Curtin Sarawak students embrace 1Malaysia concept

Miri – 14 October, 2009 – Students of Curtin University of Technology, Sarawak Malaysia (Curtin Sarawak) recently celebrated the 1Malaysia concept launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak with an evening of cultural performances aimed at promoting the 1Malaysia concept and appreciating the different cultures and ethnic groups of Malaysia.

The event with a ‘One Malaysia’ theme was organised by Malaysian Studies unit lecturers Valerie Valina and Aloysius Sujah and students of Curtin Sarawak’s School of Foundation & Continuing Studies. Held at the university’s Harry Perkins Lecture Theatre, it was well attended by both staff and students of the school and the university as a whole.

The evening’s programme got off to a joyous start with the screening of the 1Malaysia music video and students and staff singing merrily in accompaniment. This was followed by captivating cultural performances by the students dressed in the traditional costumes of Malaysia’s various ethnic communities.

The audience was visibly intrigued by their showcases of Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, rituals and art forms. They included mock Malay, Indian and Chinese weddings, skits on the country’s varied ethnic and religious festivals, demonstrations of festive ‘open houses’, a fashion show featuring Malay traditional costumes, riveting performances of Kelantan’s Dikir Barat and Terengganu’s Ulik Mayang, and a medley of ethnic dances.

“I was really touched by the students’ initiative in planning and rehearsing for the performances. They spent considerable time and effort perfecting them. Everything went on flawlessly and it seemed everyone was really impressed,” said Valerie.

Dean of the School for Foundation & Continuing Studies, Beena Giridharan, also commended the students on the quality of the performances, adding that the commitment of staff and students truly embodied the 1Malaysia concept at the university.

“Such events help our students understand national policies such as the 1Malaysia concept and their impact on national development. Furthermore, they instill a sense of patriotism in the students, as well as pride in their cultural heritage, and thus contribute towards national unity. It is indeed inspiring to see students leading national causes and contributing to nation-building through such events and presentations,” said Beena.

Students performing a skit.

Showcasing Chinese New Year celebrations.

Performing a Malay dance.

Parading baju kurung and kebayas during fashion show.

A mock Indian wedding.