Kota Kinabalu: State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew has pledged a contribution of RM20,000 in support of Kian Kok Middle School’s 24 Festive Drums Team which will be performing in the 2025 Hainan Wenchang-Nanyang Cultural Festival in China next month.
The 12-member troupe, the sole participating team from Malaysia, has been invited to join the Federation of Hainan Associations Malaysia on a cultural journey to Wenchang, Hainan to take part in the 2025 Hainan Wenchang - Nanyang Cultural Festival.
Liew said the Ministry has always placed great importance on and fully supported the activities of the drum troupe as the 24 Festive Drums is not only a significant symbol of Chinese culture but also a mirror reflecting the rich multicultural society of Sabah.
“As a unique and distinctive cultural performance, this drumming art embodies the harmony and coexistence of Sabah’s diverse ethnic cultures.
“Sabah is a land of racial and cultural diversity, and the 24 Festive Drums is a vibrant representation of this diversity. Cultural activities like this help foster greater understanding and respect among different communities, further strengthening multiracial harmony and unity,” she said at the Flag Presentation Ceremony of Kian Kok Middle School’s 24 Festive Drums Team at the school hall, Thursday.
The Minister presented the Malaysian flag to the team, which was received by the Chairman of the Kian Kok Middle School Board of Directors Datuk Clement Yeh, and witnessed by the President of the Federation of Hainan Associations Malaysia, Datuk George Yong Ket How.
Also present was the Principal Goh Teck Seng. Yeh and Yong expressed their appreciation to the Minister for supporting the 24 Festive Drums team’s participation in the festival.
Liew said it marked not only the team’s journey onto the international stage but also the brilliance of Malaysian culture.
“You, the pride of the Chinese community, are not only representing your school but also serving as cultural ambassadors of Malaysia. You are carrying the essence of Malaysian culture to China and showcasing our diversity, inclusivity and innovation to the world,” she told the team members.
“I wish the 24 Festive Drums Team of Kian Kok Middle School great success in this cultural festival. May the cultural exchanges between Malaysia and China continue to flourish.”
The 24 Festive Drums, which originated in Johor Baru, Malaysia in 1988, has evolved into a unique art form.
The Minister congratulated all the teachers and students of Kian Kok Middle School. “Your dedication and achievements have not only brought honour to your school but also made a significant contribution to Sabah’s cultural landscape.”