Animating Heritage: A Study Of Cultural Themes In Malaysian Animated Film

Abstract

Over the years, Malaysia has produced numerous animated films that integrate cultural elements into both development and production processes. Eastern animation, particularly in Malaysia, often employs visual storytelling enriched with distinctive cultural characteristics. This continuity of cultural themes, from early productions such as Hikayat Sang Kancil (1980s) to recent works like Mechamato (2022) reflects their enduring significance in shaping national animation. While previous studies have acknowledged cultural representations in Malaysian media, scholarly research focusing specifically on cultural themes in animated films remains limited in both scope and depth. This study adopts a qualitative methodology, employing indirect observation and purposive sampling of eight Malaysian animated films spanning different phases of the industry’s development. Thematic analysis was applied to identify recurring cultural elements and their narrative and visual functions. The findings reveal six key cultural elements traditional Malaysian culture, language, arts and crafts, social etiquette, traditional attire, and symbolic visual representation each illustrated through selected film examples across the four phases of Malaysian animation. These elements demonstrate not only continuity but also adaptation to contemporary animation practices. The study underscores the broader implications of embedding cultural heritage within animation, including the preservation and revitalisation of cultural identity, the enhancement of audience engagement through culturally resonant content, and the stimulation of industry innovation by merging tradition with digital technologies. For practitioners, the study recommends that animators consciously integrate cultural motifs in character and world-building, policymakers support culturally grounded productions, and educators utilise animated films as tools for cultural learning.

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