A Heritage Institution of

MEDIA RELEASE Embargoed until 13 Oct 2014, 8.30pm

A CULTURE FEAST FOR THE SENSES Exciting array of local and regional presentations at the Malay Heritage Centre’s special exhibition Budi Daya and 2014’s Malay CultureFest

Singapore, 13 October 2014 – This October, immerse yourself in the length and depth of Malay culture, both traditional and contemporary, as the Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) presents a brand new special exhibition, Budi Daya, and the third annual Malay CultureFest. Aligned to the Centre’s overarching theme for 2014 - “Nilai” or “Values”, both the exhibition and the festival are a vibrant expression of Malay culture and its ideals, as seen throughout the Southeast Asian region.

2 For a more dynamic and diverse expression of the Malay arts, culture and the Malay community itself, both the exhibition and festival feature visual and performing artists from Singapore and the region, including , Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam. Budi Daya and the Malay CultureFest will be officially launched by Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, on Monday 13 October 2014, 8.30pm. Please refer to Annex A for a calendar of events and details on the launch.

Budi Daya – the embodiment and expression of Malay culture

3 Budi Daya is the first exhibition at MHC to offer a multi-pronged presentation of historical artefacts, contemporary artworks and “living culture” programmes, in its aim to explore the value and meaning of ‘culture’ from the Malay perspective. The exhibition, which reflects the connection between traditional and contemporary, also showcases the dynamics between aesthetics of Malay craftsmanship and the vibrant, energetic expressions of contemporary artists from around the region. It is MHC’s third special exhibition since the Centre’s re-opening in September 2012.

4 This multi-layered show will feature 19 artists and 57 artefacts drawn from the National Collection and private loans, including 18 new commissions, and existing works by artists from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar,

Cambodia and Vietnam. The contemporary artworks consist of art forms including paintings, sculptures, installations, embroidery, performance, architecture and video art. Highlights include a community project by Kelantanese artist Roslisham Ismail@ISE who will engage local communities in appreciating the hidden histories and traditional knowledge behind much- loved cuisine; and a mixed-media installation and performance by Singapore artists, Rizman Putra and Safuan Johari, which are based on the eclectic musical influence of NADA, the pop band that came to fame in the 1970s.

5 Visitors can also look forward to artefacts, such as an ornate, carved wooden “lunch-box”, and tackle-box, used as daily equipment by fishermen from the East Coast of the Malay Peninsula, as well as unusual sets of the quintessential tepak sirih (Malay set of receptacles and implements used in the betel-chewing custom) from Sumatra and the Philippines. Together, artefacts and artworks portray the intellectual and passionate facets of Malay cultural aesthetics.

6 Budi Daya runs from 13 October 2014 to 29 March 2015. Please refer to Annex B for more information on the exhibition and programming.

Malay CultureFest 2014

7 Similarly, the Malay CultureFest sees a wider and longer-term engagement with Malay artists and arts groups, and includes a multitude of Malay cultural expressions, ranging from performances to talks and workshops – all selected for their rootedness in traditions and awareness of the contemporary landscape.

8 Festival highlights include Nan Jombang, a dance troupe from Sumatra, Indonesia, presenting an energetic contemporary version of the ; a unique Star Wars-inspired performance of Fusion Wayang Kulit, which will be performed for the first time in Singapore; and a ghazal recital by a collaboration of musicians from Singapore and Malaysia.

9. The Malay CultureFest is held over three weeks (Tuesday to Sunday) from 13 October to 2 November. Please refer to Annex C for festival line-ups.

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About the Malay Heritage Centre Officially re-opened by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in September 2012, the Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) showcases the history, culture and contributions of the Malay community within the context of Singapore’s history and multi-cultural society. MHC’s permanent galleries focus on the history of Kampong Gelam and showcase an interesting collection of artefacts from the National Collection and the Malay community. Through its exhibitions and programmes, the Centre aspires to be a vibrant destination of historical and cultural significance for both Singaporeans and international visitors. MHC is under the management of the National Heritage Board in partnership with the Malay Heritage Foundation.

About the National Heritage Board The National Heritage Board (NHB) was formed on 1 August 1993. Its mission is to foster nationhood, promote identity building, and champion the development of a vibrant cultural and heritage sector in Singapore. As the custodian of Singapore’s heritage, NHB is responsible for telling the Singapore story, sharing the Singaporean experience and imparting our Singapore spirit. NHB manages the national museums, heritage institutions, the Language Councils Secretariat and sets policies relating to heritage sites, monuments and the national collection. Through the national collection, NHB curates heritage programmes and presents exhibitions to connect the past, present and future generations of Singaporeans. NHB is a statutory board under the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. Please visit www.nhb.gov.sg for more information.

About the Malay Heritage Foundation The Malay Heritage Foundation was established on 28 July 1999 to promote the study and research, and the public’s understanding and knowledge of, the historical and socio-cultural development of the Malay community in Singapore through the Malay Heritage Centre and other relevant means. Since its inception, it has worked with various segments of the Malay and Singapore community, government agencies, philanthropists and entrepreneurs to further its cause.

For media queries, please contact: Sharon Cheong Elizabeth Tang DID: 6332 5401 DID: 6332 3921 Mobile: 9321 9455 Mobile: 9176 9182 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Annex A

Calendar of Events

A quick look at important events for Budi Daya and highlights of the Malay CultureFest.

All events are open to media.

Date Event Details

Mon, 13 Oct 2014 Media Preview of Media event – a briefing of Malay Budi Daya CultureFest and Budi Daya, an Media registration advanced tour of the exhibition, meet the 7.30pm curators, artists & performers

8.30pm Launch of Budi The launch of Budi Daya and the Malay Daya and Malay CultureFest 2014 will be officiated by Mr CultureFest Lawrence Wong, Minister/MCCY.

Performances Photo Opportunities of GOH with the The Drums of the welcome procession, at the launch of the Nusantara Festival & exhibition, and during the guided tour of the exhibition. Ulek Mayang

Nadi Singapura

Fri & Sat, 17 & 18 Nan Jombang Media preview/Meet-the-performers Oct 2014 Showcase Thursday, 16 October 8.30pm 4.00pm

Sat & Sun, 25 & 26 Cerita Hikayat Media preview/Meet-the-performers Oct 2014 Agus Nur Amal & Wayang Beber Wednesday,22 October 8pm 7.00pm

Fri & Sat, 31 Oct & Fusion Wayang Media preview/Meet-the-performers 1 Nov 2014 Kulit Thursday, 30 October 8.30pm 4.00pm

Sun, 2 Nov 2014 Ghazal of The Media preview/Meet-the-performers Ocean of Love 8.30pm Fri, 31 October 7.00pm

Annex B

About Budi Daya

13 October 2014 – 29 March 2015 Tuesdays – Sundays: 10.00am – 6.00pm Last entry at 5.30pm (Closed on Mondays) Galleries 1 & 2, Courtyards 1 & 2 Free

Showcasing artefacts alongside contemporary art, Budi Daya explores the value and meaning of ‘culture’ from the Malay perspective. This multi-layered, exhibition features 57 artefacts drawn from the National Collection and private loans as well as 18 new commissions, performances and existing works by artists from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Budaya, the Malay word for ‘culture’, extends into the concepts of budi and daya as expressed in the exhibition title. Budi originates from the Sanskrit buddhi, meaning ‘intellect’ or ‘wisdom’, but when adapted into the Malay language, it has expanded to include ‘ethics’ and ‘graciousness’. Daya refers to a person or community’s abilities, skills and capacities. Taken together, they express the notion of enacting budi in thought, emotion, speech and conduct which are held up as prized virtues.

Curators’ Tour 24 October & 21 November 2014 7.30pm - 8.30pm

24 January 2015 7.00pm and 9.00pm

Galleries 1 and 2 Free Admission

Join us for after-hours tours as Budi Daya curators introduce the different artefacts and contemporary artworks in the exploration of the value and meaning of ‘culture’ from the Malay perspective.

To register, please call 6391 0450 or email [email protected].

Special Programmes

Public Lecture Series – Understanding the Notion of “Budi” in Malay Culture: What It Means and Why It Matters?

Saturday, 18 October 2.00pm – 3.30pm

Auditorium Speaker: Professor Dr Lim Kim Hui, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Seoul In conjunction with Budi Daya exhibition

A culture is a social system that shares a set of common values. It influences our expectations of what is appropriate or inappropriate. Whereas some values can be considered universal, other values are considered culture- dependent. In the context of Malay culture, one of the key common values is the notion known as “budi”. This lecture tries to address the notion of “budi” and why it matters in our society. Among the issues discussed are “budi and skill”, “budi and success” and “budi as moral and/or intellectual virtues”.

Pusaka Cleansing Demo Saturday, 25 October 2.00pm – 6.00pm Lawn

Pusaka are treasured heirlooms that are passed down through generations. To care for these old artefacts can be a trying task for those unfamiliar with the processes and materials. This pusaka cleansing demo by Malay Art Gallery will share tips and methods on how best to care for your heirlooms.

Sacred Sirih: Traditions & Symbolism in the Malay World Saturday, 25 October 3.00pm - 4.30pm Auditorium

The sirih (betel) chewing tradition or makan sirih occupies a central place in traditional Malay culture. Find out more about the value of the sirih custom, from associated beliefs and other symbolism to its role in fostering social relationships in this lecture.

Cerita Hikayat Agus Nur Amal | Wayang Beber Saturday & Sunday, 25 & 26 October 8.00pm – 10.00pm Auditorium

Young visitors and families can participate in this interactive story telling programme by Agus Nur Amal, which merges traditional storytelling with the use of found items and props. This is paired with a collaborative effort between Ethnic Shadows and Dani Iswardana, which introduces a fascinating story telling genre, utilizing a pictured scroll.

*Performance will be held in Malay and Bahasa Indonesia

Artist Performances – Supper Club In conjunction with Art Week 2015 Saturday, 24 January 2015 7.00pm onwards

Experience art differently! Take part in a communal feast based on ancient recipes from the Langkasuka kingdom (Kelantan/Thailand). Encounter the folkloric Kabayan from Bandung or the strange Buddhist Bug around MHC and Kampong Gelam. Relive the heydays of the hit band, NADA with their unique blend of Malay keroncong, pop yeh-yeh and western classical music.

 The Langkasuka Cookbook by Roslisham Ismail@ise (Kelantan, Malaysia)  Buddhist Bug by Anida Yoeu Ali (Cambodia)  Si Kabayan Ngintreuk by Tisna Sanjaya (Bandung, Indonesia)  A NADA STORY by Rizman Putra in collaboration with Safuan Johari (Singapore)

Annex C

About Malay CultureFest 2014

13 October 2014 – 2 November 2014 Lawn Free

In celebration of the arts and culture of the , the 3-week long Malay CultureFest introduces a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary programmes by local and regional performers. The festival marks the 2nd anniversary of the re-opening of the Centre. Visitors can choose from, and experience, a multitude of Malay cultural expressions - from passive witnessing, to sensory and participatory. In addition to performances, Festival offerings include workshops, talks, and outdoor movie screenings.

In conjunction with the festival, MHC’s permanent galleries and new special exhibition, Budi Daya, will be open free of charge to all visitors.

Festival Highlights

The Rhythms of the Nusantara Monday, 13 October 2014 8.30pm – 10.00pm Lawn Free

The Malay CultureFest and Budi Daya exhibition will be officially launched to the beats and songs of Java, Minangkabau, and the Johor Riau region. This musical journey, The Rhythms of the Nusantara, will be performed by local and regional artists, and highlights the diversity of the Malay community.

Nan Jombang Showcase Friday & Saturday, 17 & 18 October 8.30pm – 9.30pm* Lawn

Catch Nan Jombang’s performances as this contemporary dance company from West Sumatra, Indonesia presents three dance pieces – Rantau Berbisik, Sarikaik & Sang Hawa.

Fusion Wayang Kulit Friday & Saturday, 31 October & 1 November 8.30pm – 10.30pm Auditorium

As part of this year’s Malay CultureFest, MHC will present a Star Wars- inspired performance of Fusion Wayang Kulit for the first time in Singapore. Audiences will get a chance to witness and compare Wayang Kulit in its traditional form and the form that visual artist Tintoy Chuo and his team have created. This show promises to be entertaining for both older and younger crowds. If you have never seen a Wayang Kulit performance before, let this be your first.

There will also be a post-show talk with the artist. **Performance will be held in Malay

Ghazal of the Ocean of Love Sunday, 2 November 8.30pm – 10.30pm* Lawn

The ghazal came to the Malay world from Persia via Mughal, India. Over hundreds of years, ghazal here began to take on its own unique characteristics, making it stand out from Persian and Indian Ghazal. With radio and the recording industry, Ghazal developed into a popular music form up until Singapore’s separation from Malaysia.

This year, MHC pays tribute to ghazal’s very own ‘wailing nightingale’, the songstress Rosiah Chik, whose voice resonated through the airwaves in the 60s and 70s with love poems, syair, gurindam which embody ghazal music. For this performance, expect a modern twist to classical ghazal with solo improvisations accompanied by oud, gambus, tablas and the Arkestra.

Other Festival Programmes

Kuda Kepang Showcase Sunday, 2 November 5.00pm – 7.00pm Lawn

The kuda kepang is a uniquely Javanese activity which usually accompanies weddings or coming of age rituals. However, the form can also be practised on its own as a showcase of human physic and as a death-defying spectacle.

Ulek Mayang Showcase Tuesday, 14 October 2014 8.30pm – 9.30pm* Lawn

Ulek Mayang is a ritualised dance performance that is usually held during harvest or prior to fishing season. This folk performance and song can today be found in film and pop music but the original form is still performed in the rural parts of Terengganu.

Gamelan Asmaradana Wednesday, 15 October 8.30pm – 9.30pm* MHC Plaza

Enjoy a relaxing evening with Gamelan Asmaradana as they play various pieces ranging from Javanese to Sundanese.

Galleries Alive! – Wayang Kulit Thursday, 16 October 10.00am – 10.45am Muzik Gallery Free

Watch the Centre’s permanent galleries come alive with performances of traditional music or enjoy a wayang kulit performance as our dalang tells the stories of Sang Kancil and his adventures.

Let’s Play! Tuesday, 14, 21 & 28 Oct Saturday & Sunday, 18, 19, 25 & 26 Oct 10.00am – 10.45am & 3.00pm – 3.45pm Courtyard 1

Come and learn more about traditional Malay games at the Malay Heritage Centre! Learn skills you will need to play capteh, main lereng (wheel spinning), congkak (traditional Malay board game), batu seremban (five stones) and many more. This 45-minute session will also invite participants to use their creativity as they invent new and fun games with new found items.

Silat Showcase by NTU Sunday, 19 October 4.30pm – 5.30pm

Join us as NTU’s Silat Club presents a special showcase on the art of silat. The showcase, which includes a synchronized trio demonstration, will also have an interactive portion where visitors get to learn some silat moves.

Neighbourhood Sketches – Langkah Nada Kita Tuesday & Wednesday, 21 & 22 October 8.30pm – 9.30pm* MHC Plaza

Visitors will get a chance to sample the rich Malay culture presented in the style of street performances. From martial arts to songs of worship, Neighbourhood Sketches will have something for every type of culture vulture.

Movie Nights @ MHC Fenomena | Thursday, 23 October Bunohan | Friday, 24 October 8.30pm onwards*

Calling all fans young and old! MHC’s Movie Night returns! Whether you are a serious film buff or looking for a weekend activity, join us for a picnic under the stars as we screen classic favourites and new offerings right here on our lawn. So bring your picnic mat, family and friends and soak in the magical movie atmosphere at the Malay Heritage Centre.

• The films will be screened in Malay. English subtitle is subjected to availability. • The dates and timing of Movie Nights will be published on MHC’s website and may be subject to change.

Cultivating Roots by Kaizen A Work In Progress Wednesday, 29 October 8.30pm – 9.30pm

Our art incubation group, Kaizen will be having their first showcase featuring site-specific dances performed at selected locations around the Malay Heritage Centre compound. The primary consideration of the choreographers is to allow dancers to adapt to their surroundings where expressions and gestures are forced into crevices or given the freedom to roam. This approach is the first of its kind at MHC and hopes to challenge the convention of stage performance normally associated with Malay dance forms.

Samrah Dance Performance by Bedok Green & Yuying Secondary School Thursday, 30 October 4.30pm – 5.30pm

Bedok Green and Yuying Secondary School’s Malay Dance Clubs showcase a unique presentation of and samrah dance by using props such as the tikar mengkuang and tampi, this special dance collaboration is set to mesmerise the crowd!

*Due to MHC's proximity to Sultan Mosque, all performances scheduled at this time will commence upon conclusion of the evening prayer. We seek your understanding on this matter.

All programmes are free and will be conducted in English unless otherwise stated.

Kindly check our website www.malayheritage.sg, Facebook page or contact our Visitor Services for more information and updates.

You may also call 6391 0450 (Tue - Sun: 10am – 6pm) or email your contact details to [email protected].