THE Malaysian Craft Council (MCC) was recently recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) for Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paris, France.
MCC president Nik Faiz Nik Amin said the recognition also indirectly honoured local arts practitioners who come under the non-governmental organisation.
"This recognition is, of course, more meaningful for the arts and cultural practitioners who are members of MCC. We bring heritage arts such as 'kelingkan' and songket and empower these crafts through performing arts so that they remain relevant.
"Through this, they work hard to ensure that the cultural heritage is kept alive and preserved.
"With the Unesco recognition, we hope these crafts will continue to be respected and uplifted, especially for future generations," said Nik Faiz, who was present at the recent Unesco general assembly.
MCC received the recognition along with 57 other NGOs from around the world.
They include two from Malaysia, namely the National Writers Association of Malaysia (Pena) and Pusaka.
Actor and singer Arja Lee was also part of the MCC delegation to the event.
The 41-year-old artiste, whose real name is Azharudin Ramli, also serves as deputy president and executive director of media and publicity of MCC.
"This recognition not only elevates craft arts here — MCC also brings the Malaysia's performing arts portfolio to the eyes of the world," he said.
"We appreciate the bodies and organisations that provided support in developing artisan and community-oriented craft activities.
"These include the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac), Hasanah Foundation, MyCreative Ventures, and all NGOs or organisations that have worked together to make MCC's aspirations a success," he said.