Cover Dion Das Louis in his traditional outfit performing the Ngajat Dance (Photo: Oppo Malaysia)
Dion Das Louis in his traditional outfit performing the Ngajat Dance (Photo: Oppo Malaysia)
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The Oppo Malaysia ‘Through the Lens’ coffee table book documents five fading traditional art forms, aiming to inspire Malaysians to celebrate and preserve our nation’s unique diversity
Breathtaking photography meets cutting-edge technology in Oppo Malaysia Through the Lens, a stunning coffee table book from Oppo Malaysia. Captured by professional photographer and Oppo Reno Expert Samuel Goh, the book showcases expressive portraits of five traditional art forms that define the essence of Malaysian culture. Among the featured traditions are Kelantanese wayang kulit, Iban Ngajat dance, magagung penampang music, Penang’s Teowchew opera, and the poetic art of dondang sayang.
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More than just a visual feast, the book—created in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) and the Malaysian National Commission for UNESCO (MNCU)—is a call to action, urging Malaysians to preserve their rich cultural heritage. With Oppo’s innovative imaging and AI technology within the Reno11 series, Reno12 series, and Find N3 models, every detail of these traditional art forms is captured with exceptional clarity, ensuring their legacy is preserved for future generations.
Above Oppo Malaysia Through The Lens, Iban Ngajat dance by Dion Das Louis
The book also highlights the collaboration between 13th-generation master puppeteer Pak Dain and contemporary artist Tintoy Chuo, who have worked together for over a decade to bring the art of wayang kulit into the modern era. Goh’s photography captures their storytelling craft, offering a glimpse into the creation of intricate puppets and diverse characters that animate their performances.
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In another section, eight-year-old Dion Das Louis is featured as he brings the Iban Ngajat dance to life. Traditionally performed during the Gawai Dayak festival, Dion’s movements gracefully mimic a hornbill, reflecting both the beauty and spirituality of the dance.
Above The art form of magagung penampang demonstrated by a group of young Kadazan men
The art form of magagung penampang demonstrated by a group of young Kadazan men
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The musical tradition of magagung penampang is also immortalised in vivid detail, with photos capturing a group of young performers led by 31-year-old Jasper of KKD Chi Hwa. Their symphonies echo the history and spiritual connection of the Kadazan people, further emphasised by Goh’s masterful photography.
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Penang’s fourth-generation Teowchew opera performer, Ling Goh, is another captivating subject in the book. Her elaborate costumes and evocative performances are documented in striking portraits, offering a glimpse into her dedication to an art form that has been passed down through generations.
Above Master puppeteer, Pak Dain
Above Amelia Henderson admires a wayang kulit puppet in the making
Master puppeteer, Pak Dain
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Finally, dondang sayang—a poetic musical tradition deeply rooted in Malay, Baba Nyonya, Chitty and Portuguese communities—takes centre stage. Recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage in 2018, the tradition’s enduring beauty is captured through the Oppo lens. The book also features Datuk Mohd Baharim Mohd Sharip, a living legend who has devoted more than 50 years to preserving this art form of singing, music, and poetry.
Each photograph in Oppo Malaysia Through the Lens serves as a testament to the brand’s ethos: “Technology for mankind, kindness for the world.” The book is available for public viewing at Oppo stores, offering an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia through the eyes of its finest artists and performers.
Credits
Photography: Oppo Malaysia
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