Culture

Malaysian culture or Malaya culture is a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and various indigenous tribes dating back to more than fifteen hundred years ago from a Kedah kingdom in Lembah Bujang with traders from China and India. Other cultures in the past that influenced heavily on the culture of Malaya include the Persian, Arab and European.

Malay are Malaysia's largest ethnic group, accounting for over half the population and the national language. By definition of the Malaysian constitution, all Malays are Muslims.


Language
Malaysia's official language is Bahasa Malaysia, or Bahasa Melayu. English is, along with the Bahasa Melayu, the linking language between the various ethnic groups. Other everyday languages include Chinese dialects such as Cantonese, Hakka, or Hokkien.


Music & Dance
Malaysian music is heavily influenced by Chinese and Islamic forms. Music is based largely around the Gendang (drum), but includes percussion instruments some of which are made of shells, flutes, trumpets and gongs. Malaysia has a strong tradition of dance and drama, with Thai, Indian and Portuguese influences.






Culture Tours Reservation Form