As part of the 2024 Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP), the Brunei contingent will showcase a line-up of cultural performances and an original screenplay.
The annual programme provides a platform for participating countries to share their unique cultural identity.
Led by national leader for the Brunei Contingent Syed Abdul Muiz bin Haji Syed Anayatullah Shah, the contingent will perform cultural performances including Warisan Satu Anugerah, Adai-Adai, Dundang Beranyut, Joget Hati Tertawan and Silat Melayu, alongside The Infinity of Us, an original piece written by Farhan Jafar Ali.
The screenplay explores love across lifetimes with a Bruneian touch, Syed Abdul Muiz shared.
Set in Brunei’s iconic water village, the story follows Awang Satria, a fisherman, and Dang Kesuma, a lively padian (goods seller on a boat), who encounters Tua Jati, an elder guarding a mysterious past.
A dark presence known as Bulan Gerhana threatens their love, symbolising the challenges of fate and time. Syed Abdul Muiz highlighted that developing the screenplay’s intricate themes within a limited timeframe posed challenges, particularly in assembling the cast and fine-tuning the performance. “We were tasked to incorporate Bruneian themes and culture. We also wanted to blend traditional and modern choices as well,” he added. The cultural showcase also includes Warisan Satu Anugerah, a fusion of traditional Bruneian dances reflecting the elegance of Brunei’s arts.
Adai-Adai, a folk song sung by fishermen on Brunei’s waters, introduces the setting, while Dundang Beranyut tells of strangers becoming lovers in a village, punctuated by the arrival of the story’s antagonist.
In Joget Hati Tertawan, a dance seen at weddings and festive gatherings, couples exchange a bronze tray of flowers in a display of affection.
Silat Melayu, Brunei’s traditional martial art, brings a powerful display of defence rooted in Malay heritage.
The performance will also feature a cover of Salahkah Aku by local artiste Fakhrul Razi, a poignant song that amplifies the story’s themes of heartbreak, followed by a vibrant closing dance, Gurindam.
Syed Abdul Muiz explained, “The Infinity of Us is a tribute to Brunei’s heritage and embodies themes that will connect with our friends from ASEAN and Japan.”
In bringing Brunei’s rich cultural identity to the SSEAYP stage, Syed Abdul Muiz and his team hope to foster shared pride and appreciation among all participants, celebrating both tradition and the energy of Brunei’s youth.
The programme will span 38 days, from November 4 in Tokyo, Japan, with stops in several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam and Indonesia, before concluding back in Tokyo on December 11. – Lyna Mohamad
