Penang showcases eight diverse intangible cultural heritage traditions, including Chingay, lion dance, kebaya, Silat, Silambam, Boria and batik
GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s intangible cultural heritage, including lion dance performances and a Chingay procession, added a colourful touch to the 69th State-Level National Day Parade at Padang Kota Lama here today.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the contingent, themed “Memartabatkan Warisan Tidak Ketara, Kegemilangan Pulau Pinang Terpelihara”, showcased eight forms of intangible cultural heritage from various communities.
He said the eight forms featured were kebaya, Chingay, lion dance, Silat Siku 12, Silambam, Boria, batik and Nyonya beaded shoes, while the trishaw was highlighted as Penang’s living heritage.
“The contingent brought together Penang’s intangible cultural heritage, showcasing the diversity, richness and enduring value of traditions deeply rooted in the state’s history.
“Various elements of living heritage recognised at international, national and state levels were brought together in a single contingent, with heritage from different communities, ethnic groups and cultural backgrounds showcased side by side,” he said here today.
Wong said among the main attractions of the contingent were two lion dance costumes made primarily from batik cloth, blending the visual elements of traditional Malay batik art with the form, craftsmanship and performance traditions of Chinese lion dance.
In addition, he said one of the four Chingay flags featured a special kebaya-themed design bearing the words “Kebaya – Shared Tradition”, describing it as an effort to elevate the concept of cultural diversity from “living together” towards “unity and integration”.
“Penang’s cultural heritage is no longer simply about each tradition standing out for its uniqueness and existing side by side, but about integrating and complementing one another,” he said.
Wong also said the kebaya held particular significance following its inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, while Boria is recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage originating in Penang.
“Lion dance and Chingay are among the national intangible cultural heritage currently undergoing the nomination process for international recognition, while Silambam and Silat Siku 12 are also highlighted as Penang’s intangible cultural heritage,” he said.
Wong said the contingent’s participation in showcasing Penang’s intangible cultural heritage was part of the state government’s efforts to strengthen cultural soft power and safeguard, preserve and promote the state’s heritage.
.jpg)
