It is believed that Muslim missionaries of the Middle East

namely Persia and Arabia introduced the dance to Malaya

during the fifteenth century.
The dance was originally performed by males only however it
is also performed by female dancers these days.
The simple version of the Zapin is performed to the rhythm
&1234 and the foot is extended out to the side on the last
count. It can be done on the spot, traveling forwards and
backwards or diagonally in the basic form.
The carriage of the dancers is quite erect and dignified.

The music for Zapin comes from an ensemble of traditional

instruments which include the lute (gambus), gypsy-type
bongos (marwas) and the violin.
There are no hard and fast rules as to the number of
dancers that perform. However because of the very
interactive nature of this dance, it is usually performed in
pairs.

The dancers can then play with each other, teasing, challenging and enjoying each
others company. It is most popular in Johor.
There are numerous forms of Zapin dances and it varies from state to state. One of
the most popular forms and certainly more evolved and intricate is the Zapin Tenglu
from the town of Mersing. Said to be inspired by the ebb and flow of the tide and the
lives of fishermen, the dance has many unexpected movements like a rotation of
the body from the waist followed by a sudden accented, sharp and held movement
of the arms and shoulders. It is said that these movements are derived from the
feeling of being tossed around in a fishing boat and having to catch yourself before
you are thrown overboard.
Another popular Zapin dance is the Zapin Pekajang.