Sarawakian professional dancer and choreographer Munirih Jebeni's journey with the sape began during her dance studies at the National Academy of Arts, Culture, and Heritage (Aswara) in Kuala Lumpur, where she discovered a deep passion for the traditional instrument that transformed her life.
She has now embraced the role of sape player, bringing Sarawak's traditional instrument to global audiences - a passion she first discovered during her final-year dance project in 2012.
“For my project, I chose to showcase four traditional dances from Sarawak’s culture, including the Orang Ulu dance, which features the sape as its musical accompaniment,” said Munirih, 38, who is of Dayak Laut heritage.
"Each night, I would immerse myself in the sape's melodies, striving to deeply understand and master them before translating them into my dance," she added.
Captivated by the enchanting melodies produced by the guitar-like instrument, the Kuching-born Munirih decided to delve deeper into mastering it under the guidance of Leslie Eli, the only sape player at Istana Budaya in KL.
Munirih said her passion for the sape was fuelled by both curiosity and a desire to challenge herself by mastering another art form.
"The sape is more than just a musical instrument; it carries significant historical value. In the past, it was an integral part of ritual ceremonies and healing practices, cherished for its mesmerising sounds and distinctive character.
"Learning traditional Orang Ulu songs is particularly challenging because their melodies are often quite similar, demanding a high level of focus and attention,” she explained.
Through the years, Munirih, the founder of the Anak Temuai Borneo Fusion Band, has showcased her talent at numerous local and international events, including in South-East Asia, Australia, and Zimbabwe. She also earned the Best Folklore Performance award at the World Travel Fair 2016 in Seoul, South Korea.
Munirih also expressed gratitude for the positive response to her debut song, Panchar Senaya (“reflection” or “echo”), which has resonated with listeners since its release last November.
"Every comment I’ve received mentions how the song reminds them of family love, giving them strength."
She shared that the song, produced by Ude Sitar and dedicated to her two children, Evan Kai and Eden Kai, was created after she endured a difficult period in her life.
"Motherhood has truly changed me. In the song I express the newly felt emotions of love, pride and hope. It captures the bittersweet joy of watching them grow - celebrating their journey and the ache of knowing they'll one day chart their own path.
"As I grow older, many thoughts occupy my mind. I’m not afraid of death, but I fear not creating enough memories with my children," she said.
The music video for Panchar Senaya features her husband, Fredolin Anson, their two sons, and renowned flutist Mohar Mohram.
Next month, she is scheduled to perform the sape, accompanying dancers from the Mupun Ta'uh group, as part of the Malaysia Sarong Music Run 2025 programme at KLCC on Feb 8.
"I hope more young people will learn and appreciate the sape, not just by playing it but by truly mastering its unique characteristics,” said Munirih. - Bernama
