The second season of Pentas Seni Merdeka, a public arts and culture programme to revitalise the Kuala Lumpur city, was launched at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur on August 19, 2023.
The programme, which began on July 22 and will run until November 2023, showcases a diverse lineup of traditional arts by master performers and various arts and cultural programming from around Malaysia for visitors of all ages, all set in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
The free monthly public arts initiative by Think City and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), is aimed at promoting social equity through public space activation while enhancing the overall liveability and vibrancy of downtown Kuala Lumpur.
Dato’ Hanifah Hajar Taib, the Deputy Economy Minister, stated during the launch event: “I am pleased to see the continuation of Pentas Seni Merdeka in revitalising the city and uplifting our communities through culture and heritage.”
Hanifah added: “It is with hope that this inclusive public programme would serve to foster economic growth and create job opportunities within the dynamic creative sector.”
Hanifah said the creative and cultural economic sectors which are fundamental in fuelling a vibrant Kuala Lumpur, are in line with the aspirations of the recently launched Malaysia Madani economic framework.
“By harnessing our historical heritage and local talents, we amplify Kuala Lumpur’s attractiveness and competitiveness, positioning it as a global creative destination and economic powerhouse,” she added.
Also present at the event launch were Think City managing director Hamdan Abdul Majeed and DBKL Culture, Arts, Tourism and Sports Department senior deputy director Izwan Razif Salehapad.
“The Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District, amongst other efforts announced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia is poised to champion this cause, much like the success demonstrated by numerous other creative districts globally. Together, let us cultivate a thriving city that fuels innovation and drives the city’s growth and prosperity for all,” Hanifah added.
Hamdan said public spaces within the city have great potential to become socially equitable platforms to promote arts and culture and help generate social and economic dividends within the ecosystem.
“As we accelerate our efforts to develop downtown KL into a dynamic creative and cultural district, Pentas Seni Merdeka has emerged as a marquee event for traditional master performers in Malaysia and the surrounding region. This event has created a positive ripple effect throughout the area and the community,” he added.
Pentas Seni Merdeka featured Mak Yong Kelantan by Kumpulan Mak Yong Cahaya Matahari on July 22, and Barongan Seni Reong by Kumpulan Sri Wahyuni, Johor on August 19, 2023.
The next edition will be on September 9, 2023 that will feature music and dance from Borneo featuring Malaysia’s Living National Heritage, Mathew Ngau Jau and Alena Murang.
Subsequent editions will be held every second Saturday until November 2023 and will feature other traditional performances such as Teochew Opera and Indian cultural art forms.
Pentas Seni Merdeka takes place at Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka from 6.00pm to 10.30pm.
