Bomoh
The Malay folk healer and diviner, using prayers, herbs and spirit work, consulted alongside clinics and mosques.
Also: bomoh, pawang, dukun
Bomoh is the common Malay word, mainly used in Malaysia, for a healer who is also a diviner and a handler of spirits. Bomoh use jampi, spoken formulas that blend Malay, Arabic and older elements, with herbs, water and massage. Some work in healing ceremonies such as main puteri in Kelantan, where music and trance are used. Religious authorities say some practices conflict with Islam, and Malaysia has had warnings against bomoh who call on spirits, and fraud cases. In 2014 bomoh drew international attention, and ridicule, for rituals performed publicly during the search for Malaysian Airlines flight MH370. Many Malaysians consult one for emotional and family problems as much as illness.