Tourism ministry seeks Unesco recognition for lion, dragon dances

Khairul Firdaus (second left) performs the traditional Chinese eye-dotting ceremony on two lions, symbolising the awakening of their spirits. Photo credit: Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas)

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, July 28: The Kuching Waterfront here last night (July 27) was abuzz with vibrant performances and cultural displays as the city hosted the inaugural 2024 Lion Dance Festival, a grand celebration aimed at promoting traditional Chinese art forms and fostering unity among Malaysians.

According to Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia (Motac), the ministry is currently working with the Chinese government to obtain United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) recognition for lion and dragon dances as performing arts.

“This initiative is very much in line with the government’s desire to dignify the arts and culture of various races in Malaysia, as outlined in the National Cultural Policy (Daken), Core 7, Cultural Excellence,” he said during his speech at the launching ceremony of the 2024 Lion Dance Festival at the Kuching Waterfront.

The deputy minister also lauded Kuching’s selection as the festival venue, citing Sarawak’s renowned ethnic diversity as a perfect backdrop.

“Given the overwhelming response, Motac intends to make this festival an annual event and a key cultural attraction for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026),” he stated.

Furthermore, Khairul Firdaus revealed that the Niah National Park’s cave complex in Sarawak has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site as of 4.30pm yesterday.

“Congratulations, Sarawak! This brings Malaysia’s total Unesco World Heritage Sites to five, including Gunung Mulu National Park, Kinabalu Park, the historic cities of Melaka and George Town, and the Lenggong Valley Archaeological Heritage,” he shared, highlighting the potential boost for VM2026.

He further expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Sarawak government, public service members, federal agencies, local authorities, and non-governmental organisations for their unwavering support and dedication to the festival.

“Your commitment not only enhances this festival but also plays a vital role in promoting VM2026 and establishing Sarawak as a premier destination rich in unique culture and traditions,” he added.

The evening’s ceremony was also graced by Dato Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Motac’s deputy secretary-general (Management), who, alongside Khairul Firdaus, performed the traditional Chinese eye-dotting ceremony on two lions, symbolising the awakening of their spirits.

The three-day event, from July 26 to 28, aims to revitalise the economy, particularly the tourism, arts, culture, and heritage sectors in Sarawak, while promoting the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign (VM2026).

The festival featured a variety of engaging activities, including a Lion Dance Parade, workshops with master craftsmen on lion head making, lion dance drum technique demonstrations, an exhibition of Unesco-recognised Malaysian heritage, graffiti and mural painting demonstrations, craft product sales, and a ‘konsert rakyat’ (people’s concert) to entertain locals and tourists alike. — DayakDaily