The "Cukur Jambul" : A Malay Tradition

The Cukur Jambul (also known in the northern peninsula as berendoi) is the baby's very first haircut, done in accordance with Malay tradition. It is an important rite of passage and is very much seen as an occasion for the extended familyto come together, renew bonds and welcome the new baby into the clan.In Malaysia, other ethnic communities also have their own unique hair tonsuring ceremonies, according to their origin, religion and traditions. In the Indian Hindu community, for example, baby's hair is tonsured in the mundan ceremony,which is very much seen as a purification ritual. Some ethnic Chinese parents also shave the baby's head after the first full month of life (mun  yuet)in the belief that “womb hair” should be removed and the hope that the new hair will grow out to be thick and lustrous.

For the Malays ,the cukur jambul ceremony generally coincides with the end of the confinement period observed by the new mother, which lasts between 40 and 44 days,  although it is not peculiar to have it at a later date. In a traditional cukur jambul ceremony, the baby's hair is tonsured or snipped off with a pair of scissors and then ultimately buried in the ground. Closest and dearest family members and friends are invited to witness the event.

 Another important element is the dulang or ceremonial tray which holds the scissors and the young coconut (or bowl of water). Often, these are accompanied by daun kunyit and bunga rampai (fragrant bouquet which usually includes pandan leaves, jasmine and frangipani), and perhaps some honey and dates.

Source:coochinos.com;zakuanhassan.wordpress.com;Poetry of Flowers