Capitalizing on Masculinity

The Semai Indigenous concept of the ideal man has become entangled with constructions of masculinity steered by Malaysia’s processes of development, modernization, and colonialism. These hegemonic forces have contributed to the disempowerment of Semai men, evident in the erosion of their agency in determining traditional livelihoods, transmitting cultural knowledge, and exercising community leadership. They have also diminished the role of Semai men as custodians of forest knowledge, disrupting their connection to Indigenous wisdom, environmental stewardship, and family harmony. This article examines how Semai storytellers revalorize Semai masculinity and subvert hegemonic norms through the character of Bah Luj, a male hero prominently featured in Semai folktales. The study employs a qualitative methodology comprising a literature review, content analysis of four Semai folktales, interviews, and a reflexive ethnographic approach. I argue that Semai storytellers revalorize Semai masculinity by emphasizing gender roles, cognitive abilities, and supernatural powers

Agency (philosophy) · Folklore · Hegemonic masculinity · Hegemony · HERO · Indigenous · Masculinity · Storytelling · Asian Studies and History · Folklore, Mythology, and Literature Studies · Gender Roles and Identity Studies