Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia

Mah Meri Cultural Village & Masked Performance

A Cultural Introduction to the "Sea Nomads" of Malaysia Encounter one of Malaysia’s indigenous tribes and see their ritual mask dances at the Mah Meri Cultural Village. The Mah Meri are native Malaysians—former sea nomads who now live on land in kampong (villages) in a kinship community overseen by a batin (headman) who doubles as a bomoh (shaman). It is his task to administer to the moyang (ancestral spirits) who provide the village with guidance and protection. The unique mask dance that you will see is traditionally performed during ancestor day celebrations, weddings and other joyous occasions. It is performed by seven dancers accompanied by five musicians playing drums, brass gongs and bamboo sticks, and singing uplifting songs to the spirits. The village is also known for its fine woodworking, origami and pandanus weaving. Enjoy this must-see cultural experience along with refreshments and local delicacies such as local Malay cakes. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.