Page 71 - Proceedings Collega2023

ADAT PERPATIH PRESERVATION IN TANJONG THEATRE’S PERFORMANCE:
LOCAL COMMUNICATION WISDOM

Norsyuhada Ahmadrashidi*¹

Fakulti Komunikasi dan Pengajian Media, UITM Shah Alam.
syuhadarashidi@uitm.edu.my

Abstract
This study examines the conservation of local knowledge within the domain of traditional
artistic culture. The Adat Perpatih, a customary legal system, is still actively practiced in the state
of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, to this day. The cultural phenomenon known as Adat Perpatih
encompasses a wide array of artistic and cultural manifestations, encompassing various types of
artistic expression such as theater, music, and numerous modes of communication. The study
employed a text analysis of a script and performance of the "Tanjong Theatre" curated by Kelab
Teater Asar which was performed in the prestigious Istana Budaya, Malaysia in the year 2022. This

study identified that the practices of 'teromba', and ‘Istiadat Kerjan’ are integral to the
communication processes, conveying meanings to the audience. These various factors are
instrumental in developing civility in communication and promoting collaboration among those
involved in transmitting local knowledge. Based on the offered facts, this study has drawn the
conclusion that the perpetuation of constructive communication, along with a substantial level
of wisdom, will endure in future generations.

Keywords: Adat Perpatih; Istana Budaya; Tanjong Theater; Local wisdom; Constructive
communication

INTRODUCTION

The preservation and continuation of Adat Perpatih’s knowledge were effectively achieved
by intergenerational knowledge transfer, particularly through the practices of observation, active
listening, and learning, as well as the oral transmission of information from older generations
(Radzuan, 2023). Preservation of culture also can be facilitated through the utilisation of cultural
performances. A cultural performance can be defined as a form of expression in which individuals
showcase their cultural heritage. On the other hand, performing culture pertains to how our daily
language and behaviours serve as manifestations of our own cultural upbringing. Consequently,
these expressions can be examined as performances, regardless of whether we are consciously

aware of them as such (Brown et al., 2019).

To ensure the continuity of Adat Perpatih within the Malays community in Negeri
Sembilan, it is imperative for the community to actively embrace and uphold their customs,

International Conference on Local Wisdom of the Malay Archipelago (COLLEGA 2023) Page - 58 -