KEMANUSIAAN Vol. 23, Supp. 1, (2016), 61–78 © Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia, 2016 Mek Mulong: Kedah's Unique Folk Performance 1 MOHAMAD LUTHFI ABDUL RAHMAN Universiti Sains Malaysia luthfi@usm.my Abstract. The essay considers a type of Malay folklore found in the state of Kedah, the mek mulong, which can be categorised as a folk performance. The authentic mek mulong still thrives in Kampung Baru Wang Tepus in Jitra. The essay examines mek mulong as the Kedah Malays' traditional heritage. It analyses the uniqueness of this performance. The essay is based on both Western and local studies on folk performances notably its healing ritual which is not often shown to the public. So far there has been no substantive study on mek mulong while most of the earlier writings on mek mulong are brief, descriptive documentation type of studies. A more in-depth analysis aims to uncover its special features and the uniqueness of this traditional folk performance. In a way the essay is a contribution towards the preservation of folk traditions as without any form of dynamic activism, such folk performances are threatened with extinction. Keywords and phrases: mek mulong, folk performance, Malay folklore, Kedah, heritage Introduction Nearly all the Malay communities of Peninsular Malaysia have their distinctive folk performances that are part of the local oral tradition. The pride of each community is centred on its traditions that were handed down from one generation to another and on the uniqueness of its folk performances, which are different from those of other states. The people of Kelantan are proud of their mak yong and menora while those of Terengganu take pride in their ulik mayang (see Mohamed Ghouse Nasarudin 2000). In Sarawak, the Ibans are well known for their ngajat dance. Sabah too is equally well known for its sumazau and many other traditional performances. All these performing traditions are practiced by individual communities without any imitation or influence from folk performances of the other states. Hence, the locally owned or as Dundes (1965) terms it, "locally recognised" traditions are bound intimately to its native spirit and origins. However, there is very little discussion on traditional Kedah folk performance. Very seldom one could find writings or studies particularly on Kedah oral traditions. Yet Kedah has its own folk tradition, in the form of a traditional performance known as mek mulong. Mek mulong is categorised as "folklore"