'Creativity vital to keeping culture alive'

A HIGH level of creativity is needed in order for the nation's cultural and traditional arts scene to stay relevant in the face of globalisation.

According to Mohd Shahrol Amira Abdullah, the Secretary representative/ head secretariat from the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) Supreme Council, Brunei's cultural heritage needs to be developed so that it will not be viewed as something "nostalgic".

"At the same time, such a level of creativity will ensure that the local arts can be seen as a product that is valuable for commercial purposes which in turn will boost the development of the nation," he said.

He said this in his welcoming speech recently during the launch of a three-day MIB Roadshow themed 'Manifestations of Culture' at the Airport Mall in Berakas.

The roadshow is part of a long-term strategy to cultivate values of MIB and is also an ongoing programme to foster the development of the creative industry in terms of the local arts and culture.

On the other hand, Mohd Shahrol pointed out that it also requires the help and participation from all members of the public if MIB was to survive.

"Only with strong cooperation from everyone, especially youths, coupled with a sense of identity and harmony within the nation, can our cultural heritage continue to grow," he said.

"Hopefully, the roadshow will cause the Bruneian society to be more determined in adopting a way of life that is in line with MIB values," he added.

Some of the things featured during the roadshow are traditional food and games, jawi writing and the art of self-defence, pencak silat.

Visitors are also encouraged to participate in the activities in order to truly experience and enjoy the elements of the nation's cultural heritage.

The roadshow is open from 9.30am - 9.30pm and ends today.

In a previous report, the MIB philosophy was regarded a vital piece in guarding the nation's identity and values from the challenges of globalisation.

At that time, Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Abu Bakar Hj Apong in his lecture at Universiti Brunei Darussalam stressed that MIB values are needed to equip Bruneians to survive in the face of global changes.

In May, Secretary/head secretariat of the MIB Supreme Council Associate Professor Ampuan Dr Hj Brahim Ampuan Hj Tengah said that the discussion and documentation of MIB are among the roles of the MIB Supreme Council focusing on dissemination, publication and research. The Brunei Times