KUALA LUMPUR: The Best of ASEAN Performing Arts (BoAPA) 2025 opened at Auditorium Seri Angkasa, Angkasapuri on Saturday, marking the start of a week-long cultural exchange featuring 22 young performers from across Southeast Asia.
Representing Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, the deputy Secretary-General (Culture) Datuk Mohd Yusri Mohd Yusoff said that cultural expression continues to play a vital role in strengthening unity and reconciliation.
“Cultural diversity, heritage and artistic expression help addressing the root causes of conflict and foster healing and reconciliation, especially at the community and grassroots level.
“Through initiatives such as BoAPA, cultural legacies can be safeguarded and continue to evolve particularly amongst children and youth,” he said in his opening remarks.
Mohd Yusri added that cultural tourism, particularly the fast-growing concert and music tourism segment has become one of Malaysia’s key attraction drivers, drawing audiences from around the region.
Organised by the MOTAC alongside Jabatan Penyiaran Malaysia (RTM) and Pertubuhan Anak Seni Malaysia (PASMA), the event aims to nurture creative talent, deepen appreciation of ASEAN heritage and strengthen regional identity among youth.
The six-day programme includes workshops in traditional and contemporary performing arts, culminating in a showcase highlighting shared cultural values.
As the finale, participants are set to perform at the 47th ASEAN Summit Gala Dinner in a collaborative piece symbolising ASEAN unity and friendship.
MOTAC said the initiative supports Malaysia’s role under the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Pillar and aligns with Malaysia MADANI’s vision to elevate arts, culture and heritage on the global stage.
