KOTA SAMARAHAN: A cultural dialogue session brought together scholars, artists and the public to discuss preserving traditional arts amid globalisation.
The ‘Ngelakar Seni’ talk, organised by the Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) as part of the Southern Zone leg of the 2026 Native Dance and Song Festival (FTLA), was held at DeTAR Putra, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) here today.
Themed ‘Iban Customs and Heritage: A Discourse on Tradition in Performing Arts in the Era of Globalisation’, the session explored how traditional customs, culture and performing arts can stay relevant and be passed down to future generations.
Moderated by Mohd Rezza Ali, the panel featured MSS acting deputy chief executive officer (arts and culture) Easter Melebeh, UNIMAS lecturer Prof Dr Noria Tugang, and cultural educator and activist Mabong Unggang.
According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), the panellists spoke from artistic, academic and cultural perspectives during the session.
“They stressed the need for closer cooperation between institutions, artists and communities to document, preserve and strengthen the region’s cultural heritage as times change.
“As part of MSS’ touring initiative, ‘Ngelakar Seni’ aims to foster dialogue and exchange views to deepen public understanding of local arts, culture and identity, while linking artists, educational institutions and communities,” it said.
The programme is among the highlights of FTLA 2026’s Southern Zone leg in Kota Samarahan, following earlier legs in Bintulu (Northern Zone, July 3 to 5) and Sibu (Central Zone, July 17 to 18).
UKAS said FTLA is MSS’ annual event to preserve and promote multi-ethnic dance and native Malay song traditions in Sarawak, as well as a platform to discover new talent and select top performers to represent their zone at the next stage of competition.
