Unique traditions and ways of life within each community add vibrancy to our world. By preserving these cultures, we ensure future generations can enjoy and carry on this rich heritage. Safeguarding cultural heritage is not just about keeping the past alive; it’s about nurturing a future where we all benefit from this diversity. This preservation opens doors to education and tourism while celebrating the beauty of our world’s variety.
At BXCT, we are committed to UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 11.4, which focuses on protecting cultural and natural heritage, and SDG 4, which promotes quality education. Through engaging field trips and community initiatives, we help young people connect with diverse traditions and understand the importance of preserving them for the generations to come.
Immersing Children in Culture
BXCT is passionate about involving young people in the mission to preserve valuable traditions. Recently, we took a group of 64 children on an exciting trip to Mah Meri Cultural Village, a community that has preserved its rich heritage for over 3,000 years. The students, eager to experience the indigenous way of life, filled two buses with excitement as they journeyed to the village. Their enthusiasm reflects the keen interest young people have in learning about cultural heritage.
Experiencing Tradition First-Hand
Upon arrival, the children were warmly welcomed with traditional headdresses, refreshing drinks, and captivating dances. They dove headfirst into village life, trying out Lastik, a traditional hunting game, and even participating in a mock wedding ceremony, complete with costumes and a group photo to commemorate the occasion.
One highlight of the trip was learning about wood carvings, a significant ritual in Mah Meri culture. These intricate mahogany spirit sculptures symbolise animals once hunted by the villagers. The children were captivated by the artistry, the level of detail, and the stories behind the carvings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Mah Meri’s spiritual beliefs.
The children also enjoyed crafting Bunga Moyang, or Flowers of the Spirits, using leaf origami. This ancient practice allows the Mah Meri to honour the spirits of their ancestors and is a skill they perfected long before origami gained popularity elsewhere. The children were thrilled to create their own Bunga Moyang, serving as a memento from their unforgettable day.
Walking Through History
The Mah Meri & UNESCO galleries offer an insightful walking tour, showcasing the village's rich culture and traditions. To wrap up their visit, the students explored a Souvenirs Shop featuring a diverse range of beautifully handcrafted items, intricate carvings, and other memorabilia made by the Orang Asli community. The children had the opportunity to take home a piece of Mah Meri heritage, ensuring that the experience would stay with them long after they returned home.
Preserving Cultural Diversity
This trip was more than just an educational outing; it deepened the students' understanding of cultural diversity and the importance of heritage conservation. They left with a greater respect for the traditions of the Mah Meri people, recognising the value of keeping these practices alive.
At BXCT, we are committed to sustainable tourism that respects and uplifts local communities. Our aim is to ensure that cultural heritage is appreciated and preserved, contributing to a more inclusive world where diversity thrives.
By celebrating local traditions, we’re helping to build a more inclusive future—one rich in cultural diversity for generations to enjoy.
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