Soka Gakai’s Merdeka show features multi-cultural performances

IT WAS a dazzling display of multicultural unity as dancers in bright costumes moved gracefully to lively tunes at a cultural night organised by the Soka Gakai Malaysia Johor chapter to commemorate the nation’s 51st National Day.

Organising chairman Chang Wee Leong said the aim was to promote Malaysia as a multicultural society living in harmony.

“The main objective is to strenghten ties between people of various races and encourage youths to partake in healthy activities,” he said.

Let’s roll: Chang (front, left) and Cher (front, right) beating Chinese drums to signal theevent’s launch.

For SJK (T) Rem Kota Tinggi headmaster R. Paramahwary, 44, who attended the show with her husband S. Bala, the show was mesmerising.

“It was worth coming all the way from Kota Tinggi and we really enjoyed the dances,” said Paramahwary, adding that it was the first time they attended such an event.

“Everything was well-organised and the sense of harmony was there. We will definitely attend such events in future,” said Bala.

Impressive: Performers forming a human wall signifying the country’s development.

Rosnah Hassim, a teacher with the Kota Tinggi Sri Cahaya education centre for disabled children, who were specially invited for the event, felt the night was meaningful.

“It was a rare opportunity for the kids to attend such a show. I would like to thank the organisers for providing the transportation as it would have been difficult to travel with 30 children,” she said.

Sea creature: Oneof the performers ina lobster costume.

Johor Jaya state assemblyman Tan Cher Puk, who launched the event, said that cultural gatherings such as this strengthened ties and tightened bonds between the different races.

“You can learn more about each other’s cultures and respect them,” he said.

A total of 400 performers and production workers were involved in the event.