Booming with culture and tradition, it’s no surprise that Malaysia is regarded as one of the most diverse countries in the world. And while different ethnic groups carry their respective practices with pride, our brothers and sisters in East Malaysia are often underrepresented in just how unique their heritage really is.
A recent TikTok video has been making waves online after a user on the platform @p______ai captured a dance sequence carried out by Malaysian performers at IMAGO Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Referred to formally as Anggalang Mengunatip, the sequence consisted of multiple Sabahan performers dancing across bamboo poles.
Dressed in traditional Murut attire, the men could be seen carrying out impressive footwork while gracefully gliding across each pole, which were controlled by other performers who knelt on the floor. At certain points, the dancers also swiftly jumped over the bamboo.
Greeted by a roar of cheers after their performance, the crowd stood in awe and clapped loudly for the group.
After doing some sleuthing of our own, WORLD OF BUZZ discovered that Anggalang Magunatip is a traditional dance from Sabah which translates to ‘Bamboo Dance‘ in English. An energetic piece performed by those in the Murut culture, the performance consist of dancers moving their feet between bamboo poles placed on the ground without getting them trapped between the gaps.
Dancers often tease audiences by playfully shifting their feet creatively, and while the dance often begins slow, the rhythmic claps increase in tempo over time, with the bamboo movement operating faster as well. Usually, the dance is performed during special occasions and celebrations.
Receiving immense praise for their performance, many users, both internationally and locally, commented on how talented the dancers were, even complimenting the beauty of their traditional attire as well.
“So much hype! We need more Sarawak and Sabah representation in Semenanjung Malaysia,” wrote one user.
Watch the full TikTok video below:
Watch on TikTok
Carrying on this beautiful tradition, we salute people from the Murut culture for continuing to highlight this dance to the rest of the world.
Also read: M’sian Twin Dhol Drummers Play Melodic Song with Violinist & The Harmonies are Beautiful!
