From dondang sayang to silat, eight Malaysian heritage arts now recognised by Unesco

PASIR PUTEH, July 5 — Eight Malaysian cultural arts have received recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) since 2014, reflecting international appreciation of the country’s heritage.

National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) director-general Mohd Amran Mohd Haris said the achievement was the result of close cooperation between the National Heritage Department and JKKN in preserving and elevating traditional arts on the global stage.

He said among the recognised heritage elements are Mak Yong, Silat, Mek Mulung and Dondang Sayang, while Dikir Barat is being considered for nomination.

“Unesco recognition adds value as it helps attract foreign tourists to experience a country’s culture, as seen in Melaka and Penang,” he said at the closing ceremony of the Kelantan Folk Arts Festival (FKRK) 2026 at Tok Bali Tourist Jetty here last night.

On traditional arts in Kelantan, he said the state govt’s approach of allowing performances such as Main Puteri and Menora, as long as they comply with regulations and are free from superstition, is welcomed.

He said this helps preserve traditional arts while ensuring they are practised appropriately.

Meanwhile, Mohd Amran said FKRK 2026 is the fifth Cultural Tourism Programme under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) through JKKN, in a series of 16 programmes planned nationwide for Visit Malaysia 2026.

He said the festival shows how culture and tourism can work together to support the local economy and promote the state’s identity.

The four-day festival attracted between 100,000 and 150,000 visitors, featuring cultural performances such as Mak Yong, Dikir Barat, Wayang Kulit and Menora, along with traditional competitions and exhibitions showcasing Kelantan’s heritage.

Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud was also present. — Bernama