SeniKome Peng Heng: East Coast Arts & Culture @ Resorts World Genting
Genting is usually all about theme parks and malls, so SeniKome Peng Heng came as a pleasant surprise. This East Coast Arts and Cultural Centre at Resorts World Genting showcases the crafts, music and food of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan. In 2017 it ran weekend showcases from July to September, with a different traditional art form featured each week.
Songket: The King of Malaysian Textiles
Songket is a traditional Malay brocade woven with gold and silver threads. The name comes from the Malay word “menyongket”, meaning to embroider with metallic thread. Seeing the shimmering patterns up close, it is easy to understand why it is called the “King of Malaysian Textiles”.
Batik Making
Batik is the signature handicraft of the East Coast. Wax is applied to white cotton to block out areas before the cloth is dyed, building up colourful patterns layer by layer. Watching the artisans work by hand gave me a new appreciation for every batik shirt I have seen.
Gamelan and Congkak
Pahang was the first Malay state to introduce gamelan as palace ensemble music in the early 19th century, and its soft, dreamy sound suits the misty Genting air. There is also congkak, a traditional Malay board game with simple rules that is fun for both kids and adults.
Nasi Kerabu to End the Visit
After touring the centre, I tucked into East Coast food. The Nasi Kerabu was really authentic, with its vivid blue rice and a medley of aromatic herbs. It is a great stop if you want a break from the casino crowds and a taste of Malaysian culture.
Opening hours (at time of visit): 8.30am to 5.30pm daily
Location: Resorts World Genting, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang