11.2 – Support of arts and heritage

11.2.5 – Arts and heritage contribution

UKM contributes to local arts, in terms of the number of annual public performances of university choirs/ theatre groups/ orchestras and etcetera. UKM’s engagement with the arts is demonstrated through its vibrant cultural scene. In 2023, the university hosted over 30 cultural performances, ranging from theatre productions to musical concerts and traditional dance showcases. These events highlight UKM’s ongoing dedication to promoting local arts and creating opportunities for the public to experience Malaysia’s rich cultural traditions.

1. KONSERT CITRA SENI UKM

The 2023 CITRA SENI UKM concert, held on 28 and 29 January 2023, showcased the culmination of 35 CITRA courses. This event served as a platform for students to demonstrate their artistic talents and skills. The Citra Seni Gala Concert, the grand finale, was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suzeren Md. Jamil, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Student and Alumni Affairs and Prof. Dr. Khairul Anwar Mastor, Dean of Citra Studies Center.

2. BENGKEL SENI TEATER UKM

This workshop, held from February 27 to March 1, 2023, was open to all UKM students. It aimed to elevate theatre performance standards at UKM by providing specific training in directing, scenography, and acting.

3. IHYA RAMADHAN 

The University Cultural Center, in collaboration with Geng Ngaji Global, will host an Ihya’ Ramadan program on April 6, 2023. The program will include a Yasin Reading Ceremony, ‘Lambuk’ Porridge Distribution, and an Al-Fatihah Recitation Review. 

4. PANGGUNG MALAYA POP

The Malaya Pop Theater, held on May 13, 2023, aimed to inspire young people, particularly students, to appreciate local music. The concert featured performances by Hariz Fayahet, Heidi Mouru, and Shahril Nizam, alongside bands like Nadir Music Official, Motherwits, Sekumpulan Orang Gila (SOG), and Masdo.

In addition to the performances, the event included an edutainment component to enhance understanding of improvisation and song composition in Malaysian pop music.

5. PEMANTAPAN BUDAYA: TENAGA PENGAJAR KEBUDAYAAN 

The program ” Pemantapan Budaya: Tenaga Pengajar Kebudayaan” is specifically designed to improve the competence and knowledge of teachers who are involved in the field of culture at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysi, held on 13 May 2023.

6. FESTIVAL UNGKU OMAR (UOFEST) 2023

The Ungku Omar Festival, UOFEST 2023, a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community, was a highlight of UKM’s academic year. This annual festival of Ungku Omar College showcased the diverse talents of UKM students, featuring a captivating array of performances, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts. The event that held on 2 – 4 June 2023 also included exciting competitions, engaging workshops, and cultural exhibitions, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. UOFEST 2023 was a testament to UKM’s commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of community among its students.

7. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – TRADITIONAL DANCE

The Inter-College Arts Festival (ICAF) 2023 showcased a vibrant array of traditional dance performances on 3 July 2023. Talented students from various colleges within UKM showcased their skills and passion for preserving cultural heritage through captivating dance routines. The performances highlighted the diversity of Malaysian culture, featuring dances from different ethnic groups and regions.

8. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – PENCIL DRAWING

The Inter-College Arts Festival (ICAF) 2023 featured a captivating pencil drawing competition on 5 July 2023. Talented artists from various colleges within UKM showcased their skills by creating stunning pencil drawings that ranged from realistic portraits to abstract art. The competition fostered creativity, technical skill, and an appreciation for the art of drawing among the participants.

9. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – VOCAL ENSEMBLE 

The Inter-College Arts Festival (ICAF) 2023 featured a captivating Vocal Ensemble program on 6 July 2023. Talented vocalists from various colleges within UKM came together to perform a variety of musical genres, including classical, pop, and traditional Malay music. The performances showcased the vocal prowess and musicality of the participants, creating a harmonious and inspiring atmosphere.

10. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – BAND

The Inter-College Arts Festival (ICAF) 2023 featured a dynamic Band program on 7 July 2023. Talented musicians from various colleges within UKM showcased their skills in a variety of genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and traditional Malay music. The performances were energetic, engaging, and showcased the diverse musical talents of the participants.

11. KM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – FASHION SHOWCASE

The ICAF – Fashion Show, held on July 8, 2023, was a highly anticipated event that showcased student creativity in fashion design, makeup, and stage performance.

12. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – GROOMING

The ICAF – Tatarias, held on July 5, 2023, highlighted the importance of makeup in enhancing stage performances and visual impact.

13. UKM’S INTER COLLEGE ART FESTIVAL (ICAF) 2023 – MONOLOGUE THEATER 

The Inter-College Arts Festival (ICAF) 2023 featured a captivating Monologue Theater program on 4 July 2023. Talented actors and actresses from various colleges within UKM showcased their solo performance skills, delivering powerful and emotive performances. The monologues explored a wide range of themes, from personal struggles to societal issues, highlighting the versatility and depth of the participants’ acting abilities.

14. FESTIVAL BORNEO (KAAMATAN X GAWAI) 

The Borneo Festival, held on June 10-11, 2023, celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Borneo’s indigenous communities. The festival showcased a diverse range of traditions, customs, and arts, including sales booths, Mr. & Ms. Borneo competitions, and captivating performances of singing and dancing.

15. THEATRE FESTIVAL  – RAHIM KAJAI (KRK) & IBRAHIM YAACOB (KIY) RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE

The UKM Theater Festival, formerly known as the UKM Theater Town (PTUKM), is an annual event organized by the Cultural Center and Jungle Theater Club (KTR), ARTISUKMA UKM. Starting in 2014, PTUKM is fully organized by KTR under the name UKM Theater Festival.  In 2023, the University Cultural Center returns to lead this competition in collaboration with KTR to improve program and competition management. UKM Theater Festival 2023 is now rebranded to PROSENIUM (UKM Theater Festival). This program is organized with the main purpose of unearthing and celebrating theater arts talents among UKM students. Throughout its organizing period, the UKM Theater Festival has successfully gathered many activists and fans of theater art from inside and outside UKM. On 19 June 2023, two colleges present their theater with according to assigned theme for Kolej Rahim Kajai was “Rahsia Kolej Melur” (3 pm) and Kolej Ibrahim Yaakub was “Rumah Sewa” (8.30 pm). 

16. THEATRE FESTIVAL – AMINUDDIN BAKI (KAB) & TUN HUSSEIN ONN (KTHO) RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE

This program is organized with the main purpose of unearthing and celebrating theater arts talents among UKM students. Throughout its organizing period, the UKM Theater Festival has successfully gathered many activists and fans of theater art from inside and outside UKM. On 20 June 2023, two colleges present their theater with according to assigned theme for Kolej Aminuddin Baki “Terpinggir” (3 pm) and Kolej Tun Hussein Onn “Hidup” (8.30 pm) 

17. THEATRE FESTIVAL – DATO ONN (KDO) & UNGKU OMAR (KUO) RESIDENTIAL COLLEG

This program is organized with the main purpose of unearthing and celebrating theater arts talents among UKM students. Throughout its organizing period, the UKM Theater Festival has successfully gathered many activists and fans of theater art from inside and outside UKM. The arrangement program on 21 June 2023, two colleges present their theater with the assigned theme for Kolej Dato Onn “Sasau” 3 pm and Kolej Ungku Omar “Duri” 8.30 pm. 

18. THEATRE FESTIVAL- PENDETA ZA’AB (KPZ) & BURHANUDDIN HELMI (KBH) RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE

This program is organized with the main purpose of unearthing and celebrating theater arts talents among UKM students. Throughout its organizing period, the UKM Theater Festival has successfully gathered many activists and fans of theater art from inside and outside UKM.  The arrangement program on 22 June 2023, two colleges present their theater with according to assigned theme for Kolej Pendeta Za’ba “Tunding Jari” 3 pm and Kolej Burhanuddin Helmi “Di Balik Kata” 8.30 pm

19. THEATRE FESTIVAL- KERIS MAS (KKM) & TUN SYED NASIR (KTSN) RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE

This program is organized with the main purpose of unearthing and celebrating theater arts talents among UKM students. Throughout its organizing period, the UKM Theater Festival has successfully gathered many activists and fans of theater art from inside and outside UKM. The arrangement program on 23 June 2023, two colleges present their theater with according to assigned theme for Keris Mas “Gadai” 3 pm and Kolej Tun Syes Nasir “Titian Berdarah Ku Junjung” 8.30 pm

20. UKM 2023 THE STAR NIGHT

UKM 2023 The Star Night , held on August 19, 2023, was a dazzling celebration of talent, creativity, and university spirit. This annual event showcased the diverse talents of UKM students, featuring a captivating array of performances, including music, dance, and theatre. The night was filled with electrifying performances, stunning visuals, and a festive atmosphere that brought the entire UKM community together. Star Night 2023 was a testament to the vibrant and dynamic culture of UKM, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

21. THE NATIONAL INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE CONFERENCE 2023

The National Intangible Cultural Heritage Conference 2023 or Persidangan Kebangsaan Warisan Kebudayaan Tidak Ketara 2023, held at UKM on 11 – 13 September, brought together experts to discuss and develop strategies for preserving intangible cultural heritage. The conference aimed to strengthen Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding its rich cultural heritage, particularly considering its recent success in securing a seat on the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The event emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, academic institutions, and communities to ensure the sustainability of intangible cultural heritage for future generations.

22. THE UKM INDEPENDENCE DAY 2023

The UKM Independence Day Concert 2023 was a vibrant celebration of Malaysia’s independence was held on 30 August 2023 at Dataran Panggung Seni, showcasing the talents and patriotism of the university’s students and staff. The event featured a diverse range of performances, including traditional dances, modern music, and theatrical acts. The concert was a platform for students to express their creativity and love for their country through art and culture. The festive atmosphere, coupled with patriotic songs and performances, made the event a memorable experience for all who attended.

23. FESTIVAL OF COLORS OF THE WORLD 2023 (FESCO 2023)

The Festival of Colors of the World 2023 was a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and artistic expression. Held at UKM on 22 July 2023, the festival showcased a mesmerising display of traditional dance performances from various countries, including Malaysia, India, and Indonesia. Participants from different age groups, from primary school students to university students, showcased their talents and passion for dance. The event was a visual spectacle, with colourful costumes, energetic performances, and a festive atmosphere that captivated the audience.

24. WATAN APPRECIATION WEEK 2023

In conjunction with the closing of Watan Appreciation Week 2023, UKM’s new students showcased their talents through various cultural performances, including skits, singing, dancing, dikir barat, boria, and musical instrument performances at the Mara Watan ke Puncak Menara Program on 4 October 2023.

Held at DECTAR UKM, the program also featured a performance by the university leadership, who sang two songs: “Polaroid” and “Kau Ilhamku.” UKM’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Gs Ts Dr Mohd Ekhwan Hj Toriman, made a special appearance at the end of the program to perform a patriotic song titled “Warisan.” The Mara Watan ke Puncak Menara program is the highlight of Watan Appreciation Week for the 2023/2024 academic session. 

The event was also attended by Dato’ Dr. Mohd Zaidi Md Zain @ Zakaria, a member of the University’s Board of Directors; Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Dato’ Registrars, Chief Librarians, Pro-Vice-Chancellors of UKM; and Deans and Center Directors.

25. THE DANCE FESTIVAL UKM 2023 

The Dance Festival UKM 2023, or Festival Tari UKM 2023 (FesTA23), was a vibrant celebration of dance and culture. Held at UKM, the festival showcased a diverse range of dance performances from various institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities.

The festival aimed to promote and preserve traditional and contemporary dance forms. It provided a platform for talented dancers to showcase their skills and creativity. The event featured a variety of dance styles, such as traditional Malay dance, contemporary dance, and international dance forms. The Dance Festival UKM 2023 was a memorable event that brought together dance enthusiasts and performers from all over Malaysia.

26. FESTIVAL SENI SUARA ALUNAN MELODI 2023

Festival Seni Suara Alunan Melodi 2023 was an annual event organized by UKM, designed to provide a platform for participants to showcase their vocal talents. Held on November 11, 2023, at the Art Theatre, UKM, the festival attracted talented young singers from various levels, including schools and universities.

In addition to the competitions, the festival offered scientific sharing sessions by music experts. The event was further enlivened by diverse groups and individual music performances. The closing night featured performances by guest singers Azizul Haqiem and Elda Susanti, followed by the announcement of winners and award ceremony.

27. OKESTRA TRADISIONAL MALAYSIA (OTM) 

Istana Budaya collaborated with the Cultural Center of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) as a strategic partner to ensure the success of the Gegar Kembara Musik Tradisional on October 14, 2023. Over 2,000 people gathered at DECTAR (Tun Abdul Razak Chancellor’s Hall), UKM, to celebrate this extraordinary traditional music festival. The event featured renowned guest artists such as Putra Muhammad, Nadeera, and Shiha Zikir. Additionally, UKM alumni Hariz Fayahet and Syafiqah Khambali also graced the stage with their performances.

The festival provided a platform for talented UKM students, including Vokalisukma UKM, Aadyamatra UKM, Tunas Warisan UKM, Gamelan Gita Sahmura UKM, Caklempong Gemersik Watan UKM, and the Chinese Traditional Music Group UKM, to share the stage with established artists. The event was attended by Encik Mohd Yusri Mohd Yusoff, Deputy Secretary General (Culture), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture; Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Abd. Razak, Chairman of the University Board of Directors; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suzeren Md. Jamil, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Student and Alumni Affairs.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/hxsLAT5Q2e97hcvY

28. UKM 51 CONVOCATION FESTIVAL

The UKM Convocation Festival 2023 (Karnival Konvokesyen UKM-51) was a multifaceted event was held on 23 – 30 November 2023, marked by academic achievements and vibrant cultural celebrations. The festival featured the main convocation ceremony honoring thousands of graduates, along with a lively carnival organized entirely by UKM students. The carnival showcased various activities, including food stalls, performances, and exhibitions, creating a festive atmosphere for graduates and their families. This student-led initiative reflected UKM’s commitment to empowering students and fostering a sense of community.

29. PERKAMPUNGAN BUDAYA PUSAT KEBUDAYAAN UKM

Cultural Village coordinated by the University Cultural Center, UKM, which took place on 3 October 2023, Tuesday, in conjunction with the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Territory Appreciation Week Session 2023/2024.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.800567368745663&type=3

30. MAJLIS PERASMIAN PENUTUPAN BULAN KEBANGSAAN & HARI MALAYSIA 2023

The @aadyamatra Dance Club of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia is invited to grace the Closing Ceremony of National Month & Malaysia Day 2023 organized by the Ministry of Higher Education. The ceremony was attended by YBHG. The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education was held at the Zaaba Hall, Ministry of Higher Education.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.763612745774459&type=3

31. MAJLIS PERASMIAN ARENA SUKAN AZMAN HASHIM

The Opening Ceremony of the Azman Hashim Sports Arena was graced with a dance performed by the @aadyamatra dance club. In addition, the UKM Cultural Center’s Music Cultural Artist also graced the ceremony with 10 songs accompanied by students from the Vokalisukma Club, namely Jibril. The ceremony was attended by UKM Vice Chancellor, YBhg. Prof. Dato’ Mr. Ts. Dr. Mohd Ekhwan Hj. Toriman, together with the UKM Board of Directors Chairman, Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Abd. Razak, who accompanied Tan Sri Azman Hashim as Trustee of Azman Hashim, as well as the Chairman of Amcorp Group, who officiated the ceremony at Arena Azman Hashim, UKM.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/pusatkebudayaanukm

32. MAJLIS SANJUNGAN BUDI LAMBAIAN KASIH

The UKM Cultural Center is involved in the performance invitation for the LAMBAIAN KASIH VIRTUE CELEBRATION CEREMONY. This event is organized by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education and is located at HOTEL TENERA BANGI

Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=651432190325849&set=pcb.651436066992128