Discover Brunei’s Kedayana music and culture
The Kedayan are an ethnic group living in Brunei and in some parts of Labuan, Sabah and Sarawak between the islands of Borneo. Kedayans have a unique heritage and their culture is as important to Brunei as their language and music.
Kedayan music is indigenous to the Malays of Brunei and is performed by its people, especially on special occasions. The music is accompanied by different instruments such as percussions, drums, gongs, and stringed instruments of different shapes. Music also accompanies ethnic dancers who wear the traditional warrior costume.
Kedayan’s music is relaxing and fun at the same time. As it is passed down from generation to generation, Kedayan’s music evolved into more modern and aesthetic music to suit the taste of the younger generation. Although time has undergone a subtle change, it still maintains its original ethnic and traditional melody. Travelers visiting Brunei often come to see the Kedayans and experience their unique musical ensembles. This has become one of the main attractions of a visit to Brunei.
The Aduk-aduk dance is performed during special occasions such as weddings, harvest seasons, and other holidays. It’s an entertaining dance to watch, with colorful outfits and lively musical activities. There are dances where the women are grouped dancing with the men but they have a completely different dance routine. The steps are very easy to follow and most of the time tourists and visitors enjoy the rhythm so much that they tend to dance.
Kedayan’s music is indeed very captivating music to listen to. With the dancing and the music, it is truly a captivating event to see in Brunei. Feel the Brunei experience when you listen to Kedayan music from Brunei. It is more like an interpretive dance, where the natives can express their minds and beliefs through dance and music.
Although the Kedayans are known to be a tight-knit community, travelers are always welcome to visit their city, where they can learn and discover the life and culture of the Kedayan people by listening to and witnessing their own native music. Dance routines and musical activities are usually held in the city’s public parks, where it is really open for the public to see.
Kedayans are really proud of their music, which fascinated the interest of many travelers from all over the world. Kedayan’s music is still being performed in the Kedayan community these days, and a trip here for a chance to hear his music would definitely complete a trip to Brunei.