Magombok: Reimagining traditional performance (ritual-theater) for heritage sustainability

Abstract

The Magombok ritual, a traditional healing practice of the Bajau Laut community in Semporna, Sabah, stands at a critical juncture. Modernization's relentless march has eroded traditional beliefs and lifestyles, placing this cultural heritage on the brink of extinction. The community finds itself torn between the ancient pagan beliefs of their ancestors and the tenets of Islam, the dominant religion, creating a complex challenge for the ritual's survival. Simultaneously, Sabah's traditional theatres grapple with their own set of problems, often confined to conceptual stages or limited to social dramas, hindering their full potential. This research delves into the possibility of transforming the Magombok ritual into a vibrant traditional theatre performance, drawing upon the concepts of liminal and liminality. Inspired by Richard Schechner's performance theory and Victor Turner's ritual theory, the study seeks to bridge the gap between ritual and theatre. By combining the four universal characteristics of performance with the four perspectives of ritual, the research aims to establish a pathway for the ritual's successful transformation into a theatrical form. This transformation is envisioned as a means of empowering the local ethnic identity, providing a platform for cultural expression and preservation. The research further proposes practical methods and processes for transforming ritual performances into theatrical productions. This integrated approach offers an alternative strategy for safeguarding and sustaining the ethnic traditional cultural heritage. Beyond mere preservation, the transformation process has the potential to shape the future of traditional Sabah theatre performances, enriching the state's artistic landscape. The theatrical adaptation of Magombok holds immense promise as a cultural tourism product, attracting visitors to experience the unique traditions of Semporna. This, in turn, can bolster the socio-economic well-being of the local ethnic group, fostering a sense of pride and cultural ownership. The transformation of Magombok into a captivating theatre performance offers a multifaceted solution, ensuring the survival of a cherished tradition while enriching the cultural and economic fabric of Sabah.

Keywords: Magombok Rituals; Heritage Preservation; Liminal; Sabah Traditional Theater