KUALA LUMPUR: MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said cultural diversity is a national strength that will make Malaysia more competitive on the international stage.
He said cultural diversity shouldn’t be seen as a difficulty or a challenge.
“Cultural diversity should be a source of strength and pride, it should teach us how to be strong in spite of our differences.
“It can instill character and nurture citizens who are open and progressive through a sense of unity for the advancement of the nation.
“As a nation we can only achieve success through harmony and unity,” he told reporters during the launch of the Blossom Arts Festival Malaysia at Wisma MCA here today.
Liow, who is also Transport Minister, called on Malaysians to strike a balance between materialistic ambition and spirituality, with commitment to embracing diversity.
The Blossom Arts Festival, organised by the Malaysian Chinese Culture and Arts Consultative Council and MCA, as a practical way to support and promote the development of Malaysian Chinese and diversified culture and arts.
Programmes at the month-long event will include art performances such as singing, cross-talking, dancing and presentation of musical instrument, art exhibitions on Chinese calligraphy, installation arts and more.
Stage shows by renowned performers such as dancer and choreographer Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Aswara Dance Company and Temple of Fine Arts will also be held.
Country and folk activities such as cross-talking forums on tea art, Bonsai, Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging art), traditional activities, family activities and drawing competition will also be available in the festival.
For more information, please visit the event website at www.blossomartsfestival.my