Jalur Gemilang, Music And Poetry: How Man Kayan Brings Patriotism To Life

By Afifitri Muhammad

KUANTAN, Aug 19 (Bernama) -- With a captivating mix of poetry, music and the majestic flutter of the Jalur Gemilang, Pahang poet and musician Noor Azman Norawi, 58, sought to ignite a wave of patriotism in celebration of National Month.

The passion of the art activist, popularly known as Man Kayan, resonated throughout the art space, Kelab Serindit Mati Tersepit, in Kampung Permatang Badak. The club came alive with dozens of Jalur Gemilang, vibrant artistic displays, and an array of cultural activities, creating a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s spirit.

He explained that the inspiration stemmed purely from the impulse of his own heart, without any expectation of praise or pressure from others.

“We do it because we want to, and it brings joy to our hearts. This spirit of independence doesn’t need to be dictated - it should be celebrated voluntarily, just as we celebrate Aidilfitri,” he told Bernama today.

He added that the flag decorations adorning his club are more than a symbol of patriotism - they also serve as an inviting backdrop for visitors to capture photographs while embracing the spirit of independence.

“Alhamdulillah, most of the visitors enjoyed this atmosphere. Some even took photos and used them as inspiration to decorate their own homes. This way, the spirit can continue to flourish,” he said.

The Kelab Serindit Mati Tersepit, founded by Man Kayan, is an art space that reflects his philosophy of nurturing young talents. He compares those who are overlooked or denied opportunities to the ‘serindit’ or blue-crowned hanging parrot trapped in death, symbolising potential that may be stifled but never truly lost.

The club serves as a platform for young artists to come together, collaborate, and merge their talents in poetry, music, and culture, allowing them to grow collectively.

Meanwhile, Man Kayan emphasised the importance of understanding the country’s history and struggles to truly appreciate the meaning of independence. He stressed that any creation should have a ‘spirit’, so that decorations are not merely superficial or ‘a body without a soul.’

“When we understand the hardships of previous generations in securing independence, we can truly value the blessings we enjoy today. What we create must have a soul, not just exist as empty decoration,” he said.

Speaking about the significance of his art and music, Noor Azman said he places great emphasis on instilling gratitude and the value of love in works that celebrate independence and patriotism.

“Truly ‘merdeka’ (independent) people are those whose souls are free from envy, jealousy, and slander. A peaceful soul creates meaningful works, filled with love and beneficial to others,” he said. 

Apart from managing the club as a creative space for young artists, Man Kayan will also participate in an eight-hour non-stop poetry reading programme with Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) students this month, in conjunction with the National Day celebration.

“The project was initially planned to take place here at the club, in collaboration with UMPSA. However, due to unpredictable weather and the difficulty of installing a suitable canopy, we decided to hold it at UMPSA instead, where the facilities are complete and the students can fully participate," he explained.

-- BERNAMA