Just-concluded Irama Asli & Asal 2024 Enhances Appreciation For Malaysia's Indigenous Communities

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- The inaugural IRAMA ASLI & ASAL 2024 concluded on Sunday with great success, drawing a large turnout at the venue and reaching international audiences through social media streaming.

The cultural extravaganza organized by the Yayasan Kesenian Orang Asli & Asal (YKOA), not only celebrated Malaysia’s indigenous culture but also served as a platform to raise essential funds for YKOA’s medical outreach projects for indigenous communities.

According to a post event statement from YKOA, the three day event at The Square, Publika, saw an impressive turnout with Nik Muhamad Faiszulikwan, a representative from Istana Budaya, officiating the opening ceremony alongside YKOA chairman Dr. Andre Ratos. 

Senator Bob Manolan, the representative for the Orang Asli in the Senate, was also in attendance, lending his support for cultural preservation and community well-being. Stalwarts of the project  Datin Pearl Jai Mohan, Dato Wong Yew Kai, and Dato Chua Soon Bui.(ex Tawau MP) were on hand to lend a helping hand.

A special highlight of the three day event  was the soulful performances by Christabelle Tatti, Miss Sarawak Ambassador IBF’24, who joined Anderson Kalang on stage for a heartfelt duet of “You Are the Reason”.

Their collaboration beautifully showcased the fusion of traditional and contemporary artistry, captivating the audience, the statement said. 

Both locals and tourist we enthralled by the rare to be seen Bateq tribe wearing their traditional bark costume , muscular from their daily foraging , they thought participants their survival skills.

The event that officially kicked off on Friday (22 Nov), with the bazaar, offering exquisite indigenous handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional foods by 15 indigenous vendors.

The success of this year’s event lays the foundation for future initiatives by YKOA, further enhancing awareness and appreciation for Malaysia’s indigenous communities, Dr Ratos said.

-- BERNAMA