KUCHING: Cultural and artistic activities play an important role in strengthening community unity and preserving cultural heritage, says Datuk Lo Khere Chiang.
The Batu Kitang assemblyman said dance, as a universal language, has the ability to bring people together while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, adding that arts and culture also enriched the community’s spiritual and cultural life while fostering understanding among people from different backgrounds.
“The government will continue to encourage the growth of cultural and artistic activities because culture is an important soft power that contributes not only to community development but also to tourism and the creative economy.
“Programmes like this provide valuable opportunities for participants to improve their skills while encouraging greater public appreciation for the arts,” he said.
He said this when attending an exchange and opening ceremony organised by Persatuan Tarian Perdana Kuching with the participation of the Padawan Kuching Cultural Club Dance Group recently.
The programme brought together dance enthusiasts and performers from various groups, including participants from the association’s dance classes in the Seventh Mile and 17th Mile.
According to a press statement, the event featured performances, demonstrations and interactive sessions that allowed participants to exchange experiences and strengthen friendships.
Lo said cultural organisations had long contributed to nurturing artistic talents and preserving cultural heritage.
He commended the association for providing a platform for dancers of all ages and backgrounds to learn, develop and showcase their talents.
He also expressed appreciation to the association’s chairman Loh Yan Hua and its committee members for their dedication to promoting dance arts.
Additionally, he welcomed the participation of the Padawan Kuching Cultural Club Dance Group, describing it as a positive step towards strengthening the local dance community.
“I hope more cultural exchange programmes can be organised in the future so that different groups and organisations can learn from one another and work together to elevate the standard of arts and culture in Kuching,” he said.
