Malaysian

Refers to the cultures that flourished in the region of the modern nation of Malaysia composed of the Malay Peninsula and the eastern region of the island of Borneo. The style of art in this region is a synthesis of indigenous and external cultural influences from China, India, the Arabic world, and the West facilitated through colonization and trade. Painting and sculpture in this region rarely depict the human figure because of Islamic religious restrictions. Production in decorative arts is more extensive, featuring batik cloths and other elaborate textiles, silverware, handmade kris, wood carvings, basketwork, and other various handicrafts.