Culture helps one think out of the box
-by MASAMI MUSTAZA -

MANY have this perception that it’s not cool to venture into arts and culture ‘because it has no future’.

That, says the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage, is not true and it is hitting the road to debunk this myth.

It has organised a programme called Tunas Budaya Pemangkin Kesenian to achieve that objective.

The programme is jointly organised by the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage’s Arts and Culture Department with the Ministry of Education.

Considering the problem that children nowadays are more into modern, technology-related pastimes — being glued to the Cartoon Network or playing non-stop on their PS2 consoles — the department’s move has met with praise and success.

“We are trying to change the perception of the public towards the importance of arts and culture,” said Arts and Culture Department assistant director Mohd Zin Mohd Shahid.

“Many people have the impression that there is no future for people in this field and that it is not as important as other areas such as technology or medicine.”

Mohd Zin points out that arts and culture can also bring success and wealth if one has determination and is able to think out of the box.

The Ministry has a financial aid programme for individuals and societies specialising in arts and culture.

There are also aid programmes for companies dealing in the arts and crafts industry.

“Look at our artistes and fashion designers. They’re doing well and making a good name for themselves,” he added.

“Who says that arts and culture are only suited as pastime activities? Being involved in arts and culture adds character to an individual and shows that you’re proud of your heritage.”

With the mission of cultivating the public’s interest in arts and culture, the programme focuses on primary school children with the hope that they will grow up into adults with a love for the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The programme was first executed in 2002 with the formation of cultural clubs in selected schools nationwide.

It has been a huge success in drawing its target audience.

As of June 2006, the estimated number of participants had risen from 470 students in 2002 to 14,170 students in 494 schools. More schools have asked to join the programme.

The programme’s module comprises traditional dancing, theatre, music and top spinning with each club concentrating on only one subject.

The programme culminates in performances by members of the clubs called Kelab Tunas Budaya at the annual Festival Kesenian Kanak-Kanak Malaysia. This year’s festival will take place in Kuantan, Pahang, from Nov 28 to Dec 2.

Besides the festival, talented participants may also be chosen to take part in special programmes organised by the department.