The Malaysian Craft Council (MCC) has created history by being elected to the evaluation body under the 2003 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for the 2026-2029 term.
MCC won the vote at the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee, which was held recently in New Delhi, India.
As a non-govermental body, it represents diverse craft and performing arts sectors, and connects industry players to position Malaysian arts and crafts internationally through collaborations and strategic networks. In 2024, MCC was appointed a Unesco-accredited NGO and is also a member of the World Craft Council’s National Entity.
MCC president Nik Faiz Nik Amin said the recent Unesco evaluation body appointment is an international recognition of Malaysia’s role in efforts to preserve and empower intangible cultural heritage.
"Therefore, every involvement of MCC will be carried out transparently and in accordance with the guidelines stipulated under the 2003 Unesco Convention. This role will be performed independently and professionally, in line with the principles of transparency, fairness and integrity outlined by Unesco.
"MCC is committed to carrying out this responsibility with full trust and to continue contributing to global efforts to ensure the preservation and sustainability of intangible cultural heritage for future generations,” he said.
According to Nik Faiz, MCC’s participation in the evaluation body also reflects Malaysia’s commitment to supporting the protection of the world’s intangible cultural heritage based on community involvement and sustainability, in line with Unesco’s approach which emphasises the importance of heritage as a living cultural practice that continues to thrive and evolve. - Bernama
