Delay in Penang Arts Council creating uncertainties among artists, says assemblyperson

The delay in setting up the proposed Penang Arts Council (PAC) has created uncertainties among the arts and culture community in the state, said a DAP assemblyperson.

Syerleena Abdul Rashid (DAP-Seri Delima) said the PAC was meant to bring together all artists under one canopy, to showcase new talents and to organise programmes for arts groups, their fans and tourists from all over the world.

"Imagine the largest independent art space in Southeast Asia, where there is much coverage and opportunity to create, where the artworks will be appreciated and celebrated," she said while debating Penang 2020 Budget at the State Legislative Assembly.

"However, we still have to resolve some issues about allocation, and who will take ownership? Who will be members of PAC?

"What are the functions and policies which we need to propose? How can this council act as an umbrella organisation to strengthen the state arts and culture in the state?" She asked.

Syerleena said a Penang Arts Council had been proposed to the state exco arts, culture and heritage that is chaired by Yeoh Soon Hin (DAP-Paya Terubong).

Syerleena has called on the state to preserve the Penang House of Music as a state heritage as it is a reservoir of the history of Malaysian musicians, especially from Penang.

She said Penang should put in more effort to publicise and promote programmes to help extend the "longevity" of the Penang House of Music.

She said the proposal to incorporate the Penang House of Music into the Penang Museum us a good idea welcomed by all Penangites.

"I am confident that this will put Penang in the spotlight once again. This time as the birthplace and the heartbeat of Malaysian music," Syerleena said.

She said Penang has produced many artists and musicians, including the late P Ramlee - who was a singer, actor, musician and Malay lyricist from Penang.

Syerleena also cited the name of famous composer Ahmad Nawab, another Penangite, who has produced 2,000 songs for several artistes.

She also mentioned musician Ooi Eow Jin, another Penangite, who is a musical legend active in the 1970s.

"These three names have contributed much to this nation.

And the significance of the Penang House of Music is to preserve their memories.

"Perhaps, the Paya Terubong assemblyperson can raise this issue?" she urged Yeoh. - Mkini