Sebelum: Crown and Currency of the Malay World | 28 Nov 2026

What can a headpiece and a humble ring of tin tell us about the Malay world?

Sebelum: Crown and Currency of the Malay World explores the material culture, ceremonial traditions and trading networks that shaped the region. Discover the forms and meanings of the destar, tanjak and tengkolok, alongside the history of tin ring currency and early trade. Together, these objects tell stories of status, identity, craftsmanship and exchange.

Event details

• Date: 28 November 2026
• Time: 2:00 PM
• Venue: COEX
• Price: RM45 per person
• Capacity: 30 pax

What to expect

Hear talks by Dr Nazirul Hazim A. Khalim of Monash University Malaysia and author Zukarnine Shah Zainal Abidin. The programme also features a mini exhibition, performances and demonstrations.

Presented as a GTLF Fringe Partner programme and a Penang Hidden Gems lecture, Sebelum invites you to look beyond familiar symbols and discover the stories, connections and traditions that came before us.