Cultural treat at the park

By Yip Yoke Teng
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/4/30/central/3774851&sec=central

THE Petaling Jaya City Council’s (MBPJ) Laman Budaya programme held at Taman Jaya every month is gaining popularity among locals and tourists.

This was evident from the turnout at the event last Saturday as friends, families and students converged at the park to take part in the various activities promoting art and culture.

A Dikir Barat competition was the highlight of the day. Contestants from SMK Sri Utama, SMK Taman Medan, SMK Seksyen 4 Kota Damansara, SMK (P) Methodist Kuala Lumpur and SMK Kampung Jawa Klang enthralled the audience with their lively serenades rendered to traditional rhythms.

A wayang kulit performance by the P.K. Suman Sri Wijayu Niam group also kept everyone riveted before they were treated to another wave of cultural showcases with traditional musical performances featuring the angklung and guzheng.

Kelantan tradition: One of the teams participating in the Dikir Barat competition.

Guest artiste Adibah Noor, too, added to the merry atmosphere with her talent and antics.

MBPJ councillor Halimey Abu Bakar, who also took his family to the park, noted that the Laman Budaya programme, organised by the council’s Social, Culture and Tourism Section, had played an important role in inculcating good values among youths.

“Apart from instilling the spirit of togetherness and fostering closer family ties, the Laman Budaya programme has contributed to the conservation of our colourful customs,” he added.

Bukit Gasing assemblyman Edward Lee and MBPJ councillor Tang Fuie Koh also visited the event.

Exhibitions by Istana Budaya and the National Archive, cooking demonstrations, sand art and handicraft booths, and song and dance performances by the MBPJ troupe made it a rewarding day for all.