Cultural showcase at new KL mall


A woman weaving ‘songket’ at the Kampung Baru section. — Handout

A new Kuala Lumpur mall marked National Day with a four-day celebration featuring Malaysian art, heritage, music and cultural activities.

The “Jiwa Merdeka” event at Ombak KLCC featured 69 activities in conjunction with the country’s 69th year of independence.

A woman weaving ‘songket’ at the Kampung Baru section. — Handout
A woman weaving ‘songket’ at the Kampung Baru section. — Handout

A key part of the programme was the Jiwa Merdeka Immersive Experience, which recreated three of Kuala Lumpur’s cultural neighbourhoods: Little India, Chinatown and Kampung Baru.

A delightful peacock kolam on display at the Little India section.
A delightful peacock kolam on display at the Little India section.

The Little India section featured saree draping, kolam and garland-making activities, as well as traditional performances.

Over at the Chinatown area, there were Chinese drums, fan making, calligraphy and ink painting.

Sheila performing during the Jiwa Merdeka celebration.
Sheila performing during the Jiwa Merdeka celebration.

Kampung Baru showcased songket weaving, batik painting and tradi­­­­­tional games such as congkak and batu seremban.

The cultural displays were complemented by Pasar Seloka, which featured several stalls offering local arts and crafts.

Music was also part of celebrations, with Malaysian icon Datuk Sheila Majid performing on the opening day.

Wave-inspired interior and skylight at Ombak KLCC, featuring sweeping curves and a multi-level atrium.
Wave-inspired interior and skylight at Ombak KLCC, featuring sweeping curves and a multi-level atrium.

Yuna, Dayang Nurfaizah, Reshmonu, Atilia, Vince Chong and DJ Santan were among the other performers.

KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd group chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Salem Kailany said the celebration was an effort by the shopping centre to bring different forms of Malaysian culture in one place.

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