Sumazau

Sumazau dance
Two pairs of dancers in Kadazan clothing with their arms outstretched.
Four dancers dancing the Sumazau in pairs accompanied by a traditional musical ensemble
Native nameSumazau
EtymologySazau (dance) in the Kadazan language
GenreTraditional, folk
Instrument(s)Gongs, drum, occasionally metallophone
InventorKadazan people
OriginMalaysia

The sumazau is a dance performed by the Kadazandusun from Penampang and adjacent areas in west coast Sabah. It is usually performed during Kaamatan.[1] The dance involves male and female pairs who are dressed in traditional clothing. The rhythm of the dance is set by the beat of hanging gongs. It is performed by raising both arms to shoulder height and flapping them.[2]

  1. ^ Mu, Paul (2022-05-31). "Keeping rhythms and flavours of the harvest festival alive". New Straits Times. Retrieved 2023-08-13.
  2. ^ Sharifah Darmia binti Sharif Adam (2020-11-24). "Pengaruh Budaya dalam Keharmonian Etnik di Sabah" [Cultural Influence in Sabahan Ethnic Harmony] (PDF). Persidangan Antarabangsa Sains Sosial dan Kemanusiaan. 5: 65.