In celebration of Malaysia’s National Day 2024, the Department of Social Sciences at IMU University hosted the MPU Cultural Week, themed “Echoes of the Past: Celebrating Cultural Heritage Preservation,” on 28 August 2024. The event, held at the university’s Atrium brought together more than 200 students and staff to honour Malaysia’s vibrant cultural diversity through traditional games, arts, and captivating performances.
The Atrium was buzzing with energy as participants, both young and old, immersed themselves in nostalgic childhood games that embody Malaysia’s unique cultural essence. Attendees had the chance to engage in traditional activities passed down through generations, including:
Guli (Marbles):
A test of precision, where players aimed to knock marbles out of a circle.
Batu Seremban (Five Stones):
A challenge of agility and coordination using small beanbags.
Ular Tangga (Snakes and Ladders):
A game symbolising life’s ups and downs.
Pemadam (Eraser Battle):
A playful classroom competition that rekindled fond memories of school days.
Teng Teng (Hopscotch):
A game requiring balance and speed as players hopped from square to square.
Catur Cina (Chinese Chess):
A traditional strategy game that challenged mental sharpness.
Congkak:
A beloved game of counting and strategy played with a wooden board and seeds.
Galah Panjang (Long Poles):
A thrilling game of teamwork, agility, and quick reflexes.
Tapak Gajah (Elephant Feet):
A balancing challenge as players raced on stilts.
Carrom:
A tabletop game similar to billiards with a local twist.
Magunatip:
A lively traditional dance from Sabah that captivated the audience.
Wau (Kite Flying):
An opportunity to learn the art of crafting and flying Malaysia’s iconic traditional kites.
Tarian Naga (Dragon Dance):
A visually stunning performance symbolising strength and prosperity.
Lompat Getah (Rubber Band Skipping):
A creative and energetic skipping game using rubber bands.
The event offered participants the opportunity to relive cherished memories or explore new aspects of Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. MPU Cultural Week successfully underscored the importance of preserving these timeless traditions, fostering a deep sense of national pride and unity among students, staff, and visitors.
The festive atmosphere, combined with interactive sessions and live demonstrations, made this cultural celebration a highlight of IMU’s National Day festivities. As Malaysia continues to progress and modernise, initiatives like MPU Cultural Week serve as a vital reminder of the significance of cultural preservation in maintaining the nation’s diverse and storied past.
Written by Muhamad Atlizan Bin Darlis
Edited by Dr Arlini binti Alias
