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The Sun
10-07-2025
- General
- The Sun
Malaysia urged to reinvent its textile legacy
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are being urged to safeguard the nation's rich textile heritage by embracing innovation and reimagining tradition for the modern age. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said traditional textiles, each unique in motif, material and craftsmanship, remain a vital part of the country's living heritage. He said to keep textile traditions alive, the real challenge is not only in ensuring their survival but also that they evolve responsibly in today's world. 'Sustainability in textiles must encompass eco-friendly production, fair treatment of artisans and the passing down of skills to younger generations. 'I take pride in the fact that Malaysia's songket was recognised by Unesco and inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. 'Our heritage holds the potential to build a textile industry that is both environmentally sustainable and culturally significant,' he said in his speech at the Asean Fabrics Symposium 2025 yesterday. Aaron also said museums must go beyond preserving the past and become drivers of contemporary relevance and regional collaboration. 'Through exhibitions, symposiums and co-creative programmes, museums can inspire public dialogue, facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer and drive cultural sustainability at both the national and Asean levels.' In the Asean context, he sees museums as potential regional hubs for collaboration, enabling joint research on textile heritage, cross-border exhibitions and skills development for curators, artisans and cultural leaders. 'We must see museums not as passive repositories but as active platforms for collaboration, where artisans, academics, communities and policymakers come together to transform heritage into shared value. 'These partnerships hold the power to bridge divides and elevate our collective Southeast Asian identity on the global stage.' He expressed pride that the Museums Department has been actively involved in regional dialogues and remains committed to strengthening such cooperation. 'We are currently exploring opportunities for an Asean museum network centred on sustainable heritage and cultural innovation.' Aaron also expressed hope that more efforts would be made to inspire future joint nominations to Unesco, similar to the recent recognition of the kebaya, jointly submitted by Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand. 'Such efforts not only honour our shared traditions but also reflect our collective commitment to cultural diplomacy and unity.'
What's On
03-07-2025
- General
- What's On
The UAE heritage files: The majlis
In this installment of the UAE heritage files, an exploration of the rich and ravishing Emirati culture, tradition and hospitality, we're taking a deep dive into the majlis, a cornerstone of Emirati culture. As residents of this foreign country we choose to call our own, we must learn the way of the land we love, and the majlis is as deeply ingrained in this society as can be. If you've lived in the UAE long enough, you've seen a majlis, talked about a majlis, or at least came across a mention of it. In the present Understanding the importance of a majlis comes from the meaning of the word itself – council or sitting place. A majlis is essentially the social centre of a typical Emirati domestic setting, a place where members of the community gather to socialise, discuss community matters and flourish hospitality to their guests. While the majlis is a vital hub of the home, locally, the custom is that the majlis space for men and women is separate. These spaces, traditionally massive rectangular halls featuring a seating set-up of cushions and mattresses lining the walls, reflect the religious inclination of Emirati society, in which open interaction between strange men and women is looked at more conservatively. In a way, it also provides guests, especially women, to socialise in a more relaxed manner. Globally, the majlis has been recognised and inscribed in 2015 on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. History The majlis was a tented meeting place where warm hospitality would be extended to guests before top-level political and business meetings. Ahead of negotiations, guests would be welcomed here first, a custom that was first established thousands of years ago since this region has been trading with the Silk Route. People also gathered here for a number of reasons – to discuss local events, exchange news, resolve problems, pay condolences, host wedding receptions and give religious clerics a space to clarify political, social and religious rights and responsibilities. Spinning the wheel of society If you study any civilisation, you will find that a community space like the majlis shapes up to become a preservation site for the culture and heritage of that society. Places where people meet to exchange dialogue automatically play an important role in the transfer of oral heritage, including folk stories, folk songs and 'Nabati' poetry, in the case of the Emirates. These are places where culture is imbibed by the next generation, as majlises are open to all age groups and knowledge is mostly transmitted informally to the children who accompany older community members, family and friends on their visits. Through observing elders in the Majlis, the children learn the manners and ethics of their community, dialogue and listening skills, and respect for the opinion of others. Images: Getty/UNESCO > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Bengal ranks third among foreign tourists' fave Indian destinations
1 2 Kolkata: Bengal has emerged as one of India's top tourism hotspots for foreign travellers, clocking a record 32 lakh international tourist arrivals in 2023–24 — the third highest in the country after Maharashtra and Gujarat, Bengal's tourism minister Indranil Sen said in the assembly on Thursday. This marks a significant jump from 27.1 lakh in 2022–23 and just 10.4 lakh in 2021–22, underscoring the state's growing global appeal and tourism turnaround post-Covid, he said. Sen said the state accounted for 14.8% of India's foreign tourist arrivals last year. "This is a huge achievement. Bengal is firmly on the international tourism map," Sen said in response to a question by BJP MLA Bishwanath Karak. The data, sourced from 'India Tourism Statistics 2023' released by the Union ministry of tourism, places Bengal alongside national tourism giants. Sen debunked a common perception that a bulk of Bengal's foreign tourist inflow is limited to visitors from neighbouring Bangladesh. "Only 1.8 lakh out of the 32 lakh foreign tourists came from Bangladesh. Over 27 lakh were from Europe, Russia, and Australia," he said. One of the biggest tourism magnets remains Kolkata's Durga Puja, which was inscribed in Unesco's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search ads Learn More Undo In 2023, during the festival period from Mahalaya to Diwali, the city welcomed over 5 lakh foreign visitors — with trade estimates suggesting at least 20,000 were international travellers during the five puja days in Kolkata. Anil Punjabi, national committee member of Travel Agents Federation of India, said, "We are already getting puja bookings from Canada, Spain, Europe and UK. The festive charm, the craftsmanship on display, and Bengal's value-for-money factor make it an irresistible destination during this time." Hill stations, particularly Darjeeling and Kurseong, are also witnessing a massive influx of foreign visitors. "Bengal's hill stations are now more preferred than overcrowded destinations like Shimla and Kullu-Manali. Tea tourism is popular too," said Manav Soni, national committee member of Travel Agents Association of India. Purulia and Bankura — once peripheral to Bengal's tourism economy — are now gaining traction. Launched on April 22, an eco-tourism centre near Ayodhya Hills run by local enthusiasts has already reported 87% occupancy, Sen said. The Purulia Tourism Development Council has been formed to assist local tourism stakeholders and attract more visitors. Bengal has also taken a pioneering step in professionalising its tourism industry. The state now boasts the highest number of certified tourist guides in the country — 1,022 — trained under its Tourist Guide Certification Scheme. Bengal's strategic location as a gateway to the Northeast has also given it a dual advantage. Tourists exploring states like Sikkim, Assam, and Meghalaya often transit through Bengal. New spiritual landmarks, like the Jagannath temple in Digha, are also becoming major pilgrimage and tourist attractions, travel agents said.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Paddles Up: Race into Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival
Join the 9 Days and Nights of Festivities Against Victoria Harbour's Iconic Skyline Experience the thrilling Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races in Tsim Sha Tsui—where strength meets tradition! (Photo Credits: SHOTCOURT) HONG KONG, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The boats are fierce, the drums are loud and the energy is electric – Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival is back in spectacular style! Each year, this high-adrenaline celebration draws elite paddlers from around the world to compete in one of the city's most anticipated summer events. While races take place citywide, the spotlight will shine on the 2025 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, returning to Victoria Harbour from 7-8 June. Cheer for your favourite team on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and snap epic action shots of the dragon boat races! The race will transform the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade into a festival hotspot each year. This year, over 190 teams from 12 countries and regions, including teams from Qatar and Egypt for the first time, will compete in high-energy races set against Hong Kong's iconic skyline, drawing cheering crowds of locals and visitors alike. The 9 Days and Nights of Festivities Against Victoria Harbour's Iconic Skyline To mark the start of Dragon Boat Festival and build up momentum ahead of the races, HKTB is hosting 9 days and nights of action-packed celebrations starting 31 May along the photogenic Avenue of Stars. From 1pm to 10pm daily, visitors can look forward to festive foods, icy-cold beverages, summery sweets and photo opportunities galore with the dazzling harbour as a backdrop. The area will also include festive photo spots with displays of Ocean Park Hong Kong's adorable Panda Friends – the giant pandas An An, Ke Ke, Ying Ying, and Le Le, along with the adorable twin cubs Elder Sister and Little Brother. A special pop-up store will offer a selection of panda-themed merchandise. As the action peaks on 7-8 June, spectators can enjoy free entry and shaded viewing areas along the waterfront from Tsim Sha Tsui East to the Avenue of Stars. In Urban Council Centenary Garden, refreshing beers will be available at a lively Beer Garden set up to beat the summer heat and Cirque du Soleil performers will delight attendees with surprise appearances during the event. Find out more details of the event at the Hong Kong Tourism Board's event website. A Month of Tradition, Craft and Celebration Dragon Boat Festival was inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. With its deep cultural roots, the Dragon Boat Festival aligns perfectly with inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month—a celebration in June that invites visitors to experience Hong Kong's cultural richness. Visitors can participate in highlight tours to explore the ICH-related traditional craftsmanship, such as bamboo steamer-making techniques, etc. Sign up for the tour at the Hong Kong International Airport Visitor Centre or Kowloon Visitor Centre starting 9 June, or visit the Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 website for more details. Whether you're drawn by the thrilling races, immersive festivals or deep-rooted traditions, late May and June is the perfect time to experience Hong Kong. The city welcomes visitors with a packed calendar of events that honour the past while embracing the present. Media can download photos at the following link: For media enquiries, please contact: Ms Holly ChanTel : 2807 6206Email: Ms Sarah HoTel : 2807 6372Email : Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Paddles Up: Race into Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival
Join the 9 Days and Nights of Festivities Against Victoria Harbour's Iconic Skyline Experience the thrilling Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races in Tsim Sha Tsui—where strength meets tradition! (Photo Credits: SHOTCOURT) HONG KONG, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The boats are fierce, the drums are loud and the energy is electric – Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival is back in spectacular style! Each year, this high-adrenaline celebration draws elite paddlers from around the world to compete in one of the city's most anticipated summer events. While races take place citywide, the spotlight will shine on the 2025 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, returning to Victoria Harbour from 7-8 June. Cheer for your favourite team on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and snap epic action shots of the dragon boat races! The race will transform the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade into a festival hotspot each year. This year, over 190 teams from 12 countries and regions, including teams from Qatar and Egypt for the first time, will compete in high-energy races set against Hong Kong's iconic skyline, drawing cheering crowds of locals and visitors alike. The 9 Days and Nights of Festivities Against Victoria Harbour's Iconic Skyline To mark the start of Dragon Boat Festival and build up momentum ahead of the races, HKTB is hosting 9 days and nights of action-packed celebrations starting 31 May along the photogenic Avenue of Stars. From 1pm to 10pm daily, visitors can look forward to festive foods, icy-cold beverages, summery sweets and photo opportunities galore with the dazzling harbour as a backdrop. The area will also include festive photo spots with displays of Ocean Park Hong Kong's adorable Panda Friends – the giant pandas An An, Ke Ke, Ying Ying, and Le Le, along with the adorable twin cubs Elder Sister and Little Brother. A special pop-up store will offer a selection of panda-themed merchandise. As the action peaks on 7-8 June, spectators can enjoy free entry and shaded viewing areas along the waterfront from Tsim Sha Tsui East to the Avenue of Stars. In Urban Council Centenary Garden, refreshing beers will be available at a lively Beer Garden set up to beat the summer heat and Cirque du Soleil performers will delight attendees with surprise appearances during the event. Find out more details of the event at the Hong Kong Tourism Board's event website. A Month of Tradition, Craft and Celebration Dragon Boat Festival was inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. With its deep cultural roots, the Dragon Boat Festival aligns perfectly with inaugural Hong Kong ICH Month—a celebration in June that invites visitors to experience Hong Kong's cultural richness. Visitors can participate in highlight tours to explore the ICH-related traditional craftsmanship, such as bamboo steamer-making techniques, etc. Sign up for the tour at the Hong Kong International Airport Visitor Centre or Kowloon Visitor Centre starting 9 June, or visit the Hong Kong ICH Month 2025 website for more details. Whether you're drawn by the thrilling races, immersive festivals or deep-rooted traditions, late May and June is the perfect time to experience Hong Kong. The city welcomes visitors with a packed calendar of events that honour the past while embracing the present. Media can download photos at the following link: For media enquiries, please contact: Ms Holly ChanTel : 2807 6206Email: Ms Sarah HoTel : 2807 6372Email : Photos accompanying this announcement are available at : in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
