The Dwindling Legacy of the Gambus in Johor: A Cultural Emergency 🚨

by Dr. Raja Zulkarnain

Johor, once a proud bastion of traditional arts, is witnessing a troubling decline in its gambus tradition. Today, the number of professional gambus players in the state has dwindled to fewer than three. Moreover, the artisanal craft of gambus-making is teetering on the brink of extinction, with only one known craftsman remaining after the recent passing of two revered elders. Without apprentices to carry forward this heritage, the survival of the gambus tradition seems uncertain.

The gambus is not merely a musical instrument but a cultural artifact deeply intertwined with Malay heritage. Historically, the gambus has played a pivotal role in traditional music genres like zapin and ghazal, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. The instrument's unique sound and playing techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving a rich tapestry of musical expression. The loss of this tradition would mean losing a vital link to Johor's cultural identity. ⚠️

This cultural erosion is compounded by the lack of proactive efforts from arts and culture institutions in Johor. While gambus continues to feature in primary school ghazal clubs, what happens to these young players once they leave school? The absence of continuity programs or platforms for advanced learning and performance is stark. Additionally, there have been no significant events or initiatives focused on preserving and promoting the gambus within the state’s arts landscape. 📚🎶

The personal stories of the remaining gambus players and craftsmen highlight the urgency of this issue. The sole surviving gambus craftsman, who has dedicated his life to mastering this intricate art, finds himself without an apprentice to whom he can pass on his knowledge. Similarly, the remaining gambus players, despite their passion and dedication, face diminishing opportunities to perform and teach.

If this trajectory continues, Johor risks losing a vital part of its identity. The gambus, with its rich historical ties to Malay music traditions like zapin and ghazal, is more than just an instrument; it is a cultural symbol. Without immediate action—such as institutional support, workshops, and public engagement initiatives—this unique heritage may fade into obscurity, leaving future generations disconnected from their roots. 🏛️🌍

To reverse this trend, a multi-faceted approach is required. Establishing dedicated programs to train new gambus players and craftsmen, integrating the instrument into more cultural events, and launching public awareness campaigns can help revive interest and engagement. Collaborations with local and international cultural institutions can bring fresh perspectives and resources to this endeavor.

Let this be a call to action for Johor’s cultural stakeholders: It is time to revitalize the gambus tradition before it’s too late. 🚨🙏 -drrz

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and interpretations expressed in my writings, articles, essays, blog posts, reviews and other publications are solely my own and are based on my extensive experience as a Doctor of Creative Arts, ethnomusicologist, researcher, educator, writer, and musician. These works reflect my scholarly research, creative practice, and personal insights into the subjects discussed. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information presented, I do not claim absolute authority or infallibility. My analyses and conclusions may be subject to interpretation, and readers are encouraged to engage critically and conduct their own research where necessary. These writings are intended to foster understanding, discussion, and appreciation of the topics covered. They are not intended to cause harm, defame, or misrepresent any individual, group, culture, or institution. As an advocate for the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, I respect diverse perspectives and welcome constructive dialogue. However, I reserve the right to moderate or decline any engagement that is deemed disrespectful, harmful, or unproductive. For any further clarification, please contact me directly.