Sports and recreation/ Contents

Congkak

Lee Yee Dian

The ancient game of mancala, likely brought by merchants to the Malay Peninsula during the 16th century, has evolved into congkak, a local variant of the game and a familiar sight in the traditional Malay kampong. Playing congkak requires a high level of concentration, mathematical acumen, perseverance and a little luck. The game remains an enduring form of recreation for Malaysians of all ages and ethnicities.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Ancient origins
  • A local tradition
039_congkak

Traditional congkak board of unknown antiquity which features 12 holes, as opposed to the more popular 16-hole version, from the collection of Muzium Negara Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.