UM exhibition celebrates Wayang Kulit’s timeless appeal

The Museum of Asian Art, Universiti Malaya, is currently hosting A Life in Shadows: The Story of Wayang Kulit, an exhibition and performance dedicated to the rich shadow puppet traditions of Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Curated by Constantine Korsovitis, the event brings together nearly 50 intricately crafted puppets sourced from across the region, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into this centuries-old storytelling art.

The exhibition was officially launched by Universiti Malaya’s Pro-Chancellor, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Diraja Ramli Ngah Talib, alongside Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman. It drew a distinguished audience of deans, ambassadors, NGOs, cultural centers, and media representatives, underlining the importance of preserving Southeast Asia’s shared cultural heritage. Accompanied by traditional instruments such as the gendang, gedombak, serunai, and gongs, skilled dalangs (puppet masters) animated the buffalo-hide puppets, weaving together captivating tales steeped in folklore, mythology, and moral teachings.

Honoring the Legacy of Dalang Dollah Baju Merah

One of the exhibition’s key highlights is a tribute to Dalang Dollah Baju Merah (Tok Dalang Abdullah Ibrahim, 1937–2005), a legendary Wayang Kulit master from Kelantan. Known for his distinctive red attire, Dollah Baju Merah was celebrated for his expressive storytelling and intricate puppet movements, ensuring the survival of Malay shadow theatre during an era of declining interest in traditional arts.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of his passing, the exhibition features 25 of his rarely seen puppets, including iconic characters such as Bapa Jin Gedung Gemita, Maharaja Rawana, and Dewa Betara Guru. These figures, once animated by Dollah Baju Merah’s expert hands, remain symbols of Malaysia’s deep-rooted Wayang Kulit tradition and serve as a reminder of the dedication required to keep this art form alive.

Preserving and Innovating Wayang Kulit

Curator Constantine Korsovitis has played a pivotal role in reviving interest in Wayang Kulit through extensive research and documentation. His book, A Life In Shadows: Shadow Theatre In South-East Asia, explores the history, techniques, and stylistic variations of shadow theatre across the region. For this exhibition, Korsovitis meticulously sourced rare artifacts from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia, ensuring an authentic representation of the art form’s depth and diversity.

The success of the event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Museum of Asian Art’s team, who worked tirelessly for months to curate and execute a showcase that both honors tradition and sparks contemporary interest. The exhibition serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit required to safeguard Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage.

Tradition Meets Modernity

While the exhibition pays homage to Wayang Kulit’s historical roots, it also highlights the evolution of this art form. In Malaysia, traditional puppetry has adapted to modern themes, giving rise to Fusion Wayang Kulit, which merges classic storytelling with contemporary narratives. One of the most notable examples is Peperangan Bintang—a Star Wars-inspired Wayang Kulit production that has captivated global audiences, proving that ancient arts can remain relevant in a digital age.

Historically, Wayang Kulit has drawn influence from Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, while also incorporating elements of Chinese shadow puppetry. This fusion of cultural influences reflects Southeast Asia’s historical role as a crossroads of civilizations, reinforcing the importance of preserving traditional arts while embracing innovation.

A Rare Cultural Showcase Not to Be Missed

A Life in Shadows: The Story of Wayang Kulit runs until 30th April 2025 at the Museum of Asian Art, Universiti Malaya. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about Southeast Asia’s diverse traditions, this exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the magic of Wayang Kulit up close.

Visitors can admire the artistry behind the puppets, learn about the enduring legacy of Dalang Dollah Baju Merah, and appreciate the efforts of those working to preserve and innovate this timeless form of storytelling. This exhibition is a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of shadow theatre.