Breakdancing and B-Boy Groups

April 2, 2011 at 12:00 pm

It is undeniable that Malaysia has always been influenced by other major civilisations. Its location between East and West has always made assimilation of cultures inevitable. What was once at the fringe of Malaysian society in ancient times is now regarded as something that is uniquely Malaysian. Among the more famous of these are the Peranakan Chinese of Malacca, the eclectic architectural designs of the shophouses in Georgetown and Malaysian fusion cuisine, including the Hainanese Chicken Chop.

So while it may seem a bit odd to read that Muar, a city in Johor had just recently organised the second International Breakdance competition, we would do well to remember Malaysia’s knack at cultural assimilation. We have often bemoaned that the younger generation has forgotten their roots, and more often than not, we see many traditional artforms and crafts fall by the wayside, abandoned for more modern pursuits. Perhaps the only thing the younger generation are guilty of are being true to the spirit of our forefathers centuries ago when they embraced new ideas and ways from a foreign land. Now wouldn’t that be an interesting thought?

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Thousands thronged Jalan Sayang in Muar recently to witness the second International Breakdance competition.

“Back to Street Battle Two” was organised by the Bentayan Village coordinating committee, Muar Municipal Council, Muar police, Muar Rhythm Yard Streetdance Academy and Nian Shao Qing Youth Organisation.

Competition committee chairman Chris Lee Ching Yong, who is also the special officer appointed by Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman, said the occasion was boosted by the appearance of the Supermoon, which light enabled the spectators to enjoy a clearer view of the tournament.

The Supermoon, or the perigee moon, occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth.

The competition drew 80 teams from 14 countries, compared with only 38 teams last year.

This year’s three female teams were from Malacca, Pahang and Negri Sembilan.

Lee said the foreign participants were from the United States, United Kingdom, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Australia, Hong Kong, Denmark, Russia, Canada and China.

The United States and South Korea emerged joint champions to share the US00 (approximately RM1,500) prize money.

Last year, Singapore’s three-member team won the championship and went home richer by US00 (approximately RM2,480).

Lee said for many people, breakdance was a Western practice.

“However, to the youth, it is a global dance.

“Both parents and the government need to recognise the needs and interests of the younger generation.

“They need our attention.

“Our thinking has to change if we want to understand them better.”

He said youths should move forward together for global development and peace.

Source: New Straits Times

Photo (c) Abulic Monkey