Betitik, the traditional music of Bajau Sama in Sabah

When you hear the rhythmic music of gendang drums, gongs, bebandil (a type of gong), and kulintangan, you know something is happening in the village. Betitik is a musical ensemble played from afternoon until evening to inform the neighborhood of upcoming events such as the henna night (malam berinai), wedding ceremony (majlis persandingan), or other gatherings within the next month. Betitik, meaning "to beat," is the traditional folk music of the Bajau Sama people in Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia. The rhythm and songs of Betitik vary in terms of tempo, adapting to specific celebrations or differing by region. However, no Betitik is allowed during times of hardship or mourning in the village until the grieving period is over, typically after 40 days.