Saturday July 14, 2012

A memorable event

Story and photos by CHERYL HEW
cherylhew@thestar.com.my

THE SJK(C) Mambang Diawan hall burst into life when it became the stage for an arts and cultural programme.

Officially opened by Kampar MP Datuk Lee Chee Leong, the programme featured dance performances representing various cultures in the country.

Malay dancers decked in shimmering gold outfits graced the opening act, captivating those present with their elaborate hand movements that flowed naturally with traditional music.

Thank you: Lee (right) receiving a gift from Abdul Mutalib (left). With them is Keranji Barisan Nasional coordinator Chang Gwo Chyang.

The audience was then entertained by an energetic Iban dance, where the dancers chanted loudly to the music, adding an air of excitement to the performance.

There was even a duet by two young girls who belted out a Chinese song. They even added several acrobatic moves to their performance to spice things up.

All smiles: An Indian dancer’s graceful pose during the arts and culture programme.

Still, the highlight of the night was the closing act, where all dancers from the previous performances came together to sing a 1Malaysia song.

The rain had not dampened the spirits of Mambang Diawan villagers who attended the event, some even cycling in the rain to reach the school hall.

In his speech, Lee said the aim of the multicultural programme was to instil the spirit of cooperation among Kampar residents.

“Perak is filled with different cultures and practices, making this programme a good platform to promote the state’s uniqueness while preserving them,” said Lee, who is also Deputy Home Minister.

State National Culture and Arts Department director Abdul Mutalib Abdul Rahman said the programme was the fourth to be held in the state this year.

“The previous programmes were held in Sungai Siput, Tanjung Malim and Bagan Serai,” he said.