{
  "id": 15004872,
  "title": "Forgotten tradition of shadow puppetry returns to Cocos Islands",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/forgotten-tradition-of-shadow-puppetry-returns-to-cocos-islands",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-16T17:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-17/forgotten-tradition-of-shadow-puppetry-returns-cocos-isalnd/107247234"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A long-forgotten tradition of shadow puppetry, known as wayang kulit, has returned to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands after nearly eight decades. The islands, located in the Indian Ocean, were a former home for Javanese laborers in the 19th century who introduced the art form. Master puppeteer Nek Ichang performed wayang kulit on the islands from the 1920s until his death in 1949, but the tradition was forgotten following his passing. Recently, Javanese master puppeteer Sumardi returned to the islands to reignite the art form, captivating the island's residents and sparking conversations among the community. The tradition, which dates back over a thousand years and has been recognized by UNESCO, involved intricate puppet manipulation and storytelling to convey profound narratives. Today, only a handful of dalangs, or puppeteers, continue to perform this ancient art. Sumardi's visit, organized by the local shire and Cultural Infusion, reignited the connection between the Cocos Islanders and their cultural heritage, while also offering younger generations a chance to learn about their island's unique history.",
  "summary": "Almost 80 years after the last performance on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, shadow puppetry makes a comeback.",
  "key_points": [
    "Wayang kulit tradition returns to Cocos Islands after 80 years",
    "Javanese master puppeteer Sumardi reignites art form",
    "UNESCO-recognized tradition involves intricate storytelling"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}