SIBU: Sibu Teochew Association (STA) has been praised for not only been committed to promoting Teochew traditional culture, but also actively promoting education and caring about the growth of young people.
In giving the accolade, Bukit Assek assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek said it is a very important positive energy in the community.
“Teochew people have always attached great importance to education. This value has been passed down from generation to generation, which not only benefits the family, but also benefits the society,” he said at the STA’s cultural night staged at Chinese Pavilion, Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) held at Sibu town square on Friday.
Chieng was pleased to see that more and more young people are participating in the promotion of Teochew culture.
Whether it is gongs and drums, dance, opera, or food and language, he noted that these cultural elements are gradually rejuvenating in the hands of the younger generation.
He pointed out that if there is no participation of young people, culture will easily be lost; but with the participation of young people, it will be passed on forever.
“Teochew culture for gongs and drums are the shining pearls of their culture. With their distinct rhythm and magnificent momentum, they awaken our admiration and passion for traditional art, and also reflect the national spirit of Teochew people who are determined and hardworking and are not afraid of difficulties.
“The sound of gongs and drums knows no ethnicity, and the beauty of culture should transcend language and blood. I hope that in the future, such traditional art evenings can attract more friends from other ethnic groups to participate in them, so that they can feel the charm of Chinese culture together and let the spirit of multiculturalism grow stronger in Sibu,” Chieng added.
Earlier on, STA chairman, Su Ngio Kee pointed out that the Teochew culture of gong and drum has been passed down from generation to generation, symbolising the enthusiasm, progress, unity and friendly of Teochew people.
Stating that the road of cultural inheritance is not an easy one, he said it needs encouragement and support as it is difficult to sustain it in the long run with the enthusiasm and limited resources of Teochew people alone.
“Therefore, taking advantage of tonight’s performance, we sincerely appeal to all compatriots who love their own culture, please extend your hands of recognition and give us spiritual and financial support. Every time you support, it is a great encouragement to the inheritors, and it is creating conductive environment for our culture to take root, sprout, and flourish.
“This is the most direct and powerful guarantee for our cultural heritage in the local area,” Su further stated.
Among those present were STA honorary advisor, Chua Hiong Kee and United Chinese Association Sibu president, Lau Ing Siong.
