Abstract
ABSTRACT This article discusses the efforts of constructing the narrative of continuity that connects the Indonesian province of Riau Islands with the former Malay kingdoms, Riau-Lingga-Johor-Pahang, and supports the claims to be the heir of the originator of Malay civilisation. Focusing on the case of the revived mak yong theatre, I look at the roles of speeches, writings, stage performances, historic sites, and museum displays that serve as the very fabric of the narrative construction called traditionalisation. I argue that traditionalisation aims to authenticate mak yong as an iconic and official representation of Malay inheritance, with impact on its presentation today, justifying the claim and locating the Riau Islands in a prestigious position in the cultural configurations in Indonesia and the Malay world.
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