Beats that bring a nation together
Traditional drum performances can foster unity, respect and understanding
KANGAR: Traditional drum performances of various races can act as a powerful vehicle to foster unity within Malaysia’s diverse community, says the Perlis National department for Culture and Arts.
Its director Norazlin Nordin said integrating Malay, Chinese, Indian and Siamese drumming elements into performing arts promotes mutual respect and understanding.
“These multi-ethnic drumming performances exemplify Malaysia’s spirit of racial unity and encourage people to appreciate the harmony and stability of our nation,” she told Bernama recently.
Norazlin noted that past events, which combined different drumming styles into special performances, received enthusiastic response and highlighted the importance of celebrating Malaysia’s diverse artistic heritage.
Such performances offer drummers the chance to learn from one another and deepen their appreciation of the country’s diverse heritage arts, each with its unique attributes and traditions, she added.
“To maintain these enriching drumming performances, the department frequently collaborates with non-governmental organisations and provides our department’s auditorium as a practice venue,” said Norazlin.
Meanwhile, Hadrah Sri Pauh group leader Bakar Muhammad, 75, shared that the integration of various ethnic drumming styles has allowed him and his group to gain a deeper understanding of other cultures in the country.
“These performances bring together different races, and we have had the opportunity to learn about Chinese, Indian and Siamese cultures, just as they learn about ours, “he said.
Echoing this sentiment, yeoh Soon Hui, 24, a representative of the Behor Temak lion dance Association, said collaborating on drum performances alongside lion dances has been a valuable opportunity to forge friendships across different races while exploring diverse artistic traditions.
“I am thrilled by this chance to engage with others and learn about Malay and Siamese drumming techniques.
“Participating in a performance organised by the department allowed us to connect with new friends and gain insights into various art forms,” yeoh said.
K. Mahendran, 32, from the Kedah/perlis Indian drum Arts Association, said such collaborative drumming performances foster a sense of equality and belonging among different races.
“Performing with people from different backgrounds reinforces our unity as Malaysians and the feeling of being one family. These performances demonstrate that despite our differences, we can come together and harmonise,” he said.
Sharawie Jom, 20, from the Perlis Siam Cultural Association, said drumming events offer valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and appreciation.
“These joint drum performances allow us to better understand each other’s heritage and arts. We hope that similar programmes will continue in the future,” he said.