PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

Kelantan shadow puppetry represents a quintessential form of Malaysian traditional theatre, while the Daoqing shadow puppetry of Huan County exemplifies China’s commitment to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. This study employs an ethnomusicological framework, integrating literature review, case studies, interviews, and participant observation to examine and compare the two traditions in terms of musical structure, puppet design, performance style, narrative content, and accompanying instruments. By exploring their artistic and cultural dimensions, this research highlights both shared features and distinctive characteristics. The findings aim to contribute to global comparative studies of shadow puppetry and foster deeper intercultural dialogue, thereby promoting the preservation and sustainable development of these performing arts.