Photography

Celebrating Japanese Culture in Malaysia: Portraits from 47th Bon Odori

20 Aug 2023 − 4 min read

An attendee of the 47th Bon Odori donning a colorful kimono and dance parasol with fringes.

The first group of Japanese came into the area now known as Malaysia in the 19th century, primarily as traders and those seeking opportunities in the burgeoning economic landscape of British Malaya. Over time, small communities formed, and there was a gradual exchange of culture and commerce. However, the budding relationship frayed during the brutal invasion of the Malaya Peninsula by Imperial Japan in WW2. Now, close to eight decades after WW2, old wounds have healed; and there's a thriving population of Japanese in Malaysia, including expats and retirees. Every year, this blossoming relationship between both countries is highlighted in Bon Odori, a celebration of Japanese Culture in Malaysia.

Last year, I attended Bon Odori for the first time and was fascinated by the colourful yukatas, a type of kimono made from a single layer of cotton fabric. This year marked the 47th Bon Odori, and I returned with a Sony A7IV and a FE 50mm f1.4 GM lens. Here are some of the vibrant portraits I captured.

One of the highlights of the event is the open tent food stalls selling delicacies from different cultures, like this tanghulu, a Chinese snack. — One of the highlights of the event is the open tent food stalls selling delicacies from different cultures, like this tanghulu, a Chinese snack of fruits dipped in sugar coating.

ILCE-7M4 f/1.4 1/1600s ISO 100 50 mm

This lady's attire of hijab and yukata is a fusion of multiple cultures. Such delightful blends of traditions and diversity can be found throughout the event.

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A colourful yukata complemented by a pink obi belt. The plastic hand fan she carries is a keepsake handed out to every participant at the entrance.

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Her yukata is a blend of rich vivid colours.

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Traditional kimonos paired with a touch of modern footwear – crocs and sneakers. Behind them, the main dance stage stands, around which we danced several times that evening.

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A marriage of brilliant colours paired with a unique pose and fabric hand fan.

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The harmony of classic kimono seamlessly paired with pristine tabi socks and wooden geta. Tabi, a form of split-toe sock, and geta, elevated wooden sandals, are both rooted deeply in Japan's rich history.

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In a crowd of diverse attire, her vivid red kimono peppered with matching shades of white and accented by modern sneakers stood out. The red fabric hand fan and a uniquely designed obi belt—unlike any other I spotted at the event—added to the ensemble's allure.

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Two friends in visually similar colours of yukatas but divergent footwear.

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Another fusion of multiple cultures but this time with a decorated hijab and what looks like an apple tanghulu.

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I was drawn to this attended by the unique combination of her attire and her parasol whose tips were adorned with thin, translucent white fabrics that gracefully swayed to the rhythm of the breeze.

ILCE-7M4 f/1.4 1/2000s ISO 100 50 mm

On the train ride home, I reflected on an intriguing experience from the event. Initially, I approached attendees whose attires I admired with, "Hi, do you mind if I take a picture?". Understandably, out of six requests, only one hesitantly agreed. Then, recalling the "Liking" principle from Robert Cialdini's "Influence", I changed my approach: "Hi, I like your outfit. Do you mind if I take a picture?" The change was remarkable! Out of the 25 attendees I approached this way, only one declined, while 24 happily obliged. By merely expressing my appreciation for their outfits, I not only captured beautiful portraits but also fostered memorable interactions.