Riau Islands is inhabited by Malay people who uphold their culture. Malay people are also known to be open and are welcome to various elements of outside cultures. They adapted the outside cultures that entered following the needs of Malay civilization. It is a part of the dynamic process of acculturation. Malay became the main pioneer of cultural acculturation and innovation processes.

One of the acculturation forms in Malay culture is strongly expressed through the Zapin dance. An art that combines Malay and Arab cultures. Zapin derived from the Arabic word “zafin”, meaning the fast movement of feet that follow the beat. The dance is performed in a group accompanied by music coming from two main instruments, qanbūs and a small gendang called marwas.

Zapin dance becomes evidence of the arrival of other nations to Nusantara. Initially, the dance was brought by the Arab merchants from Gujarat in the spice trade as well as a media of preaching to spread Islam religion in the area of Riau Islands. The dance then spread outside the area of Riau, in line with the development of Malay kingdoms. In its mingling with the local cultures, different variations in each region emerged, including Zapin Penyengat dance. However, the archetype is the same.

Zapin dance emerged in 1811, while Zapin Penyengat was popularized in 1919. Since its first emergence, the dance had become the symbol and meaning of respect and had been used as entertainment to serve the kings of Penyengat. At that time, only guys could perform the dance. Along with the time and the change of mindset, this dance eventually carried out a broad symbol and meaning. The dance is attached as a symbol and meaning of social life, education, Malay customs, and is not separated from the symbol and meaning related to the deity. Until today, the Zapin Penyengat is growing and its existence gets the public’s attention.

How is the movement and meaning as well as the brief history of Zapin Penyengat Dance? Find out the answers in the video below. Don’t miss it!