KUCHING: The art of calligraphy can be extended to all levels of society, encouraging further appreciation among the community for culture and tradition passed down from generation to generation, said Datuk Hii Chang Kee.
It also fosters a deeper understanding of the artistic language shared by both Arabic and Chinese calligraphy to form a cultural bridge that leads to harmony and unity among all races in our country, said the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
“I believe that the talents and creative works of Arabic and Chinese calligraphers can be discovered and highlighted through this calligraphy programme.
“The message of unity among pluralistic communities, particularly in the state of Sarawak, can be highlighted in the eyes of entire Malaysia and at the international level in general, and the interest of foreign tourists, particularly from Peninsular Malaysia, can be attracted to promote tourism in the state of Sarawak,” Hii said.
He made the remark on Wednesday(Dec 21) at the concluding ceremony and award presentation of the National Level Arabic Calligraphy and Chinese Calligraphy Competition 2022, which was held from December 19 to 21 at the Imperial Hotel Kuching.
The Kuching-Samarahan Chinese Calligraphy Association organised the event, which was supported by the Sarawak Islamic Religion Department (JAIS) and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts.
“Through this competition, the winners will receive a total of RM58,600.00 in cash, as well as a trophy and participation certificate.
“It is a very encouraging success to highlight the talents and creative works of Arabic and Chinese calligraphers.
“In addition to the competition, I believe the calligraphy art culture can be strengthened further through the learning and observation platform formed by this calligraphy art activity,” he pointed out.
He expressed his hope that by organising this calligraphy programme, lovers of calligraphy art from all over the country will be able to travel to Kuching, Sarawak and experience for themselves the harmony of living with the plural society in Sarawak, the simplicity and passion of the local people, as well as the unique traditional culture of Sarawak’s people.
A total of 210 participants from Sabah, Melaka, Selangor, Pulau Pinang, Johor, Kedah, Perak, Pahang, Kelantan, Terengganu, Sarawak and the federal territory of Kuala Lumpur have engaged in seminars and competitions dubbed the ‘Sarawak Premier Cup’.
