THE striking blue nasi kerabu served on a plate with half a salted egg, solok lada, ulam and keropok looks so mouth-watering that visitors may be tempted to reach out and have a taste.
But it is only a replica and one of many on display at “Pameran Rona Jiwa Malaysia” (Exhibition of Malaysia’s Soulful Hues) running until Sept 19 at the National Library in Kuala Lumpur.
The exhibition takes visitors on a journey of heritage connecting Malaysia’s 13 states in conjunction with National Day.
It carries the theme “Bersama Membina Negara Bangsa” (building a nation together) and comprises replicas of regional food as well as life-sized cutouts of couples dressed in traditional attire and elaborate accessories.
Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia (PNM) public relations officer Khadijah Aminah Md Yusoff said, “Each state has its own distinctive identity, but together they form a sovereign Malaysia.
“The life-sized cutouts are my favourite part of the exhibition because they clearly show the colours, patterns, accessories and distinctive styles of traditional attire from each state.
“The details are realistic enough for visitors to imagine their texture and how the garments would look and feel.”
Visitors can also learn the history and cultural heritage of the states through information drawn from books and reference materials in PNM’s collection, as well as online research.
Other highlights include replicas of musical instruments and heritage games.
Visitors are also invited to take part in “Coretan Perpaduan” by leaving messages about their hopes, inspiration and thoughts on unity on a whiteboard in the building’s lobby.
“We hope the exhibition will develop a better understanding of, and respect for, the country’s diverse cultures and traditions,” she added.
The exhibition is open from 10am to 7pm. Entry is free.
