By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 18: Speakers at the Merdeka Award Borneo Talk Series urged Malaysians to build cultural confidence and creative leadership as the foundation for the nation’s next chapter.
The talk was held under the theme ‘Inspired by Ancestors, Driven by Dreams: You Are the Next Story’, highlighting how nationhood is built daily through innovation and cultural vision.
Indigenous musician and songwriter Alena Murang called for a deeper and more confident understanding of Malaysia’s cultural roots.
“Our next story of nationhood should be anchored in our arts and culture. We see elements of it today, but in 20 years, I hope we will truly understand our own heritage and each other’s cultures. That is essential for peace,” she said.
Sarawak Heritage Society president and Project Director of The Ranee, Datin Rosemarie Wong, said culture can strengthen unity if Malaysia develops a shared design identity rooted in heritage.
“In handicrafts and heritage work, I hope Sarawak and Malaysia embrace a modern aesthetic that reflects our collective identity,” she said.
Malaysian textile artist Marcos Kueh urged young Malaysians to express their cultural identity with confidence.
“When we discuss decolonisation, the goal is to understand our place in the country and recognise our own value. Progress may be gradual, but it matters. In 20 years, I hope many more will contribute to this work,” he said.
Speakers stressed that creativity must drive national progress and called for stronger collaborations to support both cultural integrity and economic opportunity.
The Merdeka Award Talk Series is organised by the Merdeka Award Trust, which was founded by PETRONAS and Shell.
This year’s series, themed ‘Arts, Culture and Heritage’, celebrated how Malaysia’s identity is shaped by its rich traditions.
Held for the first time in Sarawak, the Borneo edition carried the theme ‘Inspired by Ancestors, Driven by Dreams: You Are the Next Story’, highlighting that nationhood is not just history—it’s built daily through creativity and imagination. — DayakDaily
