Competitive spirit, friendship shine at Hainan-Malaysia volleyball match
During the breaks in the match, a special Malaysian cultural performance organized by the Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia heightened the atmosphere at the venue.
The performers presented a diverse array of acts, including a rendition of the popular Malaysian folk song Rasa Sayang and a traditional Chinese percussion piece 24 Festive Drums.
Lined up in a row were single-skinned drums inscribed with the words "spring equinox", "minor cold", "awakening of insects", and other seasonal terms. The 24 Festive Drums is a percussion performance created by the Malaysian Chinese community in 1988 and was designated as intangible cultural heritage of Malaysia in 2009. This drum performance brims with Chinese cultural elements, showcasing actions such as farmers tilling the land in spring or harvesting in autumn, with intricate formations and varied rhythms. What sets it apart is the absence of a drum score - each drummer relies on their imagination and creativity to compose the music.
"This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. We look forward to seeing more individuals contribute to the friendship between China and Malaysia," said Dato' Lim Chiew Ah, president of the Malaysia Hainan Chamber of Commerce. "Sports are effective in engaging the participation of young people, while culture can foster mutual understanding between nations. Through events, we hope to enhance cultural exchanges and boost tourism and economic ties between the two countries."
President Datuk George Yong Ket How of the Federation of Hainan Association Malaysia said that the federation intends to facilitate the increased visits of overseas Chinese residing in Malaysia to Hainan province this year.
