Pulut Kuning in Malay society: The beliefs and practices then and now

• Published in: Asian Social Science
• Main Author: Mat Noor S.; Aisyah Zakaria N.; Mohd Shahril N.; Abd Hadi H.; Mohd Zahari M.S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84877975336&doi=10.5539%2fass.v9n7p29&partnerID=40&md5=1a0f5f0fdaf26c82ed8a9964f9f52092

Traditional foods are proven to be part of the ethnic, society and country's heritage. To the Malays, Pulut Kuning is one of the traditional foods that are often prepared, practiced and associated with symbolism, custom and ritual for special occasions. The impact of modernization through various dimensions like education and lifestyles however are believed to have an impact to the beliefs and practices of Pulut Kuning in Malay feasts. This study qualitatively explains the impact of modernization (education, lifestyles) to the beliefs of Pulut Kuning as symbolism, ritual, custom and their level practices among the young generations. The understanding and the increasing knowledge on the Islamic teaching plays a major role in reducing the practices or the uses of Pulut Kuning in the superstitious and occult activities. Modernization through education and lifestyle on the other hand do not totally pushed away the norm or the beliefs and the practices of Pulut Kuning as symbol of gratitude's, appreciation, thankful in Malay occasions and it is still relevant despite slightly lessening the practices among the young generation.