PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

Origin myths constitute a genre of folklore that records a society's cultural legacy and is essential for delineating the historical context of a location. This study is to examine the local beliefs and views of myths in Kampung Gajah, Perak, utilising a cultural studies framework. Furthermore, it aims to investigate the function of origin myths in safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Kampung Gajah community. This study aims to investigate the beliefs and perspectives of the local population in Kampung Gajah, Perak, about origin myths using a Cultural Studies framework. A qualitative research design was employed, utilising purposive sampling to identify six informants for semi-structured interviews, supplemented with observations and document analysis. To verify the validity of the community's oral narratives, interviews were audio-recorded and analysed thematically, ensuring both depth and dependability of the data. The analysis was guided by Barker's (2003) Cultural Studies theory, which outlines five conceptual approaches to understanding the formation of culture within communities through mythic narratives. The findings suggest that the local population’s beliefs and identities are shaped by origin myths that have been preserved and transmitted orally across generations. These myths serve as historical narratives, contributing to the construction of communal identity and cultural values. This research highlights the significance of minor, often overlooked communities with strong oral traditions, offering insights into how origin myths function to preserve cultural heritage and foster a collective identity.