Hari Warisan 2023: A Spectacular Celebration of Malay Heritage!
Step into the world of Malay culture and heritage as Hari Warisan 2023 (HRW2023) made its dazzling debut alongside the public for the first time on January 20, 2024. This historic event, organised by the Malay Heritage Foundation (MHF) in partnership with the Malay Heritage Centre, brought a vibrant splash of culture to the public like never before. Supported by the Malay Language Learning and Promotion Committee, National Arts Council and Wisma Geylang Serai, HRW2023 promised an unforgettable full-day extravaganza of an immersive celebration of Malay culture and heritage that broke new grounds.
Saturday, 20 January 2024 – In a momentous occasion marking a significant milestone, Hari Warisan 2023, organised by the Malay Heritage Foundation (MHF), warmly welcomed the public for the very first time. Held in collaboration with the Malay Heritage Centre, this flagship event promised an immersive celebration of Malay culture and heritage that shattered barriers and united communities. HRW2023 began with an enchanting flourish as Saudara Afi Hanafi graced the stage, weaving the opening moments with the ethereal beauty of his voice through a captivating syair recitation. With each melodic verse, he transported the audience on a journey through time, evoking the essence of Malay heritage and igniting the spirit of cultural celebration. Afi’s heartfelt rendition set the stage aglow, infusing the air with anticipation and setting the perfect tone for the vibrant festivities that unfolded throughout the day.
As attendees gathered in anticipation, MHF Chairman, Dr. Norshahril Saat, took to the stage, setting the tone for the day with a poignant speech that underscored the importance of cultural preservation and the power of heritage to unite and inspire. Amidst a backdrop of vibrant displays and captivating performances, his words echoed a sentiment of inclusivity and reverence for the rich tapestry of Malay traditions.
Morning Magic: Exploring Malay Dance Art
The day proceeded with an enthralling performance lecture led by the esteemed Creative Director of Sri Warisan, Marina Yusoff. With expertise and passion, Marina delved into the intricate world of “Malay Dance Art: Culture and Tradition Past and Present,” captivating the audience with insights into the rich tapestry of Malay heritage. Her mesmerising presentation not only educated but also inspired, setting a captivating tone that promised an extraordinary day filled with cultural exploration and enlightenment.
Dynamic Cultural Appointments
As the day unfolded, following a speech by Guest of Honour, Mr. Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, three dynamic Teman Warisan (Cultural Heritage Ambassadors) were appointed, and the second batch of Hadiah Warisan (Heritage Prize) and Tunas Warisan (Special Mention) Recipients was revealed. These individuals played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Malay heritage.
With this, the appointment of three new Teman Warisan was presented, followed by the announcement of the second batch of Hadiah Warisan and Tunas Warisan recipients.
Teman Warisan 2023:
- Saudari Sarah Syazlina Mohammed Darni, 18
- Saudari Tyara Chynta Puteri Noor Azhar, 13 (The Youngest Teman Warisan)
- Saudara Zinnurain Nasir, 32 (represented by MHF)
Tunas Warisan Recipient:
- Saudari Syafiqah ‘Adha Sallehin, 34
Hadiah Warisan Recipient:
- Tuan Zubir Abdullah, 59
Roll out the red carpet for our New Cultural Heritage Ambassadors! 🌟 Let’s give a warm welcome to the faces shaping our cultural legacy!
Teman Warisan 2023 #01 – Saudari Sarah Syazlina Mohammed Darni
Sarah Syazlina, the dynamic and versatile vocalist, has captivated audiences with her soulful melodies and spellbinding performances. Boasting a vocal range that effortlessly spans from velvety lows to highs, she has won hearts with her positive energy, emotive renditions, and relatable songs. Sarah discovered the enchantment of music as a sanctuary for expression. Her journey began with formal training and self-discovery, drawing inspiration from R&B, pop, and ballads. This exploration catapulted Sarah to the forefront of the music scene, evident in the depth and authenticity of her performances.
Diligently working towards milestones, Sarah’s debut singles – “FASA“, “BENAR-BENAR LUPA“, and “RISAU” – have garnered acclaim not only in Singapore but also in Malaysia and Indonesia, showcasing her evolution as an artist. Known for her engaging live shows, Sarah has graced prestigious stages, including Mediacorp Suria, Esplanade, Wisma Geylang Serai, and more. Her performances are a captivating blend of raw emotion and soulful vocal prowess, leaving audiences spellbound. Driven by an unwavering passion, Sarah is pushing the boundaries of her artistry. Currently working on her highly anticipated upcoming album, she promises to unveil a new dimension in her musical evolution.
Teman Warisan 2023 #02 – Saudari Tyara Chynta Puteri Noor Azhar
Tyara Chynta Puteri, a rising star in Singapore’s performing arts scene, is making waves as a young, enthusiastic ballet dancer and traditional Asian operatic performer. The eldest of three sisters, Tyara embarked on her artistic journey at 5, enrolling in The Ballet School Singapore, a prestigious institution. At just eight years old, Tyara joined Anggerik Temasek Bangsawan Singapura‘s Junior troupe, showcasing her talents in opera performances. Recognised for her exceptional ballet skills, she ascended through The Ballet School’s Elite Programme, beginning her international dance pursuits. Regularly recognised at esteemed competitions like ‘Get the Beat’ and the Asian Grand Prix, Tyara has become a prominent figure in the dance circuit.
Tyara’s versatility shines through her performances with Anggerik Temasek Bangsawan, where she seamlessly transitions between acting, singing, and dancing in digital and physical opera productions. Her notable international appearances, including the Experimental Theatre Festival in Hanoi and the ASEAN Panji Festival in Solo, further underscore her global impact. Under the mentorship of award-winning figures like Ms. Jovita Bautista and Mr. Nadiputra Almahdi, Tyara honed her skills at the Stellar School of Dance and received guidance from a Singapore Cultural Medallion awardee. Currently enrolled at the School of the Arts (SOTA) Singapore, Tyara aims to refine her stage presence and performance techniques in the coming years. Beyond her achievements in dance, Tyara exhibits musical prowess, playing the cello and trumpet. Her ultimate aspiration is to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams through the performing arts. Tyara’s journey is a testament to the dedication and passion that define emerging talents in Singapore’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Teman Warisan 2023 #03 – Saudara Zinnurain Nasir
Zinnurain Nasir, Assistant Curator at the Malay Heritage Centre, stands as a visionary curator with a passion for unravelling the intricate threads of Singapore’s cultural tapestry. Notably recognised for spearheading the impactful Haj exhibition, Zinnurain has earned accolades for his innovative approach to curatorial endeavours. As a curator at the Malay Heritage Centre, Zinnurain is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Malay community. His research interests delve into the heritage of Jawi-script magazines and microhistories of urban spaces, providing unique insights into the local history of Singapore.
Zinnurain’s visionary contributions extend beyond traditional exhibition curation, reflecting his commitment to exploring diverse facets of Singapore’s heritage. His work is characterised by a meticulous exploration of Jawi-script magazines and a profound understanding of urban spaces as conduits for unravelling the multifaceted layers of Singapore’s past. The success and positive reviews garnered by the Haj exhibition underscore Zinnurain’s ability to captivate audiences and shed light on often-overlooked aspects of cultural heritage. His unwavering dedication to advancing the understanding of Singapore’s history through innovative curation positions him as a vital asset at the Malay Heritage Centre.
Introducing our shining star, Tunas Warisan recipient, Syafiqah ‘Adha Sallehin! 🌟 Let’s celebrate her dedication and passion for preserving our heritage!
Tunas Warisan 2023 – Saudari Syafiqah ‘Adha Sallehin
In the spotlight of HRW2023, the Malay Heritage Foundation proudly announces Syafiqah ‘Adha Sallehin as a distinguished recipient of the prestigious Tunas Warisan Award. A luminary in the realm of music composition, Syafiqah stands as a testament to unwavering dedication and unparalleled artistry.
Syafiqah embarked on her musical journey by earning her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music composition from the renowned Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music in 2013 and 2016, respectively. Recognised early in her career, she received the Goh Chok Tong Youth Promise Award from MENDAKI in 2010, acknowledging her exceptional contributions to the field of music. A maestro with a distinctive voice, Syafiqah’s compositions resonate both locally and internationally. Her orchestral piece, “Bidasari“, based on the pan-Malay folktale, echoed through the Singapore Symphony Orchestra’s National Day Concert in 2018, captivating audiences with its cultural richness.
As a fervent advocate of traditional Malay music, Syafiqah not only composes but also contributes as the Music Director of Gendang Akustika, a traditional-contemporary music ensemble in Singapore. Beyond borders, she has showcased her talents at the 2019 Singapore Festival in Hanoi, Vietnam, and the 2019 International Bakhshi Art Festival in Termez, Uzbekistan. Syafiqah’s passion for preserving cultural heritage extends to her role as a lecturer at the School of Arts Singapore, where she imparts her knowledge of traditional Malay music. Her commitment to innovation in this realm earned her an artist and composer residency in “Rentas“, a program dedicated to advancements in traditional Malay music.
Her contributions also extend to co-founding the syncretic ensemble Open Score Project (OSP) in 2018. While she is no longer part of OSP, Syafiqah continues collaborating with fellow musicians, exploring common ground for creating new musical expressions. Syafiqah ‘Adha Sallehin’s multifaceted talent, unwavering dedication, and commitment to preserving and innovating within traditional Malay music make her deserving of the Tunas Warisan Award at Hari Warisan 2023.
Unveiling a Musical Legacy: Zubir Abdullah, Renowned Maestro of Malay Music, Honored with Hadiah Warisan 2023! 🎵🌟 #CulturalIcon 👏👏👏
Hadiah Warisan 2023 – Tuan Zubir Abdullah
MHF is delighted to announce the esteemed Zubir Abdullah as the recipient of the Hadiah Warisan (Heritage Award) for 2023. A luminary in traditional Malay music, Zubir’s lifelong dedication and profound contributions have left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Singapore. Zubir is a local artist, full-time composer, producer, and arts ambassador with a remarkable legacy spanning over 30 years. His unwavering commitment to promoting and preserving traditional Malay music has earned him local and international acclaim.
Zubir’s journey in the world of music began as a young enthusiast, evolving into a maestro revered for his mastery of traditional Malay tunes. His compositions seamlessly bridge the past and present, creating a harmonious continuum of the rich musical traditions embedded in Malay heritage. As a composer, Zubir’s creations echo the soul of Malay culture, touching the hearts of audiences across borders. His influence extends beyond mere musical notes. Zubir has been a dedicated mentor, nurturing the talents of aspiring musicians and ensuring the continuity of our cultural legacy.
In addition to his creative endeavours, Zubir has played a pivotal role as an arts ambassador, introducing traditional Malay music to diverse audiences. His efforts have not only elevated the profile of Malay music but have also fostered cross-cultural understanding. The Hadiah Warisan 2023, bestowed upon Zubir Abdullah during Hari Warisan 2023: Era Then and Now on 20 January 2024 at Persada Budaya, Wisma Geylang Serai, is a testament to his profound impact on the cultural landscape of Singapore.
Zubir’s acceptance of the Hadiah Warisan is an acknowledgement of his tireless efforts in preserving and promoting traditional Malay music, ensuring its resonance for generations to come.
A Culinary Delight with GOH
At 1 pm, the stage was graced by Minister Edwin Tong, who engaged in a live cooking demonstration with the culinary virtuoso, Chef Mel Dean. Together, they tantalised taste buds with the flavours of ayam masak merah (chicken in spicy tomato sauce) and pulut hitam (black glutinous rice pudding).
Storytelling and Mesmerising Performances
The excitement continued in the afternoon with storytelling maestro Teman Warisan Hafiz Rashid, followed by rhythmic beats from the NUS Dikir Barat Team and a mesmerising Gamelan performance by Gamelan Naga Kencana from Republic Polytechnic. It was a feast for the senses that left everyone enthralled.
Creative Haven at Craft Booths
Visitors were invited to embark on a hands-on journey at vibrant craft booths, where traditional crafts and contemporary expressions came to life. These craft booths promised an immersive experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Book Launch: “Nilawarisan: Budaya, Bahasa, Sastera, and Seni Berlanggam” and Engaging Forum: Bridging Generations through Malay Heritage
Concurrently, an engaging forum titled “Legacy in Motions: Bridging Generations through Malay Heritage” began at 2 pm. Assoc Prof. Dr. Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim graced the occasion as the Guest-of-Honour, leading discussions sparked by Pak Hamed Ismail’s insights from the newly published book, “Nilawarisan: Budaya, Bahasa, Sastera, and Seni Berlanggam”. The dynamic forum, moderated by pioneer Teman Warisan, Saudari Anis Qurratu’aini Azman, featured presentations by cultural practitioners and advocates: Mr. Afi Hanafi, Ms. Asmah Alias, and Mr. Mohd Fared Jainal.
HRW2023 was organised by the Malay Heritage Foundation (MHF) in partnership with the Malay Heritage Centre, and supported by the Malay Language Learning and Promotion Committee, National Arts Council and Wisma Geylang Serai
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Useful Links
- Full Video Segment I: Hari Warisan 2023
- Full Video Segment II: Book Launch & Legacy in Motion: Bridging Generations through Malay Heritage Forum
- Tribute Video for Teman Warisan 2023 and Award Recipients
- Dr. Norshahril Saat’s Opening Speech
- Hari Warisan 2023 Media Release
- Berita Harian – Komposer Zubir Abdullah, Syafiqah ‘Adha diiktiraf bagi jasa kepada warisan
- Berita Harian – Lestari amalan tradisi seiring perkembangan inovasi
- Berita Harian – Buku terbitan Yayasan Warisan Melayu galak belia martabat warisan
- Berita Mediacorp – Hari Warisan 2023 libatkan orang awam; lantik lagi tiga Teman Warisan
- Minister Edwin Tong’s FB – Malay Cultural Champions | Highlight Reel
- Chef Mel Dean’s FB – Selera Warisan with Chef Mel Dean Tempo Dulu Tempo Sekarang
- Wisma Geylang Serai’s FB – Relive the moments from Heritage Day organized by Malay Heritage Foundation on 20 January!