The Art of Musical Instrument Symbol of the Malay Tradition of Brunei Membakut, Sabah

Abstract

This article discusses the art of traditional musical instruments of the Bruneian Malays on the west coast, Sabah. Touching on the artistic aspect, it is part of a culture rich in homogeneity and beauty. These tribes have their own arts according to their respective cultures and religions. For people who are Muslims, they use the art of musical instruments for purposes that do not conflict with religion and thus symbolize the life traditions of a race, especially the Bruneian Malays on the west coast of Sabah. Kulintangan and gambus have been considered as a traditional musical instrument for the people. This musical instrument has long been known by other races, and it is often played during weddings, festivals and so on. The musical instruments of Brunei's Malays have similarities and differences from other races in Sabah. However, the scope of the study is focused on the west coast of Sabah because this area still preserves musical instruments as a traditional art form of Brunei Malays. In this study, a qualitative method approach was applied as a methodology to obtain findings. Therefore, this article will discuss the perception of the Malays in accepting the art of musical instruments as a tradition and the efforts made by the Malays of Brunei as well as the efforts of the Malays of Brunei and stakeholders to preserve the tradition of kulintangan and gambus as an art of musical instruments.