Dancing across cultures for harmony, animal welfare

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Three Malaysian dance companies are collaborating on *Genggaman*, a multi-disciplinary performance blending Indian, Malay, and Chinese dance traditions, to be staged in Kuala Lumpur and Negri Sembilan in October. The production supports animal welfare by donating part of its proceeds to a local trap-neuter-vaccinate-return/rehome-manage program for stray dogs and cats in Petaling Jaya.

Three Malaysian dance companies are collaborating on a multi-disciplinary performance aimed at celebrating cultural diversity while supporting animal welfare initiatives. The production, titled *Genggaman*, is set to be staged at Sutra House in Kuala Lumpur from October 23 to 25, with a subsequent performance scheduled for October 31 at Kompleks JKKN Seremban in Negri Sembilan.

*Genggaman* showcases a blend of artistic traditions, drawing from Indian classical dance, Malay traditional and contemporary performing arts, and Chinese-influenced contemporary dance. The show is co-choreographed by Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Anthony Meh, Aman Yap, and Zaridah Abdul Mallik, representing the three collaborating companies: Sutra Foundation, Dua Space Dance Theatre, and DiDance.

According to Ramli Ibrahim, the production aims to highlight Malaysia’s cultural mosaic by fostering creative dialogue between distinct art forms, each of which preserves its unique character and integrity. “Art is able to unite people and has a way of bringing people together,” Ramli said.

Sutra Foundation will present a thilana, a rhythmic dance piece, accompanied by live saxophone music. Dua Space Dance Theatre, led by Anthony Meh and Aman Yap, will perform a contemporary Chinese dance segment. Zaridah Abdul Mallik’s DiDance will contribute a Malay dance segment that includes a tribute to her late friend Farid Ali, also known as Mr Gambus.

Beyond its artistic mission, *Genggaman* is connected to animal welfare efforts. Ramli explained that part of the proceeds from the performances will support the trap-neuter-vaccinate-return/rehome-manage (TNVRM) project in Sections 16 and 17 of Petaling Jaya, Selangor. This initiative promotes a humane and sustainable approach to managing stray dogs and cats, addressing concerns about animal rights and welfare.

Ramli emphasized the need for increased compassion towards stray animals, particularly in light of local councils’ budgetary measures for capturing stray animals.

Tickets and performance details are available through Sutra Foundation at 019-333 1092.

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