Dharini A/P Devan Raj 54220122092 (BEME) CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE IN MALAYSIA 2 MPU 3342 MARRIAGE CULTURE IN MALAYSIA
Intoduction to Marriage Culture in Malaysia Malaysia’s marriage culture is rich and varied, influenced by the country’s many ethnic groups and religious customs. With Malay, Chinese, Indian and other indigenous tribes coexisting and contributing to the country’s cultural fabric, Malaysia is renowned for its multicultural society. Because of this, weddings in Malaysia frequently feature a blend of many customs, rituals, and clothing. In Malaysia, being married is seen as an important life milestone and is typically seen as a union between two families as well as two people. Parents and other elders frequesntly participate in the decision-making process when it comes to marriage because family values and traditions are so important. Introduction
Bertunang (Enagagement) The bertunang ceremony marks the formal engagement of the couple. It involves the exchange of gifts, including engagement rings, between the families. The coupls may exchange rings and wear them on their right hands. Berinai (Henna Ceremony) The berinai ceremony involves the application of henna paste on the bride’s hands and feet. It is usually held a few days before the wedding day and is accompanied by songs, music and dance performances. Merisik (Marriage Proposal) In the merisik ceremony, the grrom’s family formally visits the bride’s family to express their intention of marrying their daughter. This meeting allows the families to get to know each other and discuss various aspects of the wedding. Akad Nikah (Solemnization) The akad nikah is the Islamic marriage solemnization ceremony. It takes place at the mosque or a designated venue with the presence of a religious officer or an imam. During this ceremony, the couple, accompanied by their repective wali(guardians), sign the marriage contract, known as the “akad”. The bride’s wali gives consent for the marriage, and the couple expresses their acceptence of each other as husband and wife. Prayers and recitation of verses from the Quran are also part of the ceremony. Malay Wedding
Malay Wedding Bersanding (Sitting-in-State) The bersanding cereminy is the highlight of a Malay wedding. It usually takes place on the same day as the akad nikah or the following day. The bride and groom, dressed in traditional Malay attire, sit on a dais, known as the pelamin. Guests, family members, and friends take turns to bless the couple and have their photos taken with them. The bride’s and groom’s families often perform traditional Malay dances and songs during the bersanding. Makan Berdaai (Reconciliation Feast) After the bersanding, a feast is held to celebrate the marriage. It is an opportunity for both families to come together, share a meal and strengthen their bonds. Sanding Belaian (Bedroom Ritual) In some traditional Malay weddings, a symbolic ritual known as sanding belaian takes place after the feast. The couple is escorted to their bridal chamber, where they sit on a decorated bed. The couple’s family members and close friends take turns to shower them with flower petals and bless them with well wishes for a harmonious and prosperous married life.
Chinese Wedding Guo Da Li (Betrothal Ceremony) The Guo Da Li is a formal betrothal ceremony that takes place weeks or months before the wedding day. The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to present gifts, usually in pairs, symbolizing blessings and well-wishes for the couple. These gifts can include items like tea, fruits, cakes, jewelry and red packets with money. Dowry Negotiation As part of the betrothal ceremony, there is often a lighthearted negotiation between the bride’s family may ask the groom to complete tasks or answer riddles before accepting the dowry. This tradition is called “cheng men” or “door games”. Tea Ceremony The tea ceremony is a significant ritual in Chinese weddings, symbolizing the couple’s respect and gratitude to their elders. The couple serves tea to their parents, grandparents and other senior family members. In return, they receive blessings, words of wisdom, and ang pow containing money or jewelry. Wedding Banquet The wedding banquet, known as “hui li” or “xi fang jiu”, is a grand celebratory feast held on the wedding day. It is usually held in a restaurant or banquet hall and attend by family, friends and acquaintances. Multiple courses of sumptuous Chinese cuisine are served, and toasts are made to honor the newlyweds.
Chinese Wedding Bridal Attire The bride traditionally wears a vibrant red gown, known as a “qipao” or “cheongsam”, which is embroidered with intricate designs. In some cases, the bride may change into multiple outfits throughout the wedding day, including a white Western-style wedding dress. The groom typically wears a traditional Chinese attire called “ tangzhuang” or “changshan”. Weeding Games During the wedding banquet, playful games are often played between the bride and groom and their bridal party. These games are meant to test the couple’s teamwork and sense of humor. Challenges may include solving riddles, performing tasks or answering questions set by the bridesmaids or groomsmen. Wedding Decorations and Symbolism Red and gold are the dominant colors in Chinese wedding decorations as they symbolize luck, happiness and prosperity. Traditional symbols such as double happiness (shuang xi), dragons, phoenixes, and the Chinese character “xi” (meaning happiness) are often incorporated into the wedding decor and accessories. Lion Dance In some Chinese weddings, a lion dance performance may be included. The lion dance is believed to bring good luck, ward of evil spirits, and bless the couple with a prosperous future. The dancing lions are accompanied by lively music and firecrackers.
Indian Wedding Pre-Wedding Rituals Mehandi The mehandi ceremony involves the application of henna paste on the bride’s hands and feet, creating intricate patterns. Family members and friends also participate, and it is joyous occasion with singing and dancing. Sangeet The sangeet is a musical night where family and friends come together to celebrate the upcoming wedding. There are lively performances of traditional dances, singing and music. Ganesh Puja Before the wedding ceremonies begin, a Ganesh Puja is conducted. Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is worshipped to seek blessings and ensure a smooth wedding.
Indian Wedding Wedding Ceremony Kalyanam The main wedding ceremony is called Kalyanam. It takes place in the presence of a priest and is performed according to Vedic rituals. The bride and groom exchange garlands, take vows, and walk around the sacred fire (Agni) seven times, representing their marital commitment. Mangalsutra and Thali The groom ties a sacred necklace, known as Magalsutra or Thali, around the bride’s neck during the wedding ceremony. It symbolizes their marital bond and is an essential aspect of Indian weddings. Saptapadi The couple takes seven steps together around the sacred fire, known as saptapadi. With each step, they make promises to each other and seek blessings for a properous married life. Reception After the wedding ceremony, a reception is held to celebrate the union. It is a grand event where the newlyweds are introduced to the extend family, friends and community. There is feasting, cultural performances and congratulatory speeches.
Indian Wedding Attire The bride traditionally wears a vibrant and heavily embellished saree, usually in red or other auspicious colors. The groom typically wears a traditional Indian outfit such as a sherwani or a dhoti with a kurta. The attire is often adorned with intricate embroidery, jewelry adn accessories. Post-Wedding Ritual Vidai The Vidai ceremony takes place when the bride bids farewell to her family and leaves her parental home to start a new life with her husband. It is an emotional moment where the bride is accompanied by her family as she departs. Grihapravesh Upon arrival at the groom’s home, the couple is welcomed with blessings and rituals. The bride is considered the new mistress of the house, and she enters with a traditional ceremony known as Grihapravesh Food and Festivities Indian weddings in Malaysia are known for their elaborate and delicious food. A wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are served, representing the diverse Indian cuisines. Festivities include lively music, dance performances like the traditional Bharatanatyam or Bhangra, and often continue late into the night.
Iban Wedding Gawai Pengangkut Lemba (Delivery of the Bride’s Belongings) Before the wedding, the groom’s family visits the bride’s family to deliver the groom’s contribution known as “hantaran”. This contribution typically includes various items like betel leaves, sirih (betel nut), tobacco, and other traditional Iban items. Miring (Blessing Ceremony) The Miring ceremony is an essential part o weddings. It is a traditional blessing ceremony where offerings are made to the spirits and ancestors, seeking their blessings for a succesful and harmonious marriage. The ceremony is conducted by a ritual expert or “tuai rumah” and involves the recitation of prayerss, music and traditional dances Bedara Mata (Engagement) The engagement ceremony, known as “Bendara Mata”, takes place a few days before the wedding. During this ceremony, the couple exchanges gifts and rings as a symbol of their commitment to each other. Wedding Day Pengap(Gathering) On the wedding day, the bride’s family hosts a gathering at their longhouse or home. Family members, friends and community members come together to witness the union. Pengap Ngelulun (Bride’s Departure) The bride, accompanied by her family and relatives, leaves her home to join the groom’s family. This departure is marked by traditional songs, dances and prayers.
Iban Wedding Traditional Attire The bride typically wears a traditional Iban attire called “Ngepan Iban”. It includes a colorful woven skirt called “kain kebat”. a blouse known as “bliau”. and various accessories like silver belts, bracelets and necklaces. The groom wears traditional Iban attire, which may include a woven loincloth known as “kain pua”. Feasting and Celebrations Iban weddings are known for their festive atmosphere and communal feasting. Traditional Ibandishes like “pansoh”(bamboo-cooked chicken), “linut” (Iban-style orridge) and Traditional dances, music performances and games are also part of the celebrations.
Kadazan Wedding Magavau (Proposal) In the traditional Kadazan culture, the groom’s family initiates the marriage proposal by sending representatives to the bride’s family. They discuss the intention of marriage and megotiate various aspects, such as dowry and wedding arrangements. Pindik (Engagement) The engagement ceremony is known as “Pindik”. It involves the exchange of gifts between the families, symbolizing the formal commitment of the couple. The groom’s family presents gifts, including betel leaves, tobacco, sirih (betel nut) and traditional items to the bride’s family. Moginakan (Blessing Ceremony) The Moginakan ceremony is an important part of Kadazan weddings. It is a blessing ceremony conducted by a Bobohizan (a Kadazan shaman) or an elder, seeking blessings from the spirits and ancestors for the couple’s union. Traditional rituals, prayers and offerings are performed during the ceremony
Kadazan Wedding Wedding Day Majapahit (Fetching the Bride) On the wedding day, the groom’s family and relatives gather to go to the bride’s house for the “Majapahit” ceremony. They bring along traditional items and offerings, including rice, chicken and other symbolic objects. The groom’s family is welcomed by the bride’s family with traditional songs, dances and rituals. Mamahui Om Magang (Blessing the Couple) After the Majapahit ceremony, the couple receives blessings from their parents, elders and community members. Prayers are recited, and well-wishes are offered to the newlyweds. Traditional Attire The Kadazan bride usually wears a traditional attire called “sinuangga”, which consists of a hand-woven blouse and a pleated skirt made from woven fabric. She also wears traditional accessories like beaded necklaces, headgear and bangles. The groom typically wears a traditional Kadazan outfit, which includes a traditional shirt and trousers. Traditional Food and Festivities Kadazan weddings are known for their traditional food and joyful celebrations. Traditional dishes such as hinava (marinated raw fish), bambangan (fermented wild mango) and pinasakan (braised fish) are prepared and shared among the guests. Cultural performances, traditional dances, music and games are part of the festivities
Conclusion Marriage culture in Malaysia reflects the importance of family, community and the preservation of cultural identity. Weddings serve as occasions for joyous celebrations, the strengthening of social bonds and the passing down of traditions from one generation to the next. While this provides general overview, it’s important to note that marriage customs and traditions can vary even within these ethnic groups and individuals may choose to incorporate modern elements or adapt practices to their personal preferences. The beauty of Malaysia’s marriage culture lies in its diversity, offering a rich tapestry of traditions that make each wedding a unique and memorable experience.
THANK YOU