Sustainability

Maybank Foundation launches 'Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar' (CASB) - celebrating the diversity of Malaysia's creative and cultural heritage

As part of Maybank's continuous commitment to drive Malaysia's arts and culture scene, Maybank Foundation, the social impact arm of Maybank Group has launched the Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar(CASB), a vibrant new initiative dedicated to celebrating and preserving Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, held at Balai Seni Maybank.

Maybank Foundation launches 'Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar' (CASB) - celebrating the diversity of Malaysia's creative and cultural heritage

The inaugural event highlights the talents of 11 local artisans and nine groups of cultural practitioners through dynamic activities, workshops and exhibitions, offering the public a unique opportunity to experience the diversity and vibrancy of Malaysia's cultural landscape.

The CASB will feature local artisans such as Tanoti, Nor Asmah Daud, Chandra Shegar, Rumah Gambus, Han The Craftsman, Gallery Gerimis, myBatik, ManekNya, We&I Art, Winnie Kam and Sunprint Studio, and cultural practitioners such as the award-winning Lee Rubber Chinese Orchestra, Gangsapura, Temple of Fine Arts, Akademi Arjunasukma, Alena Murang, Mathew Ngau Jau, Dondang Dongeng, Pertubuhan Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia (Perak) and Fusion Wayang Kulit.

Visitors of the Maybank Foundation Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB) had the opportunity to experience the soothing sounds of Alena Murang, a Malaysian singer-songwriter, Sape player, visual artist and educator who sings in Sarawakian languages including 'Kelabit' and 'Kenyah'.

As part of the Balai Seni Art Series Programme (BSAS) by Maybank Foundation, CASB aims to invigorate the local art scene by providing a premier platform for artisans and cultural practitioners to showcase their talents and share the stories behind their crafts, while empowering communities by ensuring Malaysia's cultural heritage continues to thrive for future generations.

Visitors can explore an impressive array of traditional crafts such as songket creation at the Maybank Foundation Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB). Other traditional crafts exhibited include Peranakan beadwork, pua kumbu weaving, batik creation, 'Wau' (kite) crafting, saree and accessory designs, as well as Chinese calligraphy and musical instruments. The showcases not only exhibit the intricate beauty of Malaysian craftsmanship but also emphasizes the cultural significance embedded in each art form.

The CASB, which begins from 9 to 30 September 2024 provide visitors the opportunity to experience unique programmes such as:

• Artisan Showcases: Explore an impressive array of traditional crafts, including Peranakan beadwork, batik and songket creation, 'Wau' (kite) crafting, saree and accessory designs, as well as Chinese calligraphy and musical instruments like the Gambus and traditional Chinese orchestra set. The showcases not only exhibit the intricate beauty of Malaysian craftsmanship but also emphasizes the cultural significance embedded in each art form.
  
  
• Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions led by experienced artisans, offering workshops such as 'Wau' (kite) making, calligraphy painting, paper cutting art, songket weaving, batik painting, saree wearing tips, mini recycled woodwork and recycled craft hand paintings. These sessions provide an opportunity for the public to create personalised pieces while gaining a deeper appreciation for Malaysia's cultural heritage.
  
  
• Live Performances: Enjoy a selection of live performances that highlight Malaysia's diverse cultural expressions. The program includes performances by The Temple of Fine Arts (TOFA), Alena Murang, a Malaysian singer-songwriter, a fusion wayang kulit presentation by Tok Dalang Pyu and Gangsapura Silat Bunga Tanjung - each representing a facet of Malaysia's artistic legacy.
  
  
• Local Delicacies: A variety of local favorites and traditional foods will be available for purchase such as Laksa Johor, Laksa Sarawak, traditional Malaysian desserts, kolo mee and asam pedas - allowing guests to experience authentic Malaysian flavours.

Visitors of the Maybank Foundation Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB) appreciating an energetic 'Dikir Barat' performance by local artisan, The Akademi Arjunasukma.

The CASB represents Maybank Foundation's unwavering commitment to nurturing arts and culture at the grassroots level. Recognising the essential role that artisans play in the cultural fabric of society, Maybank Foundation is dedicated to supporting their sustainability and ensuring that traditional arts and crafts are passed down to future generations.

Visitors of the of the Maybank Foundation Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB) can participate in hands-on sessions led by experienced artisans, offering workshops such as batik painting, 'Wau' (kite) making, calligraphy painting, paper cutting art, pua kumbu weaving, saree wearing tips, mini recycled woodwork and recycled craft hand paintings.

Head of Group Corporate Affairs at Maybank and CEO of Maybank Foundation, Izlyn Ramli said "This initiative holds great significance for us at Maybank Foundation. The inaugural Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB) initiative is not just about preserving our past but also about inspiring the future. We hope the CASB will encourage more people to engage with and appreciate our rich cultural heritage."

"As a leading advocate for arts and culture within the community, we have consistently strived to empower local and ASEAN artisans and cultural practitioners through the Maybank Foundation Balai Seni Art Series Programme. Since its inception in 1988, this programme has benefited over 811 artists, providing them a platform to showcase their masterpieces in more than 35 exhibitions organised by Maybank Foundation," added Izlyn.

Visitors of the of the Maybank Foundation Cultural Art Showcase and Bazaar (CASB) captivated by performances by Dondang Dongeng, a group of homegrown singers, storytellers and musicians showcasing their colourful characters, traditional elements and inspiring moral themes.

With its strategic timing and central location, the CASB is set to be a landmark event. Open to the public with no bookings or ticket purchases required, the showcase runs from 9 to 30 September at Balai Seni Menara Maybank, Jalan Tun Perak, Kuala Lumpur. Activities and showcases will commence from 9.30am to 5.30pm on Mondays to Fridays, 10.00am to 6.00pm on Saturdays and will be closed on Sundays and public holidays..

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