Makyung: the mystical heritage of Malaysia

Conferred the Masterpiece of the Oral & Intangible Heritage of Humanity award in 2005 by UNESCO, Malaysia’s Makyung is a veritable feast for the senses. A traditional dance theatre offering a sensory mosaic of gestures, singing, music and dancing, Makyung is a living inheritance that is without doubt experiencing a revival as it enchants audiences worldwide. From the narrative gift to the verbal wit of its actors, a Makyung performance constantly evolves. Although there is no script, the improvisations enthrall audiences to return for more. Rahimidin Zahari, a renowned writer, poet and acclaimed puppeteer of the traditional art of Shadow Play (Wayang Kulit), for the first time compiles in this book a walk-through of this intricate performance enabling readers the opportunity to glimpse into a beautiful yet mystical ancient theatre that is carving a niche in today’s contemporary arts scene. Sutung Omar RS, or as he is popularly known, Wan Omar, is a respected poet, novelist and short-story writer. To date amongst his published works are three volumes of an anthology of poems for children and various literary reviews. He is a Malaysian laureate who is passionate about the preservation of Malaysian performing arts.