Lastly, the diversity of Malaysians can be seen through dance.

Here in

Malaysia, we are proud to be a nation of diverse ethnicity blessed with

a wealth of unique dance styles. The dances of Malaysia are splendid

and awe strikingly expressive. With colourful costumes, graceful

posture, and mesmerising music, all dances have a story to tell.

Zapin is one of the most popular dance and musical forms in traditional

Malay performing arts. It is believed to have been introduced by

Persian and Arab Muslim missionaries from the Middle East to Malay

Archipelago around the fourteenth century. The dancers usually

perform in pairs. Dance movements are choreographed to melodies

which are performed using musical instruments such as the gambus,

accordion and rebana.

Lion dance is a form of traditional dance in Chinese culture. The lion

dance is usually performed during the Chinese New Year and other

occasions such as business opening events, special celebrations or

wedding ceremonies. It is normally operated by two dancers, one of

whom manipulates the head while the other forms the rear end of the

lion. The performers mimic a lion's movements in a lion costume to

bring good luck and fortune.

Bharatanatyam is one of the most popular Indian classical dances. It is

an artistic yoga that involves the movement of the body parts in a very

artistic and elegant manner. The dance is accompanied by music and a

singer, and typically the dancer's guru is present as the Nattuvanar,

director, and conductor of the performance and art. The style of

dressing of a Bharatanatyam dancer is more or less similar to a Tamil

Hindu bride.

Ngajat is a popular dance among the Iban people in Sarawak. The

Ngajat dance is believed to have been performed by warriors on their

return from battles. Now, it is performed to celebrate the most

important harvest festival called ‘Gawai’ and to welcome important

guests to the longhouses. The dancers make slow movements, as though

stalking the enemy.

Sumazau is a traditional folk dance of the Kadazan Dusun. It is often

performed during the harvest festival celebration every May. Sumazau

is performed in traditional black and red clothing. It is inspired by the

flying patterns of the eagles that were observed by the farmers

during harvesting. While dancing, the dancers raise both hands to

shoulder level and holding hands like bird wings, as the tempo tunes

played slowly and gently.