Johor bahru: The state government, through Yayasan Warisan Johor (YWJ), has declared two zapin dances as new variations of Zapin Johor, in a bid to preserve and promote the state’s cultural arts and treasured heritage. State Unity, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman K. Raven Kumar announced that the declaration marks the first recognition of new zapin variations in 15 years, following the acknowledgment of Zapin Selat Panjang from Kluang.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the two newly recognised zapin variations are the Zapin Ginjat, performed in Parit Tengah Air Hitam, Muar, and the Zapin Tanjung Selabu, originating from Kampung Tanjung Selabu in Bukit Pasir. The Zapin Ginjat, distinguished by its fast, vigorous steps, is performed by men in pairs and accompanied by the marwas, a small drum played in a distinctive pattern. The late Suhairi Adam, known as Wak Turiman, was a master of this zapin.

Raven Kumar detailed that the Zapin Tanjung Selabu, popularized by Kumpulan Sinar Harapan, includes ten distinct steps such as Langkah Asas, Silang Gunting, and Anak Ikan. Both dance types underwent a comprehensive process of study, documentation, and verification by heritage experts and practitioners before their official recognition.

YWJ aims to reinforce zapin’s status as a distinguished tradition of Johor through this recognition, which is expected to create opportunities for research, performances, and dance studies within the community and educational institutions. This initiative aligns with efforts to diversify Johor’s cultural promotion ahead of Visit Johor Year 2026.

Previously, Johor had recognised other zapin variations including Zapin Tanjung Laboh, Zapin Tenglu, and Zapin Sri Bunian as part of its cultural heritage.