By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Aug 4: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has requested councillors and the organising committee of the traditional oriental orchestra music programme to look into including music from other ethnicities in Sarawak next year.
Wee said this will allow Sarawak to share its traditional music with all races.
He reiterated traditional music should be preserved as it reflects their roots.
“It is easy to communicate and let other races learn our culture through music,” he told reporters after officiating at the Traditional Oriental Music (TOM) 2024 event at MBKS Auditorium here today.
Wee revealed up till now, the organising committee of TOM has held 20 traditional Chinese music events and attracted music lovers.
“Since Sarawak has so many ethnic groups, MBKS councillors and the organising committee could invite other races, even minority Indians who live here, to join the event.”
He added that people of all ages, religions and races come together for music sessions.
“It will be a melting pot of people of all races.”
Wee said starting next year, he hoped other races would be involved and promote their traditional music to create a venue for the continuity of traditional music.
“Through this, we can have a traditional music festival, and MBKS will help showcase. I believe it is a good thing.”
Wee suggested that musicians could use traditional instruments to play modern music to increase their reach to suit all occasions.
“I am sure with this type of interaction, people of all races could come together for food, music, and folk dance festivals. These events could bring people together by making our city a harmonious city,” he said.
Deputy MBKS Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili, Organising Chairman of the Traditional Orchestra Oriental Music event Cr Bong Siak Peng and Oriental Traditional Orchestra President Foo Shau Lung were also present. — DayakDaily
