The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) identifies intangible cultural heritage as the "non-physical traditions and practices that are performed by a people". As part of a country's cultural heritage, they include celebrations, festivals, performances, oral traditions, music, and the making of handicrafts. The "intangible cultural heritage" is defined by the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, drafted in 2003 and took effect in 2006. Inscription of new heritage elements on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists is determined by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, an organisation established by the convention.

Malaysia ratified the convention on 27 July 2013.

Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Representative List Name Image Year No. Description Mak Yong theatre 2008 00167 Mak yong is a traditional form of dance-drama from northern Malaysia, particularly the state of Kelantan. Dondang Sayang 2018 01410 Dondang Sayang is a traditional form of entertainment where singers exchange extemporaneous Malay poetry, in a lighthearted and sometimes humorous style. Silat 2019 01504 Silat is a class of martial arts. Ong Chun/Wangchuan/Wangkang ceremony, rituals and related practices for maintaining the sustainable connection between man and the ocean + 2020 01608 Songket 2021 01505 Songket is a tenun fabric that belongs to the brocade family of textiles. It is hand-woven in silk or cotton, and intricately patterned with gold or silver threads. Breakfast culture in Malaysia: dining experience in a multi-ethnic society 2024 02113 Breakfast plays an important role in Malaysia. It is centred on traditional foods such as Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai, drinks as Teh Tarik, and spending time together. Kebaya: knowledge, skills, traditions and practices + 2024 02090 A kebaya is an upper garment opened at the front and made from lightweight fabrics traditionally worn by women in Southeast Asia. Pantun + 2025 02274 Pantun is a Malayic oral poetic form used to express intricate ideas and emotions.

Urgent Safeguarding List Name Image Year No. Description Mek Mulung 2023 01610 Mek Mulung is a traditional theatre that is unique to the northwest state of Kedah.

See also List of World Heritage Sites in Malaysia

Notes

References

External links UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: Official site UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Malaysia: Official site