10/09/2025

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 10, 2025

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Dragons across time and tradition

TAIPING: The dragon is a mythological figure celebrated in ancient cultures worldwide, often seen as a symbol of strength, vitality, harmony and good fortune. Traditionally depicted as a vast, serpent-like creature with mystical powers, the dragon loomed large in the belief systems of civilisations across the ages. Far beyond China, where it became a defining cultural emblem, dragons also appeared in Malay, Japanese, Korean, Indian, European and Latin American traditions, each interpreting the creature in its own way. To shed light on this enduring symbol, the Museums Department has been hosting the “Dragon Exhibition: Images in Material Culture” at the Perak Museum here since April 28. Perak Museum director Mohd Nasrulamiazam Mohd Nasir said the exhibition highlights how dragons, in various forms, have featured across cultures and time. “The exhibition showcases artefacts, photographs and texts featuring dragons in material culture, including wood carvings, textiles, sculptures, ceramics and metalwork o Perak Museum exhibition traces how mythical serpent-beasts shaped cultures from Asia to Europe

from diverse traditions,” Bernama reported. He said the origins of dragon worship in Southeast Asia remain uncertain. Some scholars suggest that local communities adapted the concept from India, although debates continue on when and how Indian dragon motifs merged with indigenous serpent-spirit traditions in the region. “Research shows that dragon worship and belief in serpent spirits already existed in Southeast Asia before the spread of major religions. Clear evidence can be seen in indigenous cults such as the dragon and hornbill traditions of the Dayak Ngadju in Kalimantan, Indonesia, which still endure today. “Later, when rulers became active in maritime trade, they began invoking the ‘dragon spirit’ to assert dominance over sea territories and secure new resources.” However, compared with Indonesia, Mohd Nasrulamiazam said the use of dragon motifs in Malaysia was limited. “Cultural objects such as jars, pottery, ceramics, kettles and gongs show external influences, particularly Javanese, Siamese and Chinese. Still, some locally produced tools carried dragon themes in their carvings. “In woodcarving, Malay craftsmen sometimes used dragon motifs, especially for boat prows, quail traps and weapon hilts. “In metalwork, certain cannons such as the lela rentaka were designed with dragon heads on their barrels or handles.” The artefacts displayed are from both the National Museum (KL) and Perak Museum. The museum expects more than 100,000 visitors before the exhibition ends on Jan 31 next year.

Research shows that dragon worship and belief in serpent spirits already existed in Southeast Asia before the spread of major religions, said Mohd Nasrulamiazam during a tour of the exhibition at Perak Museum yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Fly Jalur Gemilang with respect, experts urge KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s National Day on Aug 31 may be over, but love for the country should be shown all year round. Experts stress that the Jalur Gemilang must be flown proudly, not misused or displayed carelessly. red, white, blue and yellow colours in creative designs. Universiti Malaya sociopolitical analyst Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said Jalur Gemilang –inspired fashion can show patriotism, but only if done respectfully.

warned that turning the flag into fashion risks reducing it to waste once discarded. “Under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 (Act 414), using the Jalur Gemilang without written permission is prohibited. Designs must follow approved specifications, and altering the flag requires formal approval from the Information Department.” She called for a mix of education, digital campaigns and workshops for designers to ensure creative boundaries are respected. Misuse, she reminded, is punishable with fines of up to RM20,000, three years’ jail - or both. – Bernama

among the younger generation. Legal and constitutional expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Shamrahayu A. Aziz echoed the call, saying public awareness of proper flag etiquette remains low despite information being available online. She proposed the Education Ministry to organise school programmes on flag use, with efforts extended to the private sector and businesses producing Jalur Gemilang -themed items. “The flag is a symbol of national identity and sovereignty and it is the duty of every citizen to safeguard and honour it.” Former law lecturer Dr Ainul Jaria Maidin

Too often, the flag has been worn as clothing, used as decoration or even hung upside down – acts that suggest neglect and a lack of awareness. Each stripe, crescent and star carries meaning, collectively symbolising national sovereignty. According to the Information Department, the flag must not be turned into clothing, table covers, umbrellas, hats or masks. What is allowed, however, is drawing inspiration from its

“Using the actual flag to make clothing or accessories is inappropriate and goes against guidelines,” he said, and advised the public to refer to the Information Department’s rules before creating costumes or products based on the national emblem. He also suggested schools and government agencies spread awareness through posters, infographics and social media to instil respect