KUALA LUMPUR – Arts and cultural exchange can be a catalyst for global healing – more so at a time of rising tensions – as seen at the Malaysian Embassy in Washington earlier this week.
The “Sounds and Soul of the East Coast” event was the first in a series of thematic cultural diplomacy programmes between Malaysia and the United States, planned under the leadership of Malaysia’s Ambassador to the US Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz.
It showcased various aspects of Malaysian culture, including the Main Teri, a spiritual healing performance which combines elements of dance, music, trance and ritual to heal individuals experiencing emotional or spiritual turmoil.
“The fact that the crescendo of the performance here in Washington was a healing ceremony comes at a rather opportune moment,” Nazri said in a statement on the event issued by the Malaysian Embassy in Washington.
“We are at a time in the world when more than ever we need healing. Acts of aggression of all kinds and from all sides must cease.
“Culture plays a pivotal role in diplomacy, serving as a bridge that fosters understanding and connection between nations,” added Nazri, a former tourism and culture minister.
Kelantanese performers were chosen for the event to perform the Mak Yong theatre and Wayang Kulit show.
The embassy said these performances were significant in efforts to preserve core Malaysian cultural activities that are at risk of disappearing.
Nazri said that since Mak Yong is recognised by Unesco as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the full range of Kelantanese performances should receive similar protection to preserve them for future generations.
Also present at the event was US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink, who underscored the enduring bonds between Malaysia and the US.
“Malaysia has an important role to play across the world in increasing regional and global peace and security. The US remains committed to our long-standing relationship and friendship with Malaysia,” Kritenbrink said.
The event was part of initiatives to promote Malaysian arts, culture, and tourism, and to build momentum towards Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
It was also held to mark the recent 60th Malaysia Day and 90th Armed Forces Day, and was attended by more than 20 ambassadors and their spouses in Washington DC, alongside key military figures from various nations.
The Kelantanese arts and heritage programme in Washington was represented by Malaysian cultural arts group, Geng Wak Long, led by Kamrulbahri Hussin, and is dedicated to preserving Kelantan’s rich heritage.
The group, which has played a key role in increasing appreciation of Kelantanese arts and culture among local and international communities, includes experts from institutions like the UiTM College of Creative Arts and the National Academy of Arts and Heritage or also known as Aswara. – October 21, 2023