FTLA Strengthens New Generation Of Sarawak's Cultural Heritage Torchbearers
KOTA SAMARAHAN: The 36th Festival Tari & Lagu Melayu Asli (FTLA) continues to serve as a strategic platform for the Sarawak Government in strengthening the sustainability of cultural heritage through the active involvement of young people as torchbearers of the state's traditional arts.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the encouraging participation of youth in the traditional Malay song and traditional dance competitions proves that Sarawak's artistic heritage continues to find a place among the younger generation.
He said this reflects the success of the Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) in cultivating youth interest in local arts and culture, thereby ensuring the state's cultural treasures continue to be preserved and passed down.
"Competitions like these have succeeded in drawing the interest of young people. It proves that the younger generation is not only drawn to modern entertainment, but also appreciates traditional songs and dances as heritage that must be preserved," he said.
He was speaking to reporters at the 36th FTLA Southern Zone level at DeTAR Putra, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), on Saturday.
He said the FTLA, held annually, is not merely a competition platform but also serves as a medium for talent development and an ongoing effort to strengthen Sarawak's cultural identity through the participation of the younger generation.
Organised by the MSS, the festival brings together artists from across the state through three zones – North, Central and South – to broaden community participation in the arts before winners compete at the state-level final.
Besides the Iban-themed dance and Sarawak Traditional Malay Song competitions, the festival also featured a Traditional Malay Singing Workshop and the Ngelakar Seni Programme, which serve as platforms for knowledge-sharing, talent development and appreciation of traditional arts.
The organisation of FTLA is in line with efforts to strengthen the preservation of cultural heritage, encourage community participation in artistic activities, and reinforce Sarawak's cultural identity through the performing arts. -UKASnews
Prepared by: Lonney Jinab
Photos: Lonney Jinab
Translator: Uilson Ng
