Embracing this spirit, a Chinese couple recently expressed their appreciation for cultural diversity by choosing traditional Malay attire as their official wedding outfit, capturing widespread attention and going viral on social media.
Dressed in matching cream-coloured songket ensembles complete with a “tanjak” (traditional headpiece) and “cucuk sanggul” (hair ornament), De Yang and Jie Lin mesmerised guests and were honoured with a full-fledged Malay ceremonial wedding.
Their arrival was greeted with the rhythmic beats of the kompang, a “menepung tawar” blessing ceremony, and a cultural wedding procession, all of which symbolise blessings in a Malay marriage.
Jie Lin, 26, said the inspiration to incorporate Malay cultural elements into their wedding stemmed from De Yang’s family business, which employs many Malay workers.
“This event is a token of appreciation to our staff and their families, who have supported and cared for us all this time. We also wanted to embrace and respect the beauty of Malay traditions in celebrating our love,” she told Bernama.
The reception was held at Dewan Dara in Muadzam Shah, Pahang on Feb 18, with more than 800 guests from various ethnic backgrounds in attendance.
According to Jie Lin, the idea of having a Malay-themed wedding was suggested by her husband’s father and grandfather, and was fully supported by other family members.
“We were fortunate to receive help from my husband’s Malay employees, who formed a committee to ensure all preparations and the event itself went smoothly.
“They not only planned the ceremony but also provided guidance on Malay customs, explaining the significance of each tradition and how to follow them properly,” she said, adding that preparations had been underway since August.
Among the customs that left the biggest impression on her were the “menepung tawar” and “merenjis” ceremonies, which symbolise the blessings and well-wishes of elders for the newlyweds.
“It reminded us of the Chinese tea ceremony, where receiving blessings and prayers from family members is highly significant. Through this experience, we have come to understand that every Malay tradition has its own uniqueness, emphasising values such as blessings, courtesy, and family bonds,” she said.
To complete the celebration, traditional Malay dishes such as nasi briyani, ayam goreng berempah, daging gulai kawah (stewed beef curry), acar mentah (pickled vegetables), satay, cendol, and kambing golek (roast lamb) were served.
Jie Lin, an auditor by profession, wishes for their wedding ceremony to inspire others, saying: “We hope more couples will have the courage to embrace cultural diversity in their weddings.”