SHAH ALAM, Oct 1 — Traditional dances and Malay heritage attire from Selangor were showcased in Wellington, New Zealand, in conjunction with the 68th National Day and Malaysia Day 2025 Cultural Diplomacy Programme.
State executive councillor for culture and housing Datuk Borhan Aman Shah said that the theme 'Gemalai dan Tenunan: A Cultural Immersion', the programme elevated the heritage of Malay dance and weaving onto the world stage.
“Selangor is very proud that the Selangor Malay Customs and Heritage Corporation (Padat) cultural troupe stood on the global stage of the St James Theatre, performing traditional dances and Malay heritage attire.
“The performances included the Ronggeng Selangor, Jo’oh Mah Meri, Wau Kapal, and Hati Kama dances, as well as the Tarian Warna Muhibbah. In addition, Malay heritage attire from Selangor was featured, including the Kebaya Selangor, Batik Selangor, Baju Sikap, Kelingkan, and Telepuk.
“It was presented before diplomats, the Malaysian diaspora, Malaysian students and international friends in New Zealand,” he said in a Facebook post.
Borhan added that in conjunction with the Visit Selangor Year 2025 campaign, maps and tourism directories of the state were also distributed as part of efforts to introduce the Selangor's tourism charm on the international stage.
“Such cultural diplomacy is not just about the arts, but a bridge of friendship that opens doors to collaboration in tourism, education and the creative economy,” he said.
Previously, the uniqueness of the Mah Meri mask dance enlivened the Selangor Week exhibition at the Malaysia Pavilion in conjunction with Expo Osaka 2025 in Kansai, Japan.
