Kuala Lumpur, December 13, 2024 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on educational institutions, including Universiti Malaya, and key national bodies such as the National Archives of Malaysia, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, and the National Library, to explore and leverage the profound cultural and historical insights presented in a new exhibition at the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (IAMM).
The exhibition, titled “Oceans that Speak: Islam and the Emergence of the Malay World,” was inaugurated on Thursday (Dec 13) by the Prime Minister, accompanied by his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
Celebrating Malay-Islamic Heritage
In his speech, Anwar emphasized the importance of studying the region’s storytelling traditions, particularly the pivotal role of Islam in shaping the dynamic Malay-Islamic cultural and artistic heritage. He described the exhibition as a unique and commendable initiative, remarking on its exceptional content and messages.
“This is a unique and commemorative exhibition. It’s not often we encounter an exhibition of this standard in the region. I follow developments closely, and this exhibition stands out in its presentation and significance,” Anwar stated.
Exhibition Highlights
The IAMM’s press release noted that the exhibition traces the evolution of the Malay Archipelago as a hub of global maritime trade and intellectual exchange, which facilitated the spread of Islam and secured a vibrant cultural legacy.
Among its highlights, the exhibition showcases the role of silversmiths, batik makers, and photographers, illustrating how the region’s maritime connections fostered cultural and artistic innovations. It also explores the legacy of the Spice Route, positioning the Malay world as a vital crossroads between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Open to the Public
The landmark exhibition, hailed as a celebration of the region’s cultural and artistic dynamism, is open to the public from Dec 13, 2024, to June 15, 2025.
Prime Minister Anwar’s remarks underscore the exhibition’s potential to deepen understanding of the Malay world’s rich heritage and inspire greater appreciation for the historical and cultural exchanges that shaped the region.
