1 – Tuku
The tuku is a ball-like metal object with a handle. After it has been heated, it is wrapped in a cloth and noni leaf, and gently rolled over the abdomen.
2 – Mengurut Badan
Translated it literally means massaging of the body. The massage is done by an experienced massuese.
3 – Barut (Wrap)
For most women, barut is the most crucial part of confinement. Barut is a tight wrap around the woman’s waist. This practice of tightly binding the tummy is called berbengkong and helps to regain the woman’s figure.
4 – Salai
Salai refers to lying on a warmed wooden apparatus, in order to keep the body warm.
5 – Air Akar Kayu
These are herbal baths and tonic drinks made from medicinal plants.
6 – Pantang Makan dan Minum
This refers to the prohibition of eating and drinking certain food items. In general, Malays believe in the avoidance of “cooling foods” and promote the consumption of “heating foods”. Some mums who have just delivered take a drink called Jamu. Jamu is believed to keep the body warm.
Other taboos of Malay confinement
Read about other Malay practices during confinement on the next page…
