Mawar Suhaila, Ab Razak and Laura Prati, Tutom (2025) Preserving Intangible Islamic Heritage: Poetic and Aesthetic Expressions of Dikir Burdah in Sarawak, Malaysia. -. pp. 1-19. ISSN - (In Press)
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Abstract
This study explores the role of Dikir Burdah (DB), a traditional Malay devotional performance, in preserving the intangible Islamic cultural heritage of the Malay-Muslim community in Kampung Hulu, Sri Aman, Sarawak, Malaysia (KHSASM). Combining poetic literature, spiritual expression, and musical aesthetics, DB represents a unique heritage form deeply embedded within local identity and intergenerational transmission. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach, in-depth interviews, content analysis of original poetic lyrics, and direct observation of performances, this research investigates how aesthetic and poetic dimensions of DB contribute to cultural continuity and spiritual well-being. The findings highlight the lyrics' performative and meditative value, the art form's communal function, and the challenges posed by modernization and declining practice among younger generations. This paper contributes to discussions on safeguarding intangible Islamic cultural heritage by emphasizing the importance of local poetic traditions and culturally embedded art forms in sustaining cultural identity and communal resilience. It also proposes culturally sensitive documentation, revitalization, and policy integration strategies in heritage preservation.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Additional Information: | This manuscript is a preprint archived on SSRN (DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.5431470). It has received 498 downloads and 604 abstract views, indicating significant early readership despite not yet being published in a peer-reviewed journal. |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Intangible cultural heritage, Dikir Burdah, poetic aesthetics, cultural preservation, Malay tradition, Islamic art. |
| Subjects: | M Music and Books on Music > M Music M Music and Books on Music > ML Literature of music |
| Divisions: | Academic Faculties, Institutes and Centres > Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts Faculties, Institutes, Centres > Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts Academic Faculties, Institutes and Centres > Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts |
| Depositing User: | Ab Razak |
| Date Deposited: | 12 Dec 2025 08:48 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Dec 2025 08:48 |
| URI: | http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/50932 |
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