By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH – The Perak state government remains committed to strengthening arts and culture as a core identity and economic driver in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 aspirations.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the Perak State Arts Awards (ASN) 2025 represents the highest recognition for cultural icons and practitioners who have preserved the state’s heritage treasures.
He stressed that arts and culture are more than just entertainment, but symbols of identity and the strength of society that must be passed down to the younger generation.
“History has proven that a nation loses its identity when its arts and culture are sidelined. Perak is fortunate to have a rich heritage such as dabus, rebana, labu sayong, gold-thread embroidery (tekat benang emas), and traditional woodcraft,” he said during the ASN 2025 ceremony at Travelodge Hotel here last night.
He added that the challenges of globalisation must be addressed through new strategies, including digitalisation of the arts, social media engagement, and international stage performances.
Saarani also highlighted the role of People of Remarkable Talent (PORT) in nurturing young talents, as well as the achievements of Perak’s indigenous art showcased at the Venice Biennale.
He noted that the state government has implemented the Perak Digital Economy Action Plan and the Perak Smart City Blueprint 2040 to support the growth of the creative industry.
“The creative industry currently contributes four per cent to the national GDP. With the right strategies, Perak can emerge as a model state in elevating arts and culture,” he said.
Saarani further emphasised that youth are the heirs of cultural heritage, and therefore various programmes and workshops have been organised to ensure traditions remain alive and relevant to the younger generation.
