Malaysian Art Showcases In Melbourne

From 11 to 18 November 2013, Australian art lovers, collectors and the public had the privilege of personally getting acquainted with Malaysian art at a special exhibition titled ‘Arts Kuala Lumpur – Melbourne: Discover Malaysia Art’ that took place at the prestigious Melbourne art gallery, MiFA Events.

Datuk Dr Wong Lai Sum, CEO of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) officiated the exhibition on 14 November in a festive ceremony that served authentic Malaysian delicacies such as the satay and teh tarik.

The official opening was also attended by The Hon. Bruce Atkinson, President of the Legislative Council of Victoria; and Deputy Lord Mayor Susan Riley, Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne. Also in attendance was the Malaysian Consul General to Victoria Dato’ Dr Mohamad Rameez Yahaya.

Wong, on behalf of the Malaysian Government, presented Riley a special Melbourne edition of Ch’ng’s ‘Salam’ sculpture as a gesture of friendship to the City of Melbourne. A second sculpture – ‘Salam – Victoria’ – was presented to National Gallery of Victoria.

The unprecedented event was the largest of its kind ever held and featured the works of 30 artists, ranging from Malaysian pioneer artists since the Independence to the young contemporary artists of modern Malaysia. Curated by Ch’ng Huck Theng, the exhibition was successful in generating great interest among art lovers in Melbourne.