KUCHING: Malaysia is set to showcase its rich living traditions to the world as Kelantan Wayang Kulit, Lion Dance Company and the Chingay parade move a step closer to inscription on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, with evaluations beginning in stages from 2026.
The country has also begun nominating the “24 Festive Drum”, adding another vibrant expression of Malaysian culture to its growing list of heritage pursuits.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said Kelantan Wayang Kulit is expected to enter the 2026 nomination cycle, followed by the Lion Dance and Chingay procession the next year.
The Lion Dance nomination is a joint effort with China, while the Chingay procession is being put forward together with Singapore.
This marks the second time Malaysia has collaborated with both countries on Unesco nominations, reflecting shared cultural roots across the region.
“The intangible cultural heritage elements of the Kelantan Wayang Kulit, Lion Dance and Chingay parade, which have completed the nomination process and are now in line for Unesco’s consideration, reflect Malaysia’s unique multicultural identity and offer experiences well worth discovering for visitors from around the world,” he told
Dayak Daily.
Tiong said Malaysia’s cultural profile has continued to rise globally since 2023, with more national assets gaining recognition on Unesco’s World Heritage and Intangible Cultural Heritage lists.
He added that the nomination process for the “24 Festive Drum”, a Malaysian-founded percussion art form, was initiated last year.
On sharing these traditions with global audiences, he said the Ministry organised 40 Malaysian cultural events abroad in 2025 in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“These events combine cultural performances, artistic showcases and food-tasting sessions, and were designed to give international audiences a first-hand experience of Malaysian culture and encourage deeper engagement through travel,” he said.
