YOUNG TALENT: Abdul Karim presents a scroll to a participant who completed a traditional dance, songs and art course at Batu Lintang Auditorium. — Photo by Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING: The number of youths who are still interested in upholding the rich cultures of the state is still high, and this warms the heart of Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
“It is the government’s policy to inject new spirit for our youths to excel in education and also in the arts and traditions,” the Assistant Minister of Youth Development said at a ceremony to present certificates to 236 youths who had completed a traditional dance, songs and art course at Batu Lintang Auditorium here yesterday.
Also present were principal assistant secretary (Culture) of the Ministry of Social Development Nancy Jolhi and Batu Lintang Teaching Institute deputy director Jamiran Salam.
Abdul Karim said the course, which was organised by the Ministry of Social Development for the second year running, provided good exposure to the participants.
“Response to the course is good. It is an obvious sign that our youths still like our traditional arts, cultural music and theatre.”
He hoped those who had completed the course to pursue their interest at a higher level, and apply what they had learned by participating in programmes and activities organised by the ministry, other government bodies or the private sector.
“The cultural development division in the ministry of social development are all for showcasing our cultures and arts. This year alone it was involved in 70 performances to showcase traditional songs and music.”