ICC 411  Crafted with oil-coated silk paper and

SINGAPORE bamboo frames.

Overview/Introduction Chinese Seals:

TRADITIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS
 Originating in the Han Dynasty as symbols of
Singapore's Identity: Known as the "Lion authority.
City," Singapore is a global economic hub with a  Requires precision due to the small size of
multicultural heritage. Key cultural groups engravings.
include Chinese, Malays, Indians, and  Often purchased as personalized keepsakes.
Eurasians, enriched by foreign influences over
time. Songket:

Cultural Diversity: The strong Singaporean  A hand-woven textile with gold/silver threads
identity binds its multicultural communities. on silk or cotton.
Foreign customs further enhance the cultural  Produces a shimmering effect through
tapestry. supplemental weft weaving.

Historical Insights: Originally a pirate and fishing Batik:

outpost tied to the Srīvijaya Empire, Singapore
evolved under various influences:  Fabric art involving wax and dye resist
techniques.
Names: Temasek (from Javanese “tasek” for  Name derived from Javanese words:
sea) and Singapura (“Lion City”). “Amba” (to write) and
“Titik” (dot).
Srīvijayan Prince Sri Tri Buana: Credited with
naming the city after mistaking a tiger for a lion. Notable Artworks

Traditional Arts and Life by the River (Liu Kang): Depicts vibrant
riverine life, highlighting Singapore’s cultural
Crafts of Singapore history through lively brushstrokes and colors.

National Language Class (Chua Mia Tee):

Key Art Forms and Crafts Represents Singapore’s multicultural society and
dedication to preserving its diverse heritage.
Nyonya Kebaya:
Salient Terms
 Traditional Peranakan women’s attire: a
sarong (long skirt) paired with a kebaya Temasek & Singapura: Historical names
(long-sleeved blouse). reflecting Singapore’s evolution.
 Incorporates Arabic, Chinese, and Indonesian
influences. Peranakan: Cultural blend of Chinese and Malay
 Custom designs available at Shophouse traditions.
Rumah Kim Choo.
Songket & Batik: Traditional textiles
Peranakan Beadwork: showcasing craftsmanship.
 Themes: Animals, mythology, and flowers. Teochew & Fuzhou Lanterns: Unique styles of
 A test of patience and attention, reflecting lantern-making.
qualities valued in traditional matchmaking.
 Rare and expensive; workshops like Rumah Say Tian Hng: Iconic effigy-making workshop.
Bebe offer DIY beaded shoe crafting.

Effigies:

 Used in Buddhist and Taoist worship.

 Depicts historical figures and gods.
 Say Tian Hng (since 1896): Singapore’s sole
Taoist effigy-making workshop.

Lanterns:

 Two types:
Teochew (crisscross bamboo splints) and
Fuzhou (parallel bamboo splints).
SINGAPORE
Overview/Introduction
FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS SINGAPORE
Overview/Introduction
Pongal (Jan 14-17) - A Tamil harvest festival to MUSIC, DANCE and CUISINE
thank the sun god Surya.
 Highlight: Celebrations in Little India with Lion Dance
events, competitions, and gift exchanges.  Origin: Chinese-inspired
 Purpose: Celebrated during New Year’s and
Chinese New Year (Feb 10, 2024) - A 14-day other cultural events to bring luck and
celebration beginning on the new moon day. fortune.
 Highlight: Lion and dragon dances, red and  Features: Two lead dancers operate a lion
gold decorations, and Hong Bao (red costume with a tail.
envelopes) for kids.
Zapin Singapura
Thaipusam (Jan 25) - Devotees honor vows by  Origin: Middle East, adapted in Singapore in
carrying Kavadis or pots of milk. 1973.
 Highlight: Procession between Sri Srinivasa  Significance: Malay National Dance, started
Perumal Temple and Sri Thendayuthapani as a religious performance.
Temple.  Features: Performed in pairs with
instruments like guitar, rebab, accordion, and
Lantern Festival (Feb 24) - Marks the last day Marwas.
of Chinese New Year.
 Highlight: Paper lanterns lit and released into Peranakan Dance
the sky.  Origin: Malay and Peranakan communities.
 Significance: Performed at formal occasions
Vesak Day (May 22) - Celebrates Buddha’s (e.g., birthdays, weddings).
enlightenment and death.  Features: Poetic dance using Peranakan
 Highlight: Meditation, charity work, and self- beaded slippers, Malaysian batik sarongs,
reflection. and musical instruments like tambourine and
violin.
Dragon Boat Festival (Late May to early
June) - Features dragon boat races and rice Bharatanatyam
dumpling feasts.  Origin: Ancient Indian classical dance.
 Highlight: Races at Bedok Reservoir.  Features: Expressive storytelling with hand
gestures, facial expressions, and nrittas
Hari Raya Puasa (Apr 10) - Celebrates the end (rhythmic movements).
of Ramadan.  Costume: Saree with heavy jewelry and
 Highlight: Visits to mosques and family Gajra flowers.
graves, with oil lamps symbolizing renewal.
Kathak
Singapore National Day (Aug 9) - Celebrated  Origin: Indian classical dance.
with parades, dances, and national pride.  Features: Storytelling through facial
 Highlight: Choreographed performances and expressions, footwork, and body language.
patriotism.  Instruments: Harmonium, cymbal, tabla.

Deepavali (Diwali) (Oct 31) - Celebrates the Ballet

return of Lord Rama and the triumph of good  Origin: Western classical dance.
over evil.  Features: Influenced by Russian and French
 Highlight: Little India’s lights and fireworks styles, with mime, footwork, and leg turns.
displays.  Promoted by: Singapore Dance Theatre
(founded 1998).
Hungry Ghost Festival (Late Aug to early
Sep) - Taoist and Buddhist festival honoring the Musical Instruments
deceased.
 Highlight: Offerings, live performances, and Chinese Guzheng: A plucked string instrument
tents for entertainment. with a pentatonic scale, made of Paulownia wood.

Kulintang: A set of horizontally laid gongs

(idiophone).

Kompang: A circular percussion instrument

played at weddings (membranophone).
Rebana: Drum used to notify worship times Merlion Park
(membranophone).  Symbol: Merlion statue (lion head, fish body).
 Scenic waterfront location.
Taphon: Barrel-shaped drum played with hands
(membranophone).

CUISINE AND GASTRONOMY

Gardens by the Bay
Hainanese Chicken Rice - Steamed chicken  Attractions: Supertree Grove (vertical
with rice cooked in chicken stock. gardens), Flower Dome, Cloud Forest.
 Highlights: Fusion of nature and futuristic
Chili Crab - Hard-shell crabs in a tomato-chili design.
sauce with eggs.
Singapore Flyer
Laksa - Spicy coconut curry soup with rice  One of the world’s largest observation
noodles, shrimp, and fish cakes. wheels.
 Offers spectacular city and Marina Bay views.
Char Kuay Teow - Broad noodles fried with
black soy sauce, bean sprouts, and Chinese Sultan Mosque
sausage.  Known for: Golden dome, intricate design.
 Significance: Important cultural and religious
Hokkien Prawn Mee - Stir-fried noodles with landmark.
prawns, pork, squid, and fish cake.
Raffles Hotel
Barbecued Stingray - Stingray marinated in  A colonial-era luxury hotel.
sambal sauce, wrapped in banana leaves, and  Symbol of elegance and historical charm.
grilled.
Thian Hock Keng Temple
Fish Head Curry - Large fish head cooked in  One of Singapore’s oldest Hokkien temples.
curry, served with bread or rice.  Renowned for its ornate Chinese architecture
and artistry.
Satay - Grilled pork skewers served with peanut
sauce and ketupat (rice cake). Museums
National Museum of Singapore
Char Siew Meats on Rice or Noodles -
Roasted pork belly with a thick sauce. Singapore’s oldest museum.
 Features: Artifacts, interactive exhibits on
Oyster Omelette - Egg omelette fried with history and heritage.
oysters and bean sprouts.
Asian Civilizations Museum
Bak Kut Teh and Rice - Pork rib soup with  Focus: Diverse Asian cultures that shaped
Chinese herbs, seasoned with soy sauce. Singapore.
 Collection: Artifacts from across Asia.
Kaya Toast - Toasted bread with coconut egg
jam. Peranakan Museum
 Dedicated to Peranakan (Straits Chinese)
Nasi Lemak - Coconut rice with anchovies, culture.
cucumber, omelette, and chili paste.  Highlights: Art, clothing, and restored
heritage building.
Roti Prata and Teh Tarik - Indian flatbread
with lentil curry; tea mixed with carnation milk Singapore Art Museum
and poured to create foam.  Focus: Contemporary Southeast Asian art.
 Collection: Paintings, sculptures, multimedia
installations.
SINGAPORE Singapore Philatelic Museum
Overview/Introduction  Dedicated to stamp collecting and its history.
ARCHITECTURE, MONUMENTS AND  Features: Interactive displays and philatelic
MUSUEMS exhibits.

Marina Bay Sands Chinatown Heritage Centre

 Three skyscrapers with a boat-shaped  Location: Well-preserved shop houses.
skydeck.  Purpose: Insight into Chinatown’s history and
 Features: Iconic rooftop pool, panoramic architecture.
views of Singapore.
ICC 411 Dialects

INDONESIA Languages: Over 700 languages, mostly

Overview/Introduction Austronesian.
TRADITIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS Indonesian: De facto official language.

Overview Widely Spoken:

 Indonesia: World’s largest archipelago.  Javanese: Dominant on Java Island.

 Main Islands: Five main islands and roughly  Sundanese: Spoken in West Java and
thirty smaller groups. Banten (42 million speakers).
 Geography: Situated at the border of two
continents (• Asia and Australia/Oceania) and Currency
two oceans (• Pacific Ocean and Indian
Ocean). Rupiah (Rp): Official currency (code: IDR).

 Independence: Gained independence from  Derived from the Sanskrit word "rupyakam"
the Netherlands in 1949. (silver).
 Informally referred to as "perak" (silver).
 Capital: Jakarta (on the island of Java;  Introduced in 1946 during the independence
population: 10 million). fight.
 Major Cities: Bandung, Medan, Surabaya.  Subdivided into 100 cents (sen) (no longer
used due to inflation).
Language and Religion
Key Highlights
Official Language: Indonesian (Bahasa
Indonesia). Geographical Importance: Crossroads of
continents and oceans.
Main Religion: Islam (almost 87% of the
population are Muslims; majority are Sunnis). Cultural Heritage: Influences from Hinduism,
Buddhism, Islam, and colonialism.
Recognized Religions: Islam, Protestantism,
Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism. Demographics: Highly diverse population with
significant ethnic and linguistic variety.
Jakarta: Capital City
 Located on the northwest coast of Java. Religion: Predominantly Muslim but recognizes
 Lies at the mouth of the Ciliwung River on multiple faiths.
Jakarta Bay.
 Major center for trade and finance. Economic Center: Jakarta as a financial and
trade hub.
History
Currency History: Symbol of post-independence
 Influenced by Indian culture (brought national identity.
Hinduism and Buddhism).
 13th–16th Centuries: Gradual embrace of
Islam.
 17th Century: Colonized by the Dutch.
 1942-1945: Occupied by Imperial Japan.
 1945: Declaration of independence.
 1949: Officially recognized as independent.

Population

 Population (2021): Over 271 million.

 Multi-ethnic with 1,300+ ethnic groups.

Largest Ethnic Groups:

Javanese (40%).
Sundanese (16%).
Batak (4%).
Sulawesi (3%).
Madurese (3%).
Betawi (3%).
ICC 411

INDONESIA Weaponry: Kris

Overview/Introduction Kris:
TRADITIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS  Asymmetrical dagger with distinctive blade
patterns.
Kamasan Wayang Style Painting  Symbol of power and ethnic pride.
 Kamasan Shadow Puppet Painting:  Used as a status symbol and weapon.
 Originates from ancient Java.
 2-dimensional painting depicting shadow Pottery
puppet performances.  Kasongan Terracotta (Yogyakarta):
 Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB) (2015).  Known for earthenware, vases, jars, and
 Proposed to UNESCO in 2018 and 2022. figurines.
 Buni Culture (400 BCE): Developed pottery in
Bull Painting West Java.

 Lubang Jeriji Saléh Cave: Artefacts: Food containers, burial gifts.

 One of the oldest figurative paintings in the  Majapahit Terracotta Art (13th–15th
world. Century):
 Depiction of a bull, dated to be 40,000 years  Discovered in Trowulan, East Java.
old.  Includes figurines, Gajah Mada head, piggy
banks, kendi water containers, bas reliefs,
Naga Symbolism and architectural ornaments.
 Rich in symbolism:  Low-fired objects; no kilns found.
 Naga/Dragon: Mythical creature.
 Mamuli Pendant: Symbol of fertility (Sumba).
 Tree of Life and Garuda (national symbol on
Panca Sila). ICC 411

Batik Design: Motifs INDONESIA

Overview/Introduction
Broken Keris: FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS
 Restricted to royal families (Surakarta and
Yogyakarta).
 Traditional colors: navy blue, cream, brown,
black.
Indonesia’s Major Cultural
Festivals and Celebrations
Mega Mendung:
 Invented by a Pajajaran King. 1. Pasola (Sumba)
 Symbolizes staying calm and being a
protective leader.
 What: Ritual horseback battle with
spears.
Singa Barong:
 When: February and March.
 Mythological animal (tiger, dragon, garuda,
 Significance: Animist ritual to appease
elephant).
ancient gods.
 Symbolizes toughness and strength.
 Unique Aspect: Warriors wear traditional
ikat clothing.
Galuh Pakuan:
 Inspired by the Galuh Kingdom (Pajajaran).
 Features minimalist patterns and thick 2. Lake Toba Festival (North
colors. Sumatra)
Merak Ngibing:  What: Music, arts, crafts, and traditional
 West Java motif. sports.
 Depicts dancing peacocks, symbolizing grace  When: September.
and beauty.  Highlights:
Kujang Kijang:
o Decorated Floats Parade, Dragon
 Inspired by Sundanese kujang weapon and
Boat Competition.
kijang deer.
o Traditional dances: Tor-tor Tumba,
 Represents security and protection.
4 Puak Colossal Dance.
o Tourism exhibitions and beauty
pageant.
3. Djakarta Warehouse Project 9. Waisak
(Jakarta)
 What: Buddhist celebration of Buddha’s
 What: Southeast Asia’s largest electronic birth.
dance music festival.  When: Full moon in May or June.
 When: December.  Main Venue: Borobudur Temple (world’s
 Famous Artists: DJ Snake, Major Lazer, largest Buddhist temple).
Tiesto, Alan Walker.  Significance: Public holiday in Indonesia.
 Audience: 75,000+ international
attendees.

4. Dieng Culture Festival (Java) 10. Baliem Valley Festival (Papua)

 What: Ritual haircutting of children with  What: Ritual for prosperity and fertility
natural dreadlocks (anak bajang). blessings.
 When: August.  When: August (date varies).
 Activities: Processions, prayers at sacred  Activities: Mock tribal battles between
sites, cultural ceremonies. local groups.
 Belief: Dreadlocks signify prosperity.
ICC 411
5. Erau Culture Festival
(Kalimantan)
INDONESIA
Overview/Introduction
MUSIC, DANCE AND CUISINE
 What: Celebration of Kutai culture.
 When: Originates from the 14th century. MUSIC
 Unique Features: Joyful festivities Traditional Music Forms and Genres
lasting 40 days and nights. Gamelan/Tembang Sunda
 Activities: Land, river, and shore events.
Sung poetry; popular in western Java.
6. Solo Batik Carnival (Central Java) Accompanied by instruments like rebab, suling,
and kacapi indung.
 What: Parade showcasing extravagant
batik designs. Dangdut
 When: July.
 Significance: Solo as Java's cultural  Indonesia’s pop genre; influenced by
heartland. Hindustani and Arabic music.
 Key Attraction: Dance and street  Inspired by Western rock and Malaysian film
performances. music.

Keroncong
7. Nyepi (Bali)
 Based on Islamic poetry (Qasidah).
 What: Day of Silence celebrating Saka  Pop Qasidah targets modern moral values.
New Year.  Famous all-women group: Nasida Ria.
 When: March.
 Activities: Campursari

o Before: Melasti pilgrimages and  Mix of Indonesian traditional and Western

processions. genres like rock, soul, and hip-hop.
o During: A day of complete silence
and inactivity. Popular Contemporary Forms
Tembang Sunda
8. Bau Nyale Fishing Festival  Initially private; now public performances
with vocal and instrumental segments.
(Lombok)
DANCE
 What: Honors a Sasak princess through Traditional Dance Forms and Genres
fish-catching rituals.
 When: Late February or early March (date Saman Dance (Aceh)
varies).
 Cultural Insight: Unique Sasak  Values: wisdom, heroism, togetherness.
traditions.
 Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage Overview/Introduction
(2011). ARCHITECTURE, MONUMENTS AND
MUSUEMS
Tor-Tor Dance (North Sumatra)
Types:
Pangurason: Cleansing rituals. Significant Monuments and Architecture
Sipitu Cawan: Seven Bowls dance.
Tunggal Panaluan: Performed during disasters. Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
Serimpi Dance (Yogyakarta)  Hindu Shaivite temple in Bali, located on
 Courtly elegance; accompanied by gamelan Lake Beratan in Bedugul.
music.  Dedicated to Dewi Danu, goddess of water.
Kecak Dance (Bali)  Known for its lakeside setting and cultural
 "Ramayana monkey chant"; involves up to significance.
150 dancers chanting in unison.

Caci Dance (Flores)

Lawang Sewu Building
 A one-on-one whip fight.
 Traditional warrior costumes.  Built in 1904-1907 in Semarang, Central Java.
 Poco-Poco Dance (Maluku)  Former Dutch East Indies Railway Company
 Mass exercise dance, combining modern and headquarters.
traditional steps.  Site of the "Battle of Semarang" in 1945,
commemorated annually.
CUISINE
Pagaruyung Palace
Indonesian Satay (Sate)
 Grilled meat skewers served with peanut  Located in West Sumatra; a royal palace of
sauce. the Pagaruyung Kingdom.
 Beef Rendang  Traditional Minangkabau architecture with
 Spicy dish from Padang, Sumatra. three floors.
 Similar to curry but without broth.  Rebuilt multiple times due to fires in 1804,
1966, and 2007.
Nasi Rawon
 Beef stew from East Java; uses keluak nut for Breksi Cliff Park
nutty flavor.
 Located in Yogyakarta.
Sop Buntut (Oxtail Soup)  Features panoramic views of Prambanan and
Mount Merapi.
 Barbecued or fried oxtail in hearty soup.  Popular for sunrise and sunset views.
Nasi Uduk.
 Coconut milk steamed rice with sambal, fried Equator Monument (Khatulistiwa Park)
chicken, and emping crackers.
 Located in Pontianak, marks the division of
Sweet Martabak the northern and southern hemispheres.
 Stuffed pancake with toppings like peanuts,  Originally built near the Kapuas River and
chocolate sprinkles, or cheese. later relocated.
 Museums of Cultural and Historical
Key Highlights: Importance

Music like Gamelan and Dangdut preserve Ullen Sentalu Museum (Yogyakarta)
tradition while embracing modernity.
 Javanese culture and art museum.
Iconic dances (Saman, Kecak, Tor-Tor)  Exhibits relics from royal Javanese houses,
represent cultural values and rituals. batik, and paintings.

Diverse cuisine from flavorful Rendang to Jakarta History Museum (Fatahillah

aromatic Nasi Uduk. Museum)

 Located in Kota Tua (Old Town), Jakarta.

 Former city hall of Batavia, showcasing
Jakarta's prehistory and Dutch colonization.
ICC 411
Sonobudoyo Museum (Yogyakarta)
INDONESIA
 Javanese history museum with artifacts like
shadow puppets, ancient weapons, and
ceramics.
 Contains the second-largest collection of
Javanese artifacts in Indonesia.

Museum Gajah (Elephant Museum)

 Located in Central Jakarta.

 Preserves prehistoric artifacts, Hindu-
Buddhist statues, and ceramics from all over
Indonesia.

Maritime Museum (Jakarta)

 Located in the old Sunda Kelapa harbor area.

 Focuses on maritime history, including
models of fishing boats and Pinisi schooners.

Taman Werdhi Budaya Art Centre (Bali)

 Cultural center showcasing traditional

Balinese arts, dances, and music.
 Hosts the annual Bali Arts Festival (mid-June
to July).

Key Highlights:

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan: Sacred Hindu temple

on Lake Beratan.

Lawang Sewu: Symbol of Indonesia's colonial

and wartime history.

Museum Gajah: Rich collections preserving

Indonesia's cultural heritage.

Sonobudoyo Museum: Comprehensive

Javanese artifact collection.

Khatulistiwa Park: Marks Indonesia's position

on the equator.
 ICC 411 

MALAYSIA Population Distribution: Majority in Peninsular

Malaysia.
Overview/Introduction

TRADITIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS
Ethnic Categories:
Malaysia: A Southeast Asian nation celebrated for
its cultural diversity and vibrant traditions. Bumiputra: Indigenous peoples (including
Ethnic Groups: Malays, Chinese, Indians, and Malays).
indigenous groups. Non-Bumiputra: Immigrant populations (Chinese,
Cultural Identity: Harmonious fusion of heritage South Asians).
o
and modern influences. 
Key Theme: Unity in diversity as a strength. Key Cultural Aspects:
o
Historical Background Fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures.
Ancient Malay Kingdoms: Included the influential Warm hospitality and diverse traditions.
Malacca Sultanate. o
Colonial Era: British dominance left a lasting
impact. Language
World War II: Japanese occupation spurred 
independence aspirations. Official Language: Malay (Bahasa Malaysia).
Federation of Malaya: Formed in 1957, later English: Recognized as an important second
expanded into Malaysia (1963). language.
Included Malaya, Singapore, Sabah, Indigenous Languages: Spoken by
Sarawak.Singapore expelled in 1965. communities in Sabah and Sarawak.
Modern Era: Rapid economic and political 
development. Dialects: Include Baba Malay, Iban, Brunei
Malay, and others.
Geography 
Peninsular Malaysia: Southern segment of the
Malay Peninsula. Borders: Thailand (north), Economy
Singapore (south), Strait of Malacca (west). 
East Malaysia: States of Sarawak and Sabah on Ranking: 4th largest in Southeast Asia.
Borneo. Separated by the South China Sea. Shares Economic Sectors:

borders with Brunei and Indonesia (Kalimantan). o
Shift from agriculture to industry and services
(over 56% of GDP).
Land Composition:
Major exporter of electronics and palm oil (2nd
Peninsular Malaysia: 40% of total area.
largest globally).
East Malaysia: 60% of total area. o
o

Currency:
Religion Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), divided into 100 sen.
Official Religion: Islam (followed by ~60%). Key Milestones:
Ethnic Religious Practices: 1967: Introduction of Malaysian dollar.
Chinese: Buddhism, Daoism, Confucianism, 1975: Renamed to Ringgit.
Christianity (minority). 1998: Pegged to USD (1 USD = 3.80 MYR).
Indians: Hinduism, Islam, Christianity. 
Indigenous Groups: Local religions, Christianity,
Islam.
Kadazan and Murut: Primarily Christian, some
Muslim.

People and Culture

ICC 411

MALAYSIA
Overview/Introduction
TRADITIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS
 Independence Day/National Day
o Also known as Hari Merdeka.
Religious & Cultural Festivals o Celebrates Malaysia's
independence from British rule.
 Thaipusam
o Celebrated by Tamil Hindus.
 Mooncake Festival
o Commemorates victory of good
o Chinese Mid-Autumn Harvest
over evil (Lord Muruga vs.
Festival.
Surapadman).
o Features: Lantern shows,
o Key Features: Batu Cave
mooncakes, and kite flying.
celebrations, folk songs,
dances, and processions.
 Deepavali
 Chinese New Year
o Hindu festival of lights
o 15-day celebration with red and
celebrating the triumph of good
gold decorations.
over evil.
o Traditional lion and dragon
o Highlights: Fireworks, kolams
dances, prayers for good luck,
(rice art), and lighting lamps.
and beating drums to ward off
evil.
 Christmas
 Malaysia Water Festival
o Festive decorations and
o Month-long beach festivities.
caroling across Malaysia.
o Activities: Kayak sprinting,
sandcastle building, and fishing.
Music Festivals
 Wesak Day
o Buddhist festival marking the
 Rainforest World Music Festival
birth, enlightenment, and o Held in Sarawak.
passing of Gautama Buddha.
o Combines tribal and rock music
o Practices: Bathing Buddha
in a natural setting.
statues, prayers, and offering
 Urbanscapes
flowers and incense.
o Month-long music festival in
 Kaamatan Harvest Festival
Kuala Lumpur.
o Celebrated in Sabah by
o Features genres like indie, rock,
Kadazan-Dusun tribes.
hip-hop, and international
o Features: Food like
artists.
Bambangan and Hinava, and
rice wine.
ICC 411
 Dragon Boat Festival
o Held at Teluk Bahang Dam, MALAYSIA
Penang. Overview/Introduction
o Features colorful boat races and MUSIC, DANCE AND CUISINE
talent shows.
I. Music
 Gawai Harvest Festival  Religious and Traditional Music
o Celebrated in Sarawak by
tribes like Murut, Kayan, and  Religious Influence: Islamic music
Iban. incorporates instruments like the lute
o Includes feasts, tribal outfits, (“Oud”) and musical theories,
and beauty pageants (Kumang coexisting with Buddhist chants.
and Keling Gawai).
 Folkloristic Music: Dominates rural
 Hari Raya Aidilfitri areas, focusing on vocal traditions
o Marks the end of Ramadan. like lullabies and work songs, with
o Highlights: Decorations, feasts minimal instrumental pieces.
with dishes like Lemang,
Ketupat, and Satay.
Traditional Orchestras

 Gamelan:
 Origin: Indonesia. B. Chinese and Indian Dances

 Ensemble: Gong percussion and  Chinese Lion Dance: Energetic,

stringed instruments. symbolic dance during Chinese New
 Music: Ethereal, lilting melodies. Year.

 Nobat:  Dragon Dance: Represents

 Usage: Royal courts. supernatural power and dignity in
 Instruments: Serunai and nafiri wind Chinese culture.
instruments.
 Bharata Natyam: Classical Indian solo
 Key Instruments dance, rich in gestures and storytelling.

 Rebana Ubi: Giant drum for  Bhangra: Sikh community’s lively folk
communication, e.g., warnings or dance with heavy beats.
announcements.
 Kompang: Hand drum used in C. Dances of Sabah, Sarawak, and
parades, weddings, and official Orang Asli
functions.
 Gambus: Persian/Middle Eastern  Ngajat: Warrior dance celebrating
lute, central to Ghazal music. victorious headhunters.
 Sape: Wood-carved flute from the
Orang Ulu community, used in  Datun Julud: Celebrations for returning
healing ceremonies and warriors or end of harvest.
entertainment.
 Nose Flute: Indigenous to Sarawak;  Sumazau: Ritual dance to honor spirits
played during ceremonies, believed for a bountiful harvest.
to have spiritual significance.
 Bamboo Dance: Agile dance requiring
jumping between moving bamboo poles.
II. Dance
 Orang Asli Dance: Spiritually rooted
A. Malay Dances dance of indigenous tribes.

 Mak Yong: Romantic drama with singing

and dance, originating from Patani,
Thailand. III. Cuisine and Gastronomy

 Kuda Kepang: Javanese-inspired, Staple Dishes

dramatizing Islamic holy wars with mock
horses and percussion.  Nasi Lemak: Coconut rice with anchovy
chili sauce, fried peanuts, cucumber, and
 Zapin: Introduced by Middle Eastern egg.
missionaries; devotional dance with
chanting.  Rendang: Slow-cooked beef with spices,
toasted coconut, and tamarind.
 Joget: Upbeat, couple dance influenced
by Portuguese folk traditions.  Roti Canai: Flaky Indian-origin flatbread,
served with ghee.
 Tarian Lilin (Candle Dance):
Performed by women balancing candles Laksa:
while dancing.
 Coconut Curry Laksa: Rich, spicy soup
 Silat: Martial art with flowery, danceable with noodles, shrimp, and chicken.
movements.
 Assam Laksa: Sweet-sour fish-based
soup with tamarind.

 Satay: Skewered, grilled meats with

sweet-spicy peanut sauce.

Festive Desserts
ICC 411
Hari Raya:
MALAYSIA
 Kuih Keria: Sweet potato doughnuts Overview/Introduction
ARCHITECTURE, MUSEUMS AND
with crusted sugar.
MONUMENTS
 Tepung Pelita: Coconut-pandan dessert
Overview
wrapped in pandan leaves.
Malaysia's architecture is deeply influenced
by its history, diversity, and assortment
 Pulut Panggang: Grilled glutinous rice
of ethnicities, showcasing styles such as
stuffed with shrimp or meat.
Islamic impressions, Asian designs, and
colonial artistic patterns. Over time,
 Apam Puteri Ayu: Steamed pandan Malaysian architecture has evolved from
sponge cakes. Gothic and Tudor styles in the 19th century
to modern and postmodern designs in the
 Kuih Seri Muka: Pandan custard late 20th century.
layered over glutinous rice.
Colonial Architecture of Malaysia
 Badak Berendam: Sweet glutinous rice
balls in coconut cream sauce. Kek Lok Si Temple
 Kuih Bakar: Baked pandan cake with  Largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia,
sesame seeds. located in Air Itam, Penang.
 Built between 1890–1930.
 Onde-Onde: Glutinous rice balls filled  Important pilgrimage site for Buddhists
with palm sugar and rolled in grated from regions like Hong Kong and
coconut. Singapore.
Deepavali: City Hall Penang
 Laddu, Coconut Candy, and Ghee-  Located in George Town, Penang.
Based Sweets: Traditional Indian  A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
festive treats.  Whitewashed two-story building with
Edwardian Baroque and Palladian
Mid-Autumn Festival: styles, completed in 1903.
 Mooncakes: Pastries filled with sweet Islamic Architecture of Malaysia
bean, lotus-seed paste, or egg yolk.
Menara Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur
 Street Food Tower)
 Lok Lok: Hokkien-style skewers  Built between 1984–1995.
(chicken, squid, vegetables) served from  7th tallest freestanding tower in the
street vendors. world (421 meters with the antenna).
 Functions as an Islamic falak
observatory for sighting the crescent
moon.

Masjid Negara (National Mosque)

 Located in Kuala Lumpur,
accommodating 15,000 people.
 Adorned with green and blue tiles.

Masjid Kristal (Crystal Mosque)

 Made of steel, glass, and crystal.

 Located in Wan Man, Malaysia,
completed in 2008.
 Known for its refined architectural style.

Moorish and Mughal Architecture

Masjid Jamek

 Combines Moorish, Islamic, and

Mughal architectural styles.
 Surrounded by palm trees and
considered a must-see in Kuala Lumpur.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building

 Indo-Saracenic and Moorish-style

architecture in Kuala Lumpur.
 Houses the Ministry of Information,
Communications, and Culture.
 A historical wonder amidst modern
developments.

Late Modernism and Postmodernism

Architecture

Petronas Twin Towers

 Iconic 88-floor skyscraper, completed

in 1999.
 Once the world's tallest building, later
surpassed by Taipei 101.

Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum

 Wooden replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s

palace, built in 1986.
 Located in Malacca City, dedicated to
the Malacca Sultanate's history.

Istana Budaya (Palace of Culture)

 Inspired by traditional moon kite and

sirih junjung (betel leaf arrangements).
 Hosts theatrical performances and
concerts in Kuala Lumpur.
ICC 411 7. Ceramics and Pottery: Influenced
VIETNAM by Chinese and Indian styles;
flourished under the Ly Dynasty.
Overview/Introduction
8. Non Nouc Stone Carving: From
tools to decorative and religious
I. Overview
items.
 Vietnam: Located in Southeastern
Asia, bordered by the Gulf of
Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and
III. Festivals and Celebrations
South China Sea; neighboring
Cambodia, China, and Laos.
 Government: Communist state with 1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnam Lunar
a president (chief of state) and a New Year): Marks spring's arrival;
prime minister (head of includes ancestor worship and city
government). festivities.
 Historical Highlights: Early 2. Lim Festival: Features Quan Ho folk
agricultural center with wet rice singing, tug-of-war, and bamboo
farming. Unified government formed fighting.
in 2879 BC due to Red River flooding 3. Ghost Festival: Honors ancestors
and defense needs. with prayers and offerings.
 Religions: Predominantly Buddhism, 4. Perfume Pagoda Festival: A
alongside Confucianism, Taoism, pilgrimage through scenic landscapes
Catholicism, and Cao Dai. to sacred caves.
 Population: 99.5 million (2024), 5. Independence Day (September 2):
40.4% urban, with a median age of Celebrates independence from France
32.8 years. in 1945.
 Language: Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt), 6. Hue Festival: Biennial event
official language, alongside featuring traditional music, fashion
recognized minority languages like shows, and performances.
Tay, Muong, and Cham. 7. Hoi An Lantern Festival: Monthly
 Currency: Dong (₫), in use since lantern displays in UNESCO heritage
1978. site streets.
8. Mid-Autumn Festival: Colorful
celebration with moon cakes, jellies,
and Lion Dance.
II. Traditional Arts and Crafts

1. Dong Ho Painting: Depicts daily life,

myths, and prosperity; uses natural IV. Music, Dance, and Cuisine
ink made from bamboo ash and oyster
shells. Music and Dance
2. Lacquerware: Layers of high-gloss
lacquer with mother-of-pearl, gold, 1. Nha Nhac: Royal court music;
and silver. Intricate and labor- UNESCO heritage (2003).
intensive. 2. Ca Tru: Ceremonial singing using
3. Silk Painting: Soft, elegant, depicts traditional instruments.
landscapes and historical events using 3. Quan Ho: Folk singing with male-
silk as a canvas.
female harmony.
4. Hand Embroidery: Over 700 years
4. Xoan Singing: UNESCO heritage
old; features fine threads and vibrant
(2011); uses drums and bamboo
colors for decorative items.
flutes.
5. Conical Hats (Non La): Iconic,
5. Lotus Dance: Celebrates the purity
especially associated with Hue;
and beauty of the lotus flower.
symbolize Vietnamese culture.
6. Water Puppetry: Puppets performed
6. Van Phuc Silk: Smooth, light, and
over water, originating from the Red
historically used for royal attire.
River Delta.
 7. Dragon Dance: Symbolizes power  Capital: Vientiane, near the Mekong
and good fortune. River.
 Population (2023): Approx. 7.58 million.
 Religion: Majority Buddhist (64.7%).
Cuisine  Language: Lao (5 regional dialects,
based on ancient Siamese alphabet).
1. Pho: Noodle soup with beef broth, a
Vietnamese staple.
2. Banh Mi: French-inspired baguette
sandwich with various fillings. Traditional Arts and Crafts:
3. Bun Bo Hue: Spicy beef noodle soup
from Hue.  Textiles: Handwoven silk and cotton
4. Goi Cuon: Fresh spring rolls wrapped using techniques like chok (discontinuous
in rice paper. supplementary weft) and mat mi (resist-
5. Ca Phe Trung: Vietnamese egg dyeing), creating garments like the pha
sin (wrap-around skirt).
coffee, a mix of egg yolks and
 Ceramics: Ancient techniques revealed at
condensed milk. Sisattanak Kiln Site near Vientiane.
 Basketry: Handmade by various ethnic
groups using bamboo and rattan, notably
by the Khmu people.
V. Architecture, Museums, and  Gold and Silver Work: Originating from
Monuments the Khmer Empire and developed in
Luang Prabang during the 16th century.
 Woodcarving: Used for creating Buddha
1. Ly Dynasty: Pagodas and citadels images and temple decorations.
like Thang Long with curved roofs  SA Paper Handicrafts: Revived for
and dragon motifs. decorative and modern items like
2. Tran Dynasty: Structures like Binh lampshades.
Son Tower and Pho Minh Temple
emphasize open-air designs.
3. Nguyen Dynasty: Includes the Hue
Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Festivals and Celebrations:
Heritage Site.
4. French Colonial Architecture:  Boun Pha Wet (January-February): A
Notable in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh religious festival commemorating the
City—e.g., Hanoi Opera House, Buddha's life.
Saigon Post Office.  Boun Ma Kha Bu Saar (Magha Puja,
5. My Son Sanctuary: Cham February): Celebrates a significant
Buddhist gathering.
architectural site, UNESCO heritage
 Boun Khoun Khao (Rice Festival,
(1999). March): A celebration of the rice
harvest, with rituals showing gratitude to
nature.

ICC 411

LAOS
Overview/Introduction
Music, Dance, and Cuisine:

 Music: Traditional music features the

khene (bamboo mouth organ) and
accompanies festivals and ceremonies.
 Dance: Performed during various
Laos Overview: ceremonies and festivals, reflecting local
folklore.
 Cuisine: Focuses on fresh herbs,
 Official Name: Lao People's Democratic
vegetables, spices, and sticky rice,
Republic
commonly served with grilled meats and
 Location: Landlocked in Southeast Asia,
spicy dips.
bordered by Burma, Cambodia, China,
Thailand, and Vietnam.
 Geography: Predominantly mountainous
and forested, with the Mekong River
forming the western boundary.
Architecture, Museums, and
Monuments:

 Architecture: Buddhist-inspired
structures like temples (wats) with
intricate carvings and murals.
 Museums: Located in Vientiane,
showcasing Laos’s history and culture.
 Monuments: That Luang Stupa is a key
symbol of national pride.
ICC 411 ethnic traditions through costumes

PHILIPPINE
and dances.
 Panagbenga Festival: A flower
festival in Baguio City celebrating
resilience after the 1990 earthquake.

S
Overview/Introduction
 Giant Lantern Festival: Held in San
Fernando City, featuring
competition for the largest lanterns.
a

 Dinagyang Festival: A celebration of

Santo Niño, marked by street parties
and cultural performances.
Overview
These festivals preserve traditional practices
 The Philippines is a vibrant
and foster community spirit.
archipelago in Southeast Asia, known
for its rich cultural diversity shaped by
indigenous, Spanish, and American Music, Dance, and Cuisine
influences.
 Cultural aspects include arts and  Traditional music: Features
crafts, festivals, music, dance, instruments like kulintang (gongs)
cuisine, architecture, museums, and bandurria (string instrument).
and monuments.  Folk dances: Tinikling (bamboo
 The country's colonial history has dance), emphasizing community
significantly shaped its traditions and participation and storytelling.
social norms.  Filipino cuisine: A fusion of flavors,
with dishes like adobo, sinigang, and
Traditional Arts and Crafts lechon reflecting the agricultural
bounty.
 Inabel Weaving: A textile from the
Ilocos region with geometric patterns Architecture, Museums, and
(binakol) to ward off evil spirits. Monuments
 Burnay Pottery: Earthenware jars for
food storage and fermentation,  Intramuros: The historic walled city
introduced by Chinese migrants. in Manila, reflecting Spanish
 Capiz Shell Crafts: Iridescent shells colonial architecture.
used for windows and decorative  Baclayon Church: One of the oldest
items. stone churches in the Philippines,
 Basket Weaving: Craft using local located in Bohol.
materials for storage and decoration.  Museums: Institutions like the
 Woodcarving: Intricate designs National Museum of Fine Arts
created from local woods like narra house works by Filipino artists like
and molave. Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo.
 Beadwork and Embroidery:  Monuments: Commemorate
Decorative items made from local historical events and figures across
materials, showcasing regional styles. the country, highlighting the
Philippines' rich history.
These crafts serve both practical purposes
and express artistic Filipino culture.

Festivals and Celebrations

 Ati-Atihan Festival: Celebrated in

January, honoring Santo Niño with
street dancing and costumes.
 Sinulog Festival: A major event in
Cebu symbolizing the transition from
paganism to Christianity.
 Kaamulan Festival: A tribal
celebration in Bukidnon showcasing
ICC 411

BRUNEI
Overview/Introduction
IV. Music, Dance, and Cuisine

 Traditional Music: Instruments like

gendang (drum) and serunai (flute),
performed at ceremonies.
I. Overview of Brunei Darussalam  Dance: Adai-adai, a dance reflecting
Bruneian folklore, performed during
 Location: Northern coast of Borneo, festivals.
Southeast Asia.  Cuisine: Influenced by Malay culture,
 Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan. with dishes such as Nasi Lemak and
 Notable Landmarks: Satay. Use of spices reflects historical
o Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah trade connections.
Mosque
o Istana Nurul Iman (Sultan's V. Architecture, Museums, and
palace) Monuments
 Historical Background: Once a
powerful sultanate from the 14th to  Mosques: The Jame’Asr Hassanil
16th centuries; later faced territorial Bolkiah Mosque is a key example of
losses due to wars and colonial Islamic architecture.
expansion.  Palaces: Istana Nurul Iman, one of
 Population (July 2024): the largest residential palaces
Approximately 455,873 people. globally.
 Languages: Malay (official), English.  Museums: The Brunei Museum
preserves and showcases national
II. Traditional Arts and Crafts history.

 Songkok: Traditional cap, crafted Salient Terms and Information

since 1975 by the Brunei Arts and
Handicrafts Training Centre. 1. Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah
 Anyaman (Basketweaving): Mosque: Iconic mosque with golden
Bamboo and rattan weaving, domes.
commonly practiced by housewives.
2. Istana Nurul Iman: World’s largest
 Silverwork: Originated in Kampung
residential palace.
Pandai Mas, dating back to the 15th
century.
3. Anyaman: Bamboo and rattan
 Tenunan (Cloth Weaving): weaving.
Traditional weaving, unchanged since 4. Kris: Symbolic traditional dagger.
Sultan Bolkiah's reign. 5. Gendang and Serunai: Traditional
 Kris: Traditional dagger with historical musical instruments.
significance in Brunei's warrior 6. Mauludin Nabi S.A.W.: Prophet
culture. Muhammad’s Birthday celebration.
7. Nasi Lemak and Satay: Typical
III. Festivals and Celebrations Bruneian dishes, reflecting Malay
influence.
 Mauludin Nabi S.A.W.: Prophet
Muhammad's Birthday, marked by
religious rallies, Koran recitations, and
royal processions.
 Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya
Aidiladha: Major Islamic holidays
involving prayers, feasting, and
charity.
 These festivals highlight Brunei's
Islamic and cultural heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: A  Americas: Includes historical cities like Machu Picchu
(Peru) and Yellowstone National Park (USA).
Quick Overview
Why are they Important?
What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
UNESCO World Heritage Sites help preserve the
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific
world's most valuable cultural and natural treasures.
and Cultural Organization) designates World
Protecting these sites is vital for maintaining the
Heritage Sites to preserve cultural, historical, and
integrity of human history and the environment.
natural landmarks of exceptional value. These sites
are recognized for their importance to humanity and
How Many Sites are There?
the need to safeguard them for future generations.
As of 2024, there are over 1,100 World Heritage
Sites in more than 160 countries.
Categories of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Threats to UNESCO Sites
1. Cultural Sites
Many World Heritage Sites face threats from
These include landmarks, buildings, or
urbanization, climate change, tourism, and conflict.
human-made structures of significant
Efforts are made to monitor and protect these sites,
historical or cultural importance.
but many remain at risk.
Examples:
Conclusion
1. The Great Wall of China
UNESCO World Heritage Sites represent
2. The Pyramids of Giza (Egypt) humanity's shared legacy, and their preservation is
3. The Historic Centre of Rome (Italy) critical to understanding our past, protecting nature,
and ensuring that future generations can appreciate
them.
2. Natural Sites
These are areas of natural beauty or
ecological significance, including national
parks and landscapes.
Examples:

1. The Great Barrier Reef (Australia)

2. Yellowstone National Park (USA)
3. Galápagos Islands (Ecuador)
------------NOTHING FOLLOWS
3. Mixed Sites ------------------------
These sites possess both cultural and natural
significance.
Examples:

1. Machu Picchu (Peru)

2. Mount Athos (Greece)

World Heritage Sites by Region

 Africa: Contains a diverse array of cultural and

natural sites like the Pyramids of Egypt and the
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania).
 Asia: Includes iconic sites like the Great Wall of
China and the Taj Mahal (India).
 Europe: Features landmarks like the Acropolis
(Greece) and the historic city of Prague (Czech
Republic).
 Oceania: Home to natural wonders like the Great
Barrier Reef and Kakadu National Park (Australia).