Once a hallmark of tradition and status, the sinjang remains a defining element of Malay men’s formal attire.
Worn over the Baju Cara Melayu, this sarong-like wrap has long been a symbol of elegance, often reserved for weddings, religious ceremonies and festive occasions like Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
More than just an accessory, the sinjang conveys dignity and refinement, with its intricate folds and secure fastening requiring a level of skill that sets seasoned wearers apart from novices.
In Malaysia and Singapore, they are known as samping or kain dagang and are typically tied at the waist and extend to the knees.
While Bruneians follow a similar style, the way a sinjang is worn has evolved over time, shifting from strictly traditional methods to more practical solutions.
Today, while many still take pride in the meticulous art of tying it by hand, others have embraced modern alternatives, such as the instant sinjang, which offers the same polished look without the struggle.
This shift is something that Seruddin bin Awang Damit, a veteran in wedding costume tailoring, recognised early on.
After more than two decades in the industry, he ventured into the instant sinjang market four years ago, responding to growing demand from men seeking convenience without sacrificing tradition.
“As a make-up artist, I assist bridegrooms in wearing the sinjang. It was through customer requests that I got the idea to design the instant sinjang. Some of the sinjangs I offer are sourced internationally, while others come directly from my customers,” said Seruddin, adding that he also provides modification services for customers who send in their sinjang for adjustments.
Though he was not the first to enter the business, he has been a pioneer in educating and demonstrating the traditional way of wearing the sinjang across Brunei.
His passion for cultural preservation goes beyond tailoring – during his tenure at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, he led workshops on the intricate folding techniques of both the sinjang and the dastar, engaging younger generations and fostering a deeper appreciation for Brunei’s rich heritage.
While his business continues to thrive, Seruddin understands that success is about more than just sales.
Each year brings new challenges, requiring patience, adaptability, and a hands-on approach. He firmly believes that managing and taking ownership of one’s craft is essential – a lesson that has guided his journey in both business and cultural preservation.
By blending tradition with modern innovation, he ensures that the sinjang remains not just a relic of the past, but a meaningful part of Brunei’s present and future.
His passion has always been to preserve the authentic essence of Brunei’s traditions while making them more accessible and practical for the modern world.
He is dedicated to ensuring that individuals can wear the sinjang quickly and neatly without compromising its cultural significance. By doing so, he hopes to nurture and sustain Brunei’s rich heritage, allowing it to thrive for generations to come.
Beyond his work with sinjangs, he also crafts the and embraces the role of an educator, sharing his knowledge of both traditional garments.
He then reflected on how wearing the sinjang was once an integral part of daily life – a tradition he sees making a comeback as it gains popularity among younger generations, a shift he warmly welcomes.
As long as people remain true to their cultural roots, he believes Brunei’s traditions will continue to be cherished and celebrated.
“The demand for sinjangs has definitely increased over the years. With the influence of social media platforms like TikTok, WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram, more people are discovering and embracing the trend.” – Lyna Mohammad
