Rebana Kercing of Kampung Laut: The Preservation of the Art

Abstract

This book is dedicated to those who cherish cultural heritage. The Rebana Kercing of Kampung Laut is a traditional performing art heritage of Kampung Laut, Kelantan. The Rebana Kercing of Kampung Laut, as how it is called, has been practised for almost two centuries in Kelantan, a state on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia; however, as compared to other performing arts in Kelantan, the Rebana Kercing of Kampung Laut is only restricted to Kampung Laut, one of the most extensive and most populated villages in Kelantan. Though in the past Rebana Kercing were performed in different districts of Kelantan, they had their root in Kampung Laut. Currently, the last remaining group of Rebana Kercing performers can only be found in Kampung Laut. With its remaining activists ageing and no apparent apprentice to continue the legacy, the performing art is at risk of extinction. The Rebana Kercing of Kampung Laut is a performing art that combines dancing, singing, and music in a performance. The two groups in a typical Rebana Kercing performance will be the dancers and the musicians. In the past, it was a norm for Rebana Kercing to be performed at weddings, coronations, festivals and other special occasions.