sumatran Dance, Dance Sociology and
Structural Dance Analysis. She nished her studies at the S1 level at the
Indonesian Institute of the Arts, Yogyakarta, the S2 level at the Universi-
tas Gadjahmada, Yogyakarta, and S3 at the Universitas Airlangga Sura-
baya. Among the articles that have been written by her are Cangget
sebagai Pendidikan Humaniora pada Masyarakat Lampung, Cangget
sebagai Pengesah Upacara Perkawinan pada Masyarakat Lampung,
Tari Gending Sriwijaya: Pemilihan sebuah Identitas Budaya, Citra Sri-
wijaya: Sebuah Perancangan Tari, Analisis Simbolik Kyrie Eleison Karya
Anna Wahyu Prasetyowati, Cangget sebagai Identitas Kultural pada
Masyarakat Lampung, Tari Gandrung Terob sebagai Identitas Kultural
Masyarakat Using Banyuwangi, Malay Dance: Expression on Maritime
Society.

DR. KAMARULZAMAN
MOHAMED KARIM
Lecturer, Faculty of Music and
Performing Arts, Sultan Idris
Education University (Malaysia)

Man Tabla is the stage name of Kamarulzaman Mohamed Karim,
a lecturer at Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI). Prior to re-
ceiving his formal music training, he was involved, from a very
young age, in the traditional Malay Ghazal from the State of Johor,
through his participation with Seri Melati Ghazal (which was found-
ed in the 1960s), under his father’s keen tutelage. Ghazal music has
been inspirational in advancing his studies in Music Composition.
He graduated with a Diploma in Music in 2002, and a Degree in
Music Composition in 2005, from Universiti Teknologi Mara, Se-
langor. He obtained his Masters in Music Composition from Insti-
tut Seni Indonesia (ISI), Yogyakarta, with his creation entitled Ratib
Rewind, in the period 2008-2010. In 2016, he obtained his PhD in
the same eld at Institut Seni Indonesia, Surakarta with his creation
GhaMuhyi. He is currently the President of Persatuan Ghazal Johor
Malaysia (GHAJMAS).

ASST. PROF. THATSANIYA KANTACHA
Lecturer, Songkhla Rajabhat
University ( ailand)

Assistant Professor atsaniya Kantacha ob-
tained her Master of Fine Arts ( ai Dance)
from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts,
Chulalongkorn University. She has received
numerous awards. Among them are:
-Tari Dikey Hulu, the First runner up prize from e Folk Music and
Dance Competition “Ruamsilp Pandin Siam” 2019 for Her Royal High-
ness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup, hosted by Department of
Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture;
-Zapin Zakapuzire, the First runner up prize from e Folk Music and
Dance Competition “Ruamsilp Pandin Siam” 2019 for Her Royal High-
ness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup hosted by Department of
Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture;
- e First runner up prize from FESTIVAL OF COLOURS OF THE
WORLD (FESCO 2019) in the International Folk Dance category at
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Malaysia;
- e Creative Rongngeng: Ma Inang Java, attending e Folk Music and
Dance Competition “Ruamsilp Pandin Siam” 2020 for Her Royal High-
ness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup hosted by Department of
Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture;
- e Creative Rongngeng: Jintasayang, attending e Folk Music and
Dance Competition “Ruamsilp Pandin Siam” 2020
-For Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup hosted
by Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture.

31 OCTOBER 2021 (SUNDAY)
MAIN PERFORMANCE - CLOSING NIGHT

FACULTY OF DANCE, AKADEMI SENI BUDAYA DAN WARISAN
KEBANGSAAN, ASWARA (MALAYSIA)

Background:
Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (ASWARA) is the only institution of
higher learning in the eld of performance, that is currently being fully supported
by the Malaysian Government, under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. It
is an institution of higher learning that provides a space for learning, research and
academic publications, as well as professional advice in the eld of arts, culture and
heritage, that aims to produce skilled artists and competent craftsmen of their re-
spective elds, in addition to strengthening the continuity of the country’s culture
and heritage. The Faculty of Dance, ASWARA o ers courses in a variety of dance
techniques (traditional, modern and contemporary), from all over Malaysia, Asia and
the West. The main aim of the faculty is to produce professional, knowledgeable, as
well as high-caliber dancers, who are able to generate ideas when producing works.
Title: Bedana
Synopsis:
Bedana is a zapin dance which has been arranged and developed from existing se-
quences from the zapin dance. Bedana has lots of play with the footwork, oor pat-
terns, song, and tempo that creates a lively environment.

Arranged by: Mohd Seth Hamzah

Biography:
Mohd Seth Hamzah is an expert in traditional Malay dance especially zapin and now
serves as a full time lecturer at the Faculty of Dance, ASWARA. He served as a cho-
reographer at the Johor Heritage Foundation (Yayasan Warisan Johor), and Petronas
Performing Arts Group (Kumpulan Seni Persembahan Petronas). He is also involved
in the Persatuan Anak Pentas Malaysia (PENTAS) and was appointed for the National
Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS) as an expert panel member. Among the local
and overseas programs that he has participated in are the Dance Exchange Philip-
pines 2010, Asia Paci c International Dance Conference in 2011, Penari Menari UMS
2012, Akar Zapin in DBKL 2012, World Dance Day Surakarta Indonesia 2013, and
Festival Kesenian MAKSAK 2016. Besides Malay traditional dance works, Mohd Seth
Hamzah also creates contemporary works that have traditional dance elements such
as Belabas, Empat Lilin, Bubu Menari, Bubu Dah Tak Menari, Selesa Tak! Siapa!
Dancers:
Siti Nadhziehah Mohd Sukarno, Yap Serene, Kim Khoo, Nur Erisya Adleena
Noor Azwan, Nur Syahidah Hazmi, Nik Nur Amalin Nik Musauddin, Nurhanizah
Mohd Sedik, Low Xin Ping, Muhammad Nur Hilmi Rosli, Muhammad Shazwan
Mohd Soef, Aramy Rasyid Mohamed, Harries Mapan Anak Morris.
Music: Zapin Adik Abang
Songs and Lyrics: Zamzuriah Zahari
Composer: Syahrizan Sahamat
Singers: Nor Azura Abu Bakar & Azizul Haqim Anuwar.
Videographer: Kashfy Empire Sdn Bhd

SANGGAR SENI ELANG PERKASA (INDONESIA)

Background:
The Elang Perkasa Art Studio is a traditional Malay dance group located in the city
of Batam, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia. We care and are deeply concerned about the
development of Malay dances in Batam Island, and would like to continue to improve
it for the young generation.
Title: Zapin Sayang Serawak
Synopsis:
Zapin Sayang Serawak is a traditional dance found in Riau. The title of this dance is
from the accompanying music, which is Sayang Serawak. This dance is usually per-
formed in pairs or groups of dancers. Starting o with salam and langkah biasa, this
dance features 11 sequences of di erent footwork.

Arranged by: Aziah

Biography:
Aziah is the head of Sanggar Seni Elang Perkasa Batam from 2005 until now. She was
born in Batam Island, Indonesia, and is now 43 years old. She was also a dancer in
Tari Nusantara 2011 and is an activist of Malay Traditional Dance of the Riau Islands.
Currently, she is a lecturer in Malay Ethnic Dance at the Universal University of Batam,
Indonesia.
Dancers:
Fatihah Melati Azhari, Intan Nadya Sari, Agnecia Grisselda, Wanda Azizah.
Videographer & Editor: Rudy Hartono S.Sn
Art Director: Maria Regita Marpaung S.Sn
Make Up and Accessories: Meisyawati

SRI WARISAN SOM SAID PERFORMING ARTS LTD
(SINGAPORE)

Background:
Sri Warisan, formed in 1997, is a performing arts company founded by a renowned
Cultural Medallion recipient, Madam Som Said. It is one of the pivotal forces in Sin-
gapore’s Malay dance scene. Blending rich traditional forms with contemporary tech-
niques is Sri Warisan’s trademark. Its performers are trained to excel in multi-disci-
plinary art forms such as dance, music, theatre and multimedia.
Currently, Sri Warisan is led by Adel Ahmad, together with 30 performing artists and
more than 200 student members who are committed to developing professional-
ism in the performing arts, reaching out to children, youth and adults. Every year,
Sri Warisan performs at more than 200 local events and 10 overseas festivals. Their
instructors conduct more than 3,000 courses and workshops at schools. Sri Warisan
recently conducted an intensive traditional Malay dance & music workshop for the
cast of the Musical LION KING (Singapore), at Marina Bay Sands in January 2011.
Since 1997, Sri Warisan’s activities include participating in more than 150 internation-
al events and festivals in Belgium, Brunei, Canada, China, France, Greece, Holland, In-
dia, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, England, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines,
Spain, Thailand, Turkey and United States of America.
Title: Zapin Telok Belangah
Synopsis:
Telok Belangah is a historical area in Singapore. Zapin Telok Belangah captures the
life in Telok Belangah which is harmonious. The young generation work together and
are respectful of each other. The dance phrases are based on the basic sequences of
Zapin Asyik such as ragam Alif, ragam bunga zapin such as beralih tempat, siku kel-
uang, ragam titi batang, and ombak mengalun which is varied with a special move-
ment arrangement. The essentials of zapin such as taksim, Alif, ragam asas, wainab
and penutup are preserved.

The oor pattern is based on the gentle and polite interaction between youth. Zapin
Telok Belangah was created especially for the performance of Sri Warisan Som Said
Performing Arts, at Bintan Zapin Festival in Tanjong Pinang, Indonesia. This debut
performance at the festival was well received and this dance went on to become
a part of the repertoire in every Sri Warisan performance, both locally and abroad.
Composer Zubir Abdullah remains at Sri Warisan and is responsible for producing
various commissioned, themed works produced by Som Said, as well as several other
choreographers in Sri Warisan.
Arranged by: Som Said

Biography:
Som Said received the Cultural Medallion award in 1987, and has been bringing Ma-
lay dance to an international audience since the 1970’s. She holds a degree in Dance
Anthropology from the Jakarta Institute of the Arts (IKJ) in Indonesia. In 1983, she
studied The study of Asian Performing Arts in contemporary dance creativity under
her Master, the late Bagong Kussudiardja (PSBK – 1983). In addition, Som Said was
awarded the study course on Labanotation in Solo (1989), Indonesia, and Nanyang
Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) Singapore (1990). She has also been recognised for
her work with the nation’s children, winning the National Youth Award in 1979. In
1992, she received her PBM, ‘Pingat Bakti Masyarakat’ Award from the President of
Singapore and in 2009, she won the most prestigious award in Singapore ‘Berita Ha-
rian Achiever of the Year’. With Som’s more than 50 years of successful experience in
promoting, producing and directing dance, Sri Warisan Som Said Performing Arts
Ltd seeks to continue to play an expanded role in the promotion of culture and arts
education, aiming to make arts accessible to all.
Dancers:
Syaiful Nizam, Rifdee Othman, Cameron Bruce, Syakir Fazalee, Faiz Ali, Isfarsha
Sakina, Zahidah Qurratuaini, Dina Nerina Hamzah, Izyan Mus roh, Iramaya Sophia
Hamzah.

PERSATUAN PENGGIAT ZAPIN NEGERI JOHOR (MALAYSIA)

Background:
Persatuan Penggiat Zapin Negeri Johor is a non-governmental organization estab-
lished in 2010 and is registered under the Jabatan Pendaftaran Pertubuhan Malay-
sia. They conduct activities especially for zapin, and this group consists of experts for
many forms of zapin and also their descendants. They preserve, conserve and keep
the originality of the forms of numerous zapin dances and give exposure, guidance
and reignition to the movements of Zapin Johor. Besides actively performing locally
and internationally such as in Singapore and Indonesia, they have collaborated with
numerous other bodies including the government, in upholding the integrity of the
dance form of zapin.
Title: Zapin Lapis Batu Putih
Synopsis:
Zapin Lapis Batu Putih developed in Kampung Parit Lapis Batu Putih, Batu Pahat,
Johor. It was created by Allahyarham Tuan Haji Jaafar Haji Aris and is now inherited
by Ahmad Nor Haji Jaafar. The movements of this zapin are in uenced from Zapin
Arab because Tuan Haji Jaafar learnt this dance from Sheikh Syed Hassan and sub-
sequently continued to develop it in Kampung Parit Lapis Batu Putih. This dance
has four types of steps and the speciality of this zapin is that it has “tengteng” move-
ments. This dance is usually performed during celebrations and big events. This zap-
in is adapted from the game “tengteng” which was a traditional childrens’ game in
the old days. This game tests the strength of one’s feet, as the player jumps around,
following the shapes drawn on the oor. The movements of Zapin Lapis Batu Putih
are extracted from the game from the beginning till the end.