KUCHING: Young Sarawakians gathered at the Creative Heritage Innovation Centre, Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), here for a workshop on ‘Tandak Melayu Sarawak’ on Saturday.
The workshop aimed to nurture greater interest in the traditional art form among the younger generation.
The workshop was organised by Kelab Prodigi Kenyalang Kuching (Kenyalang Prodigy) as part of Projek Kenyalang Bersaok, a youth-focused cultural initiative aimed at creating a platform for young people to learn, appreciate and participate in Sarawak’s traditional Malay arts.
The workshop introduced participants to the movements, rhythm and techniques of ‘tandak,’ giving them an opportunity to experience the traditional dance through practical sessions and guidance.
Kenyalang Prodigy president Muhammad Nur Fawwiz Bolkiah said the initiative was intended to encourage young people to develop an interest in Sarawak Malay cultural heritage while providing them with a platform to explore their talents.
“Exposing the younger generation to traditional arts through active participation is important in ensuring such heritage continues to be appreciated and preserved,” he said.
Projek Kenyalang Bersaok comprises two separate programmes — the Tandak Melayu Sarawak Workshop held on Saturday and the Kenyalang Bersaok Tandak Melayu Sarawak Competition scheduled for Sept 5 at Wisma SABATI here.
The upcoming competition will provide a platform for youth to showcase their ‘tandak’ skills and further strengthen their engagement with the traditional art form.
It will also feature participation from youth from Sarawak, Brunei and Indonesia, adding a regional dimension to the cultural initiative.
Through the two programmes, Kenyalang Prodigy aims to encourage greater youth participation in traditional arts while strengthening appreciation for Sarawak’s cultural identity.
