Who is Pak Romli Mahamud and what is his significance?

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Pak Romli Mahamud is the last known master of Awang Batil, a traditional Perlis storytelling art form.

Pak Romli Mahamud, aged 68, holds the distinction of being the final practitioner of Awang Batil, a unique form of musical storytelling indigenous to Perlis, Malaysia. His lineage is deeply connected to this tradition, as his late father, Mahamud Awang Bin Wahid, was also a renowned storyteller who passed down his 'batil' to Pak Romli, enabling him to carry forward their family legacy. Pak Romli is scheduled to perform at the Esplanade for the Pesta Raya festival from May 19 to 21, showcasing three distinct narratives: 'Awang Akar Larak', 'Awang Nakal', and 'Awang Parang Besar'.
The Art of Awang Batil

Awang Batil is characterized by a solo performer who narrates folk tales while simultaneously playing a variety of musical instruments, including the violin, serunai, and rebana, accompanied by the rhythmic beating of a 'batil', which is essentially a water-holding bowl or pot. The performance is further enhanced by the storyteller's use of two distinct masks, 'Hulubalang' and 'Wak Nujum', donned during specific character appearances to captivate the audience. Pak Romli delivers his performances in the northern Malay dialect, with English translations made accessible to a wider audience through QR codes.
Historical Context of Performances

Historically, Awang Batil performances were integral to community celebrations, often taking place at weddings and other festivities. These traditional storytelling sessions were known for their extended duration, frequently lasting from nightfall until dawn, and in some instances, spanning two to five days. Such prolonged performances were commonly observed when the Awang Batil was invited to entertain guests following the rice harvest season, underscoring the deep cultural roots and communal significance of this art form.
Pak Romli's Familial Legacy

The continuation of Awang Batil is a significant familial endeavour for Pak Romli Mahamud. He inherits a rich tradition from his father, Mahamud Awang Bin Wahid, a celebrated storyteller from Kampung Pokok Sena in Chuping, Perlis. The passing down of the 'batil' from father to son signifies not just the transfer of an object, but the entrustment of a cultural heritage and the responsibility to preserve and present this intricate art form to new generations.

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Who is Pak Romli Mahamud and what is his significance?

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