Hoping to learn from each other
Kota Kinabalu: State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun said Sabah’s unity and harmony is unique.
Opening the 3rd Folk Art Exhibition in conjunction with the 7th Sabah International Folklore Festival at Ming Garden’s Golden Dew Bistro, Monday, he said Sabahans are well-known for their ability to adapt with other cultures.
And that despite the various cultural backgrounds, races and beliefs, we have managed to maintain our good relations with each other, he said.
“Some even live in the same house,” he added.
This year’s Folk Art Exhibition’s theme is “Understanding Aspects of Australian Aboriginal Culture.
“We hope that we will be able to learn from each other,” added Masidi.
Throughout this one week exhibition from July 9 until July 17, people will be able to witness the basket weaving skills of three Aboriginal artists from the Koorie Heritage Trust, Melbourne Australia by the names of Treahna Hamm, Bronwyn Razem and Patricia Harrison.
Dainsing Darum (Murut Tanggala), Mainah Tuumuh (Murut Tahol) and Rembini Suanti (Dusun) are the three indigenous Sabahan weavers who are taking part.
Among activities at the art exhibition involve workshops, demonstrations and a dialogue which will involve secondary and university students as well as the public. There is also an exhibition of Folk Art paintings by local Sabahan artists.
Masidi also received a “clapstick” from Nicolas Boseley, Curator of Koorie Heritage Trust, Melbourne, Australia.
According to one of the artists Treahna Hamm, during the old days when there were no books, music and dance were among the ways of getting information/education.
“The clapstick is from Northern Australia and is an important part of the story-telling as it is the vehicle which assists in dance and music.”
Also present were General Manager of Sabah Cultural Board Datu Rosmadi Datu Sulai, Manager and Curator of Sabah Art Gallery Jennifer P. Linggi, Chairman of Sabah Cultural Board Datuk Seri Wences Angang.
Source : Daily Express
