It is popular in eastern Guangdong, southern Fujian, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Cambodia.
[7] The opera also includes symbolic elements that have deep cultural significance, reflecting the values, beliefs, and shared history of the Teochew people.
During such events, the performances become offerings to ancestors and spirits, aligning with traditional Chinese beliefs about honoring one's heritage.
These ritualistic performances incorporate symbolic gestures, costumes, and even specific character archetypes that convey respect for tradition and reinforce communal bonds.
As they established communities, these cultural practices helped them connect with each other, find solace, and integrate into the multicultural environment of Malaysia.
In Malaysia, where diverse ethnic and cultural groups coexist, Teochew opera has adapted to resonate with a broader audience.
In addition, it also incorporated to portray storylines that resonate with Malaysian values or cultural narratives, making the opera relatable to audiences from different ethnic backgrounds.