UMS, NUS collaborate on Native Sabahan beadwork programme

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 10): Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) successfully organised the Native Sabahan beadwork programme as a cross-cultural initiative at UMS here recently.

UMS Faculty of Education and Sports Studies (FPPS) Rural Education Research Unit (UPPLB) head and programme director, Associate Professor Dr Connie Shin @ Connie Cassy Ompok said that programme aimed to introduce and elevate the traditional beadwork craft of Sabah’s indigenous communities to international participants.

“This programme not only provides participants with exposure to the cultural values and identity of local heritage, but also serves as a medium for cultural and knowledge exchange through an experiential learning approach.

“In addition, it enhances understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity through hands-on learning activities,” she said in a statement.

According to Dr Connie, the programme involved 16 students from the NUS Faculty of Science, thereby strengthening academic networks and bilateral relations between UMS and the university.

“FPPS extends its highest appreciation to all parties who were directly and indirectly involved in the success of this programme.

“Such efforts are hoped to continue in support of the preservation and sustainability of local cultural heritage,” she added.

The programme was officially launched by the Dean of FPPS, Associate Professor Dr Soon Singh Bikar Singh, who also presented certificates to the participants.

Also present were NUS lecturer Dr Shao Ting Hoong; Programme Secretary Mohamad Akmal Ariq Dzainuddin; and expert instructors in traditional Sabahan beadwork, Agnes Angkung and Doris Sabala.