Topless Dancers and Bdsm Elements Feature in Controversial Malay Dance Performance

Hong Kong contemporary dance company Unlock Dancing Plaza has caused heads to turn after presenting a Malay dance performance that appeared to depart from traditional norms, with movements that some viewed as overly sexualised.

The dancers appeared in revealing outfits and performed to non-traditional beats, incorporating elements such as sex toys, BDSM-inspired clothing, and intimate physical contact. In one scene, the pair were seen lowering themselves to the floor while kissing.

The performance, titled "Berahi: Holy Unions," was choreographed by Sarah Aiken and Singaporean Malay dancer Norhaizad Adam and it examines how cultural norms and traditions have shaped the way intimacy and desire are viewed as taboo within the Malay-Muslim community.

He also explained that Malay dance can be used to explore these themes in a "sexy" way, leading him to blend traditional Malay dance movements with references to sex manuscripts.

The performance has drawn criticism from those who felt it undermined Malay-Muslim culture. Some argued that it gave the impression that values such as politeness and modesty were being portrayed as outdated or weak.

This is not the first time Adam's work has pushed boundaries. At Pesta Raya 2022, he presented his solo piece, "The Wrong Geng 2.0," opening the performance in black vinyl shorts.

The work drew from the history of ronggeng, a traditional dance form, while using it to examine ideas around gender, performance, labour and Malay identity.