By Fitri Hazim Hazam
OSAKA, May 6 — The uniqueness of the Mah Meri mask dance brought vibrant energy to the Selangor Week exhibition at the Malaysia Pavilion during Expo Osaka in Kansai, Japan.
The mask dance, performed by Adi Guru Diaman Kisah from the Mah Meri Cultural Village, captivated visitors excited to witness the classical cultural performance at this world-class exhibition.
Visitors took the opportunity to take photos wearing the Bajos and Tok Naning masks worn by Adi Guru Diaman as memorable souvenirs.
The Mah Meri community believes the Bajos mask provides protection and promotes the fertility of crops and fruits, while the Tok Naning mask represents joy and cheerfulness.
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Little children and local visitors trying the free sticker book at the Selangor Week exhibition, part of the Malaysia Pavilion during Expo Osaka in Kansai, Japan on May 6, 2025. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
In addition, the exhibition, organised by the Selangor Malay Customs and Heritage Corporation (Padat), also offered visitors the chance to learn the art of weaving using nipah palm leaves.
Weaving is a craft closely associated with Japanese culture, particularly known for paper weaving (origami), while Mah Meri leaf weaving is referred to as Oriha (leaf weaving) by locals in the Land of the Rising Sun.
The Selangor Week exhibition, themed 'Building a Resilient Future', showcases Selangor as a forward-looking state that is competitive, globally connected, and driven by technology, culture, and youth empowerment.
This week-long programme positions Selangor as a state of the future — competitive, globally connected, and powered by innovation, heritage, and the energy of its youth.
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Visitors watch the Balle Balle Kuala Selangor group performance at the Selangor Week exhibition, part of the Malaysia Pavilion during Expo Osaka in Kansai, Japan on May 6, 2025. — Picture by FIKRI YUSOF/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
