Masruh Siadik named National Living Heritage Figure for Isun-Isun
The 2026 honour recognises his contribution to an oral tradition practised by the Bajau Sama and Iranun communities in Kota Belud.
Traditional arts practitioner Masruh Siadik has been recognised under the Language and Literature Arts category of the National Living Heritage Figure (WAKOH) 2026 honours for preserving, developing and promoting Isun-Isun.
The Sabah National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) describes Isun-Isun as a blend of music and spoken poetry. Male and female singers trade pantun verses while a traditional violin provides accompaniment. The tradition is practised by Kota Belud’s Bajau Sama and Iranun communities.
Masruh’s role spans directing performances, organising the pantun sequence and playing violin alongside the singers. Researchers, cultural bodies such as JKKN and younger people interested in Bajau oral literature and traditional violin music also draw on his knowledge.
His work has taken him beyond Sabah. He represented the Sabah Sports and Cultural Board at Kuala Lumpur’s National Dance Festival, and Malaysia at the Culture Art and Tourism Foundation Festival in Bursa, Türkiye.
According to JKKN, Isun-Isun accompanies weddings, celebrations of childbirth and ceremonies to fulfil vows. It also features at cultural gatherings, among them Regatta Lepa and the Kota Belud Tamu Besar.
WAKOH is one of Malaysia’s highest distinctions for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Since the National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645) took effect, 27 practitioners across different ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds have received the recognition.
