pelamin

Pelamin is a decorated dais or stage used in Malay weddings to display the bride and groom during the reception. It originated in Malay courtly customs and has become a common feature in weddings across Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Singapore. The pelamin serves as the ceremonial focal point where the couple sits during the bersanding ceremony, an event in which they appear before guests, receive blessings, and are presented for photographs. It is often the centerpiece of the reception, with the backdrop framing the couple and the audience.

Design and decoration of the pelamin vary by region and era but typically include a raised platform, a canopy or arch, draped fabrics, ornate upholstery, and floral arrangements. Materials range from wood and bamboo to metal, with decorative elements such as curtains, lights, cushions, and sometimes gold-painted details. Fresh flowers and artificial florals are common, and the overall color palette ranges from traditional gold and white to vibrant hues that match the wedding theme.

Construction and setup are usually handled by event teams or family members and installed in ceremony or reception spaces—indoors or in open halls, courtyards, or gardens. After the ceremony, the pelamin is often retained as part of the décor for guests’ viewing and photography, and sometimes repurposed or dismantled after the event. The pelamin thus functions as both a ceremonial stage and a visual centerpiece within Malay wedding traditions.