Taiping Community College, Department for Culture and Arts Perak and People of Remarkable Talent (PORT) collaborated to revive Malay traditional dances during an event held at the department’s auditorium on Wednesday, October 10.
Department director, Wan Din Wan Muhammad, said that the programme was aimed at providing an opportunity for community colleges in the country to showcase traditional Malay dances. “This is the best way to preserve Malay traditional heritage through the involvement of youths at tertiary education level. Our aim of acquiring new talents in this field has been fulfilled. The participants were very committed,” he added.
There was a total of 19 dance groups from 15 community colleges, two universities and two polytechnics. The contest was divided into two categories – traditional and contemporary.
Teluk Intan Community College won the traditional category. Runners-up were Batu Gajah Community College and Taiping Community College. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (Kolej Ibrahim Yaakob) took the contemporary category title. Runners-up were Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (Kolej Pendeta Za’Ba). Winners received cash, a trophy and a certificate each.
PORT general manager, Zamari Muhyi said that contemporary dance, which combined cultural rhythm, could go far. “Contemporary dance is normally performed abroad and it’s very popular. The combination of rhythm conveys an image and a message. The younger generation will inherit our culture and help bring it to another level,” he added.
Abdul Hamid, the chief judge, said the judges had difficulty in assessing the performers, as they were good.
Rosli Mansor
