TRADITIONAL ART OF ZAPIN

ZAPIN.It is believed that Muslim missionaries of the Middle East namely Persia and Arabia introduced the dance to Malaya during the fifteenth century.
The dance was originally performed by males only however it is also performed by female dancers these days.
The simple versiountn of the Zapin is performed to the rhythmThe music for Zapin comes from an ensemble of traditional instruments which include the lute (gambus), gypsy-type bongos (marwas) and the violin.
There are no hard and fast rules as to the number of dancers that perform. However because of the very interactive nature of this dance, it is usually performed in pairs.
The dancers can then play with each other, challenging and enjoying each others company. It is most popular in Johor.
There are numerous forms of Zapin dances and it varies from state to state. One of the most popular forms and certainly more evolved and intricate is the Zapin Tenglu from the town of Mersing. Said to be inspired by the ebb and flow of the tide and the lives of fishermen, the dance has many unexpected movements .
Another popular Zapin dance is the Zapin Pekajang
ZAPIN SINDANG
This dance from the Zapin family from the Sindang Village , Kucing, the capital of Sarawak. Believed to have assisted in the spreading of Islam in Borneo this dance never see the couples actually touch and their flirtatiousness in largely in the sideways glances and looks they give one another.
The dance became so popular that the dance has been accepted by the people of Sarawak and is danced regularly. Using music in the Zapin flavour, the dance has only a few patterns and sequences.