Preserving Malay Folklore Through Digital Narrative for Generation Alpha: A Systematic Literature Review

Authors

  • Nuraliya Najwa Zulkhairil Faculty of Arts and Design, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, Malaysia
  • Syafiq Abdul Samat Faculty of Arts and Design, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, Malaysia
  • Sharkawi Che Din Faculty of Arts and Design, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor Branch, Puncak Alam Campus, Malaysia https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8215-5287

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24191/idealogy.v11i2.990

Keywords:

Malaysia Folklore, Digital Narrative, Digital Storytelling, Digital Folklore, Motion Graphics

Abstract

Folklore in Malaysia is an important part of Malaysia’s cultural heritage, preserving traditional values, moral lessons and historical knowledge through the generations. But the fast pace of digital technology and the emergence of Generation Alpha (Gen Alpha) have caused a waning interest in traditional storytelling formats. The aim of this study is to explore methods of digital narrative approaches to help in preserving and revitalising Malay folklore for young audiences. Existing studies on Malay folklore, digital storytelling, digital narratives, and motion graphics were examined through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) conducted using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Relevant articles published from 2015 to 2025 were searched by Google Scholar and screened by predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings reveal that digital storytelling approaches such as motion graphics, animation, mobile games, and virtual reality have an enormous potential of increasing the level of engagement without losing the educational and cultural values of the traditional folklore stories. The review highlights several challenges in this area, such as the declining popularity of text storytelling, digital entertainment competition, and preservation of cultural authenticity in digital translation. To conclude, this research proves that the application of digital narrative methods for folklore protection becomes the link between the traditional culture and Generation Alpha’s digital orientation. 

 

Keywords: Malaysia Folklore, Digital Narrative, Digital Storytelling, Digital Folklore, Motion Graphics 

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Published

2026-09-01

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