Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

Salam Sejahtera dan Salam 1 Malaysia

Yang dihormati Profesor Emeritus Dr. Muhammad Haji Salleh, Sasterawan Negara, serta pelengkapnya, Puan Norani Mohd Salleh,

Yang Berusaha Puan Zahariah Abdul Rahman, Pengurus Besar Kanan, Bahagian Komunikasi Strategik, PETRONAS,

Yang Berusaha Encik Joseph Edwin, Pengarah, GALERI PETRONAS,

Para Seniman dan Warga Seni,

Rakan-rakan Media,

Para hadirin yang dihormati sekalian.

Alhamdulillah, marilah kita bersama-sama merafakkan kesyukuran ke hadrat Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala kerana atas limpah izin dan kurniaNya jua, kita dapat bersama-sama bertemu di dalam majlis yang sungguh bermakna pada petang ini, sempena pelancaran penerbitan buku “ALEGORI: EKSPRESI SENI KONTEMPORARI BERASASKAN MANUSKRIP MELAYU”.

2. Dalam konteks penerbitan ini, “ALEGORI” mencerminkan suatu metafora yang menuntut penafsiran mendalam mengenai sesuatu peristiwa. Nilai-nilai yang terkandung dalam intipati tersirat, yang bukan hanya mengetengahkan konsep peradaban, malah cukup kaya dengan kehalusan budi, akhlak dan sifat-sifat keinsanan. Lebih dari itu, perkataan “ALEGORI” itu sendiri merumuskan tatasusila dan identiti Bangsa Melayu yang terus relevan hingga ke hari ini.

Tuan-Tuan dan Puan-Puan yang saya hormati sekalian,

3. Galeri PETRONAS amat bangga dapat mengadakan majlis pelancaran penerbitan buku ALEGORI ini. Ianya sebahagian komitmen berterusan kami kepada “Amanah” dan tanggungjawab untuk terus memperkukuhkan ekosistem yang positif bagi pertumbuhan dan penjiwaan warisan seni dan budaya rakyat Malaysia. Terutama sekali, dalam pemeliharaan estetika dan budaya asli Malaysia dengan memberikan perspektif yang lebih mendalam kepada pemahaman sejarah dan juga budaya Bangsa Melayu. Bukan sahaja di Tanah Air kita, malah di seluruh pelusuk Nusantara.

4. Pameran ini yang telah dibuka kepada awam sejak November 2017, dapat membawa kita menerokai pemikiran metaforikal dari pelbagai manuskrip klasik Melayu yang mengutarakan daya estetika budaya Bangsa Melayu. Antara manuskrip klasik Melayu yang dapat kita renungi bersama di dalam Pameran ini adalah seperti Sejarah Melayu, Hikayat Hang Tuah, Siti Zubaidah, Taj as-Salatin, Adab Raja-Raja, Hukum Kanun Melaka dan banyak lagi.

5. Artifak dan manuskrip yang dipamerkan ini, yang dikumpul seawal abad ke-17, berasaskan ilmu pengetahuan daripada disiplin-disiplin tertentu menggambarkan perihal sudut pandangan dunia masyarakat Melayu pada ketika itu yang seterusnya membentuk asas jati diri bangsa. Melalui Pameran ini, ia memberi peluang kepada semua lapisan masyarakat untuk menghargai dan menghayati ekspresi-ekspresi seni terkini yang telah diilhamkan oleh kearifan manuskrip klasik Melayu.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

6. A selection of 10 contemporary installation artworks by South East Asian regional and local artists showcase the region’s singular appropriation of elements of tradition in this Exhibition. These artworks are by:

i. Bapak Nasirun and Ibu Titarubi from Indonesia;
ii. Alwin Reamillo from Phillipines;
iii. Myanmar’s Htein Lin;
iv. From Vietnam, we have Nguyen Phuong Linh; and
v. Malaysia’s very own Samsudin Wahab, Mohd Azlan Mohd Latib, Andrialis Abdul Rahman; together with Nur Aniza Mohd Lazim and Intan Natasha Abdul Azim, Fadzil Idris and Syafiq Ali’am.

7. Collectively, they demonstrate that installation art is not purely exclusive domain of the West, but has always been integral to the artistry of the Malay world as well. As such, these artworks are critical devices in the audience’s involvement and reflection, as well as probing their own cultural aesthetics.

8. As Professor Dr Muhammad Zainiy Uthman, clearly pointed out in the Book and I quote :

“The Malay language elucidates and clarifies for the mind to think, contemplate, and delve into certainty of the heart, to discourse on intellectual and scientific ideas, to compose distinguished scientific and intellectual works using words impregnated with sublime meaning. The Malay language is a medium for works that exude the fineness of wisdom and the lucidity of the intellect.”

9. This publication delves into detailed expositions from various subjects and practices of a civilisation ranging from history; law and jurisprudence; weaponry and craftsmanship – – to laws of nature which are advanced into medicinal, seafaring and astronomy.

10. These are subjects which are still prevalent today in pursuit of contemporary civilisations with views and approaches deeply rooted in the rich grounds of values and culture. In fact, Values and Culture are two of the very essential foundations of PETRONAS’ own pursuit of excellence since its inception.

11. This 231-page publication is a collection of essays on Malay manuscripts that reflects the original thinking and wisdom of Malay society which is aimed at carving deeper understanding and appreciation of one’s own history and culture rather than wholly adapting non-native customs and traditions. It also features rarely seen photographs of valuable and exceptional artworks, artefacts and manuscripts such as Taj as-Salatin, Bustan as-Salatin, Nasihat al-Muluk amongst others, giving a distinctive appeal to the Book.

Tuan-Tuan dan Puan-Puan sekalian,

12. Penerbitan sebegini tidak akan tercapai tanpa kerjasama erat dari pelbagai organisasi, institusi dan individu-individu tertentu. Penerbitan buku ALEGORI ini merupakan kolaborasi kedua di antara GALERI PETRONAS dan Institut Terjemahan Buku Malaysia (ITBM), berikutan penerbitan yang terdahulu iaitu “Young Malaysian Artist: III Object(ion)” pada tahun 2016. Saya berharap dan yakin kolaborasi ini akan berterusan dalam menjana lebih banyak karya ilmu yang relevan untuk generasi hari ini dan yang akan datang.

13. Bagi pihak GALERI PETRONAS, saya ingin mengambil kesempatan ini untuk merakamkan setinggi-tinggi penghargaan kepada semua rakan-rakan projek, para seniman yang terlibat, individu-individu yang telah sudi meminjamkan karya seni mereka, dan penghargaan khusus buat para penulis atas sumbangan mereka dalam penerbitan Buku ALEGORI ini. Mereka terdiri daripada:

i. Sasterawan Negara Profesor Emeritus Dr. Muhammad Haji Salleh;
ii. Datuk Dr. Annabel Teh Gallop dari British Library, London, United Kingdom;
iii. Profesor Dr. Ding Choo Ming dari Institut Alam & Tamadun Melayu (ATMA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM);
iv. Dr. Harun Mat Piah, pengarang dan penyelidik manuskrip;
v. Profesor Dr. Jelani Harun dari Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM);
vi. Dr. Muhammad Pauzi dari Muzium Warisan Melayu, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM);
vii. Profesor Dr. Muhammad Zainiy Uthman, serta Profesor Dr. Tatiana Denisova dari Pusat Kajian Tinggi Islam, Sains dan Peradaban, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM);
viii. Encik Wan Hasbullah Wan Mohd Dasuki dan Puan Siti Radziah Mustafa dari Universiti Malaya (UM); dan
ix. Puan Nisah Harun, Penyelidik Kajian Melayu.

Juga tidak ketinggalan, lain-lain Rakan kolaborasi termasuklah Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Institut Terjemahan Buku Malaysia (ITBM), Layar Consult Sdn Bhd dan Epson Malaysia.

14. Pameran ALEGORI ini juga merupakan program satelit bagi Kuala Lumpur Bianalle 2017 yang julung kalinya diadakan di Malaysia; berlangsung dari 1 November 2017 hingga 30 Mac 2018 anjuran Balai Seni Visual Negara (BSVN). Ini adalah satu pengiktirafan serta penanda aras perkembangan seni negara kerana Kuala Lumpur Biennale 2017 merupakan sebuah pameran Seni Kontemporari antarabangsa yang dianjurkan secara besar-besaran.

Saudara dan Saudari sekalian,

15. Dengan lafaz BISMILLAHIRRAHMAN NIR RAHIM saya dengan sukacitanya melancarkan penerbitan Buku ALEGORI: Ekspresi Seni Kontemporari Berasaskan Manuskrip Melayu.

Sekian.

Wabillahi taufik walhidayah, wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

Salam Sejahtera

Dan Salam 1 Malaysia

Yang Amat Mulia Tunku Zain ‘Abidin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Penaung Organisasi Dunia Melayu Polynesia,

Excellencies Ambassadors; and Representatives of Foreign Missions in Malaysia,

YBhg Tan Sri Zarinah Anwar, Member of the Board of Directors, PETRONAS,

Yang Berusaha Puan Zahariah Liza Abdul Rahman, Pengurus Besar Kanan, Bahagian Komunikasi Strategik, PETRONAS,

Yang Berusaha Puan Roshaniza Ilmi Mohd Ali, Pengarah, GALERI PETRONAS,

Artis-artis dan Warga Seni,

Rakan-rakan Media,

Para hadirin yang dihormati sekalian,

Alhamdulillah, marilah kita bersama-sama merafakkan kesyukuran ke hadrat Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala kerana atas limpah izin dan kurniaNya jua, kita dapat bersama-sama bertemu di majlis ini sempena perlancaran rasmi pameran sulung GALERI PETRONAS untuk tahun 2017, “MANAH: A LIVING LEGACY”.

2. Perkataan “Manah” ini sendiri sebenarnya berasal dari Bahasa suku kaum Temiar yang membawa maksud “purba” atau “cara lama”. Ia merujuk kepada budaya terdahulu yang mengabadikan hubungan suci antara orang-orang asli atau orang-orang asal dan tanah yang mereka duduki.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

3. Galeri PETRONAS is very proud and privileged to open its door to this unique exhibition, “MANAH: A LIVING LEGACY” as a testament to our continued commitment to our “Amanah”, our responsibility towards creating a positive ecosystem for the growth and understanding of Malaysian art, culture and heritage. Particularly, as a platform for the preservation of Malaysian indigenous aesthetics and culture by providing another perspective to the understanding of indigenous communities across Malaysia – be it in Sabah, Sarawak or Peninsular.

4. “MANAH: A LIVING LEGACY” explores the indigenous worldview which is grounded on ancient stories and symbols, orally recounted through ritual dance and songs. The world is revered as a sacred symbol of creation and sustainer of life. This symbiotic relationship between man and nature provides a template for their culture and social order.

5. This Exhibition seeks to re-represent indigenous aesthetics in a new context, challenging the notion of indigenous culture as something that is mysterious, inferior or backwards. The prejudices of modern society have led to the mistaken perception which assumes that the creativity and inventions of the past did not bear any influence or effect on their lives. Thus, it causes people to ignore the valuable treasures of their ancestors. While in awe of the presence of new inventions that are expensive and considered of high value and associated with prestige.

6. While we must continue to innovate in this disruptive Digital Age, we must consider the material and non-material culture from the indigenous communities as invaluable, not merely as heritage, but to use them for expanding the body of knowledge in various fields such as agriculture, medicine, anthropology, linguistics, literature and industry.

7. There is so much that we can learn from the values and practices of indigenous people when it comes to global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss and sustainable living. Their minimalist way of life is in itself a lesson in sustainability – a subject only recently given more prominence including by the Corporate world. PETRONAS is proud to contribute towards enhancing traditional knowledge and a holistic culture.

8. Indeed, PETRONAS’ CSR initiatives are anchored on sustainability. For example, our work in collaboration with Yayasan Sabah on the Imbak Canyon, deep in the heart of Sabah. Allocating more than RM 80 million this initiative which includes the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre aims to conserve 30,000 hectares of virgin rainforest and home to 600 species of flora and fauna, making Imbak Canyon a priceless heritage. Our Biodiversity, Environmental and Conservation (BEACON) Project in collaboration with Sarawak Forestry in Bintulu and ecoCare Programme together with Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) along Sungai Kertih in Terengganu and many more across the country are manifestations that PETRONAS is beyond just economic sedentary. We remain highly committed to such corporate social responsibility, despite the current challenges in the global oil and gas industry.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

9. The exhibits that you will find on display throughout the Galeri today showcase the ingenuity of the indigenous communities in their everyday items. In the absence of materials and tools of modern technology, they possess the knowledge to produce items of value. A good example would be the process of making the ‘pua kumbu’ among the Ibans which requires special delicate expertise and keen observation. It shows a level of local wisdom that is unmatched, simply relying on basic tools, discipline and noble work ethics to produce something so valuable. So precious. Some of these arts are translation of their dreams. A visualisation of their Unseen world.

10. This Exhibition also showcases works from a new generation of young indigenous artists who celebrate their ancestral heritage. Their works are contemporary in nature and are infused with their distinctive culture and heritage.

11. With the march of progress and modernity, much of the traditions and aspects of indigenous culture is slowly diminishing and increasingly lost amongst the younger generation. The efforts of the four young artists in this Exhibition to preserve their heritage by presenting traditional culture in a modern medium through a contemporary lens is much lauded.

12. It is my hope that this Exhibition will facilitate a larger awareness and appreciation of the indigenous communities in Malaysia as they reaffirm universal values of kinship, ingenuity, simplicity and respect for nature and the environment. There will be various public programmes in conjunction with this Exhibition such as story telling of Kelabit tribes for children, Sulaman demonstration all the way from Kampong Inarad Tongod, film screening on Temiar People and numerous art forums and discussions. Bringing ourselves closer to our Root. It is in a way reminding ourselves, both as individual, and as an organization, of our Origin. Lest we forget!

Ladies and Gentlemen,

13. Since its inception in 1993, GALERI PETRONAS has emerged as a platform for the exchange of ideas, cultures and expertise towards building a vibrant art community and industry in Malaysia. Today, it has become a crucial arts engagement platform for artists and audiences, both locally and abroad.

14. I wish to congratulate Puan Roshaniza Ilmi and the family of GALERI PETRONAS, Guest Curator Associate Professor Dr. Hj. Baharudin Arus from University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and his co-curator, Encik Badrolhisham Mohamad Tahir, our guest writers Prof. Dr. Ismail Ibrahim from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Dr. Noria Anak Tugang from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), who have all worked tirelessly to bring the Exhibition to life.

15. I would also like to thank all four talented local artists Alena Ose’ Murang, Shahar Koyok, Kendy Mitot and Kaleb Anyie Udau for sharing their creative talent, contributing towards another milestone in GALERI PETRONAS’ efforts to promote and develop Malaysia’s young talents.

16. A special acknowledgement is due to Tok Batin Hussein of Kampung Orang Asli Bukit Kala, Batu 12, Gombak and Biro Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Belia 4B, Gombak and all individuals who have kindly lent us their collections for this Exhibition. Many many thanks.

17. I hope this Exhibition will contribute towards making our legacy, living and thriving through the ages, and that we have discharged our Amanah to the legacy.

18. On that note, and with lafaz ‘Bismillahirahmanirrahim’, it gives me great pleasure to declare “MANAH: A LIVING LEGACY” exhibition open.

Thank you.

Photos courtesy of PETRONAS Group Strategic Communications.

PETRONAS Chairman, Tan Sri Sidek Hassan delivering his officiating speech.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

And a very good afternoon

Yang Berusaha Puan Zahariah Liza Abdul Rahman, Senior General Manager, Group Strategic Communication, PETRONAS

Yang Berusaha Puan Roshaniza Ilmi Mohd Ali, Director of Galeri PETRONAS

Participating artists and members of the art fraternity,

Members of the Media,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Alhamdulillah, allow me to express utmost gratitude to Allah, The Almighty, for it is with His Kindness, and with His Grace, that we are gathered here today for the launch of Galeri PETRONAS’ latest exhibition titled “SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity”. The words “SEMANGAT 10” here translates to the collective and united spirits of the 10 ASEAN members.

2. On behalf of PETRONAS and fellow Malaysians, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all our guests and friends from across the ASEAN region and beyond, to Kuala Lumpur, as well as to Galeri PETRONAS, located at the PETRONAS Twin Towers. I bid you, Welcome. Selamat Datang. I hope you will enjoy and have a pleasant stay in Malaysia.

3. Galeri PETRONAS is proud and privileged to open its door to the exhibition “SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity” as a testament to our continued commitment towards fostering mutual understanding and ASEAN community building. Particularly as a platform for the exchange of ideas, information, art and culture.

4. In line with ASEAN’s motto of “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”, SEMANGAT 10 Exhibition seeks to enrich the already strong multifaceted relations in ASEAN through arts, facilitated by the many deep rooted commonalities and a strong bond, nurtured through the ages.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

5. SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity is also a testament to PETRONAS’s mission to contribute to the well-being of society beyond just economic sedentary. Despite the current challenges in the global oil and gas industry, PETRONAS remains committed to such corporate social responsibility.

6. SEMANGAT 10 showcases 34 selected contemporary artworks from 10 member countries which honours the creative work of some of ASEAN’s most prolific, established and emerging artists. It is a timely opportunity for all of us to celebrate the ASEAN region’s revered landscape, cultural diversity, traditional practices and systems of belief.

7. In promoting the convergence of cultures, the Exhibition showcases artistic creations from 24 artists that underline the bond of kindred solidarity amongst the region’s multiracial, multi religious communities who share common cultural roots stemming from similar communal and regional values inherited through the ages.

8. Inherent within these artworks are varied and complex layers of reading, interpretation and perspectives that link our region’s distant past with the present to create the vision for the Future of greater ASEAN. At the same time, it allows the audience to examine these artworks closely – its relationship to past histories, geography and politics. As you will later see each artwork has a story to tell.

9. Within this philosophy, the Exhibition recognises its humanistic value that can inspire and restore intellectual depth and emotional charge, necessary conditions for cultural legacies to survive in our imaginations.

10. The Exhibition orchestrates a beautiful narrative to honour and respect the cultural geography of the Southeast Asian region as a voice to engage and address the value of communal sustainability from the perspectives of PETRONAS’ own shared values, in all of its manifestations – cohesiveness, integrity, professionalism and loyalty. And in so doing treasuring and preserving our cultural and spiritual traditions.

11. Culture is the most important aspect of our daily lives that needs to be sustained. Through artistic expressions, our cultural heritage resulting from our shared history, rich traditions, rituals, belief and value systems generated through time could be further preserved, recorded and documented through exhibitions such as this.

12. We hope that visitors to SEMANGAT 10 will discover and appreciate the underlying message behind the artworks, that is the sense of identity that stems from the spirit of togetherness among communities of ASEAN. One that allows us to explore our shared traditions and regionally distinctive identity of our cultural landscape with which we stand tall and proud amongst nations of the world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

13. Since its inception in 1993, Galeri PETRONAS has emerged as a platform for the exchange of ideas, cultures and expertise towards building a vibrant art community and industry in Malaysia. Today, it has become a crucial arts engagement platform for artists and audiences, both locally and abroad.

14. I wish to congratulate Puan Roshaniza Ilmi and the family of Galeri Petronas Guest Writers, Encik Simon Soon and Encik Syed Muhammad Hafiz, who have all worked tirelessly to bring the exhibition to life.

15. I would also like to thank all 24 talented artists for sharing their gift of creative talent, contributing towards another milestone in Galeri PETRONAS’ efforts to promote, develop and preserve ASEAN region’s art heritage. It is my hope that exhibitions like today, will lead to a better appreciation of our artistic traditions across ASEAN countries and that it would continue to inspire new generation of artists to produce innovative fine works of art.

16. A special acknowledgement is due to the various institutions and individuals who have kindly lent us their collection for this exhibition. Many thanks.

17. I want to end by quoting our Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak when officiating the 25th World Economic Forum on ASEAN on 1 June 2016. He said and I quote, “…we also need a transformation of the mind, and we learn to think of ourselves more as ASEAN, act as ASEAN, and then reap the benefits of being ASEAN. Our national identity and interests can co-exist and even compliment ASEAN’s identity and interest”. SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity I believe is in line with the Prime Minister’s expectation.

18. On that note, and with lafaz ‘Bismillahirahmanirrahim’, it gives me great pleasure to declare the “SEMANGAT 10: Visual Expressions of Southeast Asian Identity” exhibition open.

Wabillahi Taufiq Walhidayah Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

Photos courtesy of PETRONAS Group Strategic Communications.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim

Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

Salam Sejahtera dan Salam 1 Malaysia
• Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Hj Megat Najmuddin Datuk Seri Dr Hj Megat Khas, Ahli Lembaga Pengarah, PETRONAS
• Yang Berusaha Puan Zahariah Liza Abdul Rahman, Pengurus Besar Kanan, Bahagian Komunikasi Strategik Kumpulan, PETRONAS;
• Yang Berusaha Puan Roshaniza Ilmi Mohd Ali, Pengarah, Galeri PETRONAS;
• Yang Berusaha Puan Shireen Naziree, Kurator Tamu Galeri PETRONAS;
• Yang Berusaha Puan Pauline Fan, Penulis Tamu Galeri PETRONAS;
• Artis-Artis dan Warga Seni;
• Rakan-rakan Media;
• Para hadirin yang dihormati sekalian,

Alhamdulillah, marilah kita bersama-sama merafakkan kesyukuran ke hadrat Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala kerana atas limpah izin dan kurniaNya jua, kita dapat bersama-sama bertemu di dalam majlis ini sempena perlancaran pameran terkini Galeri PETRONAS yang bertajuk “Crossing: Pushing Boundaries”.

2. Saya juga ingin mengambil kesempatan ini untuk mengucapkan Selamat Hari Merdeka dan Selamat Hari Malaysia kepada semua yang hadir pada hari ini.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

3. It is indeed a great pleasure to be here today amongst some of the most exquisite talents in the arts fraternity. Every one of the 15 Malaysian artists, whose artworks are featured in this Exhibition, have unique stories and viewpoints to share. As cultural nomads and global citizens, these artists highlight the importance of connecting to the larger world in order to better understand and value ourselves as Malaysians. We tend to forget the uniqueness in terms of diversity and inclusiveness in Malaysia, or the importance of that, until one travels outside the boundaries of this Country. I am struck with the realisation that in spite of years of staying away from Malaysia, be it in Indonesia or Australia or even further in Europe and the US, these artists, notwithstanding their racial origin, still call Malaysia home. Remembering their roots!

4. Arts and culture are very dynamic elements parallel with mankind’s advancement throughout time. While some of us seek to preserve them in their pure and authentic states, we also work to develop a new generation of artists who refine and find new ways for the arts, in creating socio-political awareness, and promoting unity and harmony through their creativity and imaginations.

5. Arts is also a vital receptor in documenting the fast changing world especially in recent times. Through this exhibition “Crossings: Pushing Boundaries”, we are able to traverse Malaysian contemporary art at a global front. Images born in response to the artists’ spaces and surroundings, and their interactions with the environments around their subjects of gender, landscape, pop-culture and the broader social-cultural ecosystems, showcase the artists working in global and universal term. In this respect, artworks featured in this exhibition are visual statements on issues confronting humanity. It provides critical consciousness on global environments affecting the world’s demography within a volatile and short-term world we live in today – the whirlwind changes in finance, trade, politics, technology and society. And, through the artists’ lens, we are able to “push the boundaries” of our perspectives and widen our horizons to better understand the multi-faceted and complex inter-twined world.

6. We recognise too, that work of arts is a compelling factor in pushing the envelope for radical changes. It is able to transform prejudice into impartiality. Where love and peace, wars and catastrophes, displacements and migrations, triumphs and tribulations are captured; and human emotions are expressed through the artists’ eyes and sentiments. And, in responding to these changing phases and realms, artists’ through their artworks uncover values in virtue, knowledge and understanding, affection and compassion, humility and modesty, providing us with visual narratives to be read and understood.

7. An artist’s life is often simple. Having to learn to adapt to different environments, they have developed the ability to be resilient. With the new normal of prolonged low oil price in recent times, we, PETRONAS collectively, can take a page or two from these artists’ wisdom and passion as inspirations to thrive ahead. To make us more resilient and agile; and stronger than before. Doing more, with less. Pushing our boundaries to a new level.

8. We must remain innovative and robust in continuing to meet future energy demand in a responsible and sustainable manner, whilst preparing ourselves to be ready for the growth trajectory, once the industry tide turns.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

9. “Crossings: Pushing Boundaries” is testament to PETRONAS’ long-standing commitment in promoting Malaysian talents by cultivating creativity, innovative ideas and critical thinking through art.

10. This is because we strongly believe that progressive societies had placed holistic emphasis on the development of its people. Throughout history, great civilisations are marked not only by material wealth, but also the flourishing of its artistic and cultural expressions. As the custodian of the country’s oil and gas resources, PETRONAS takes pride in playing a significant role in contributing towards the well-being of society and the Nation including shaping citizens and societies with global mindsets through arts such as today’s Exhibition.

11. The artworks that are on display in this Exhibition has been carefully chosen after extensive research by our Guest Curator. You’ll be surprised of the actual seminal value of these artworks in the market today. Some are from our own collection. Some are from external collections and institutions. Nonetheless, entry into Galeri PETRONAS remains free of charge. In line with PETRONAS’ commitments in giving back to the Nation.

12. Since its inceptions, Galeri PETRONAS has emerged as a platform for the exchange of ideas, cultures and expertise towards building a vibrant art community and industry in Malaysia. Today, it has become a crucial arts engagement platform for artists and audiences, locally and abroad.

13. I wish to congratulate Puan Roshaniza Ilmi and the family of Galeri PETRONAS, including and especially the Guest Curator, Puan Shireen Naziree and Guest Writers, Puan Pauline Fan and Puan Christine Rohani Longuet, who have all worked tirelessly to bring the exhibition to life.

14. I would also like to thank all 15 Malaysian talented artists for sharing their gift of creative talent, contributing towards another milestone in Galeri PETRONAS’ efforts to promote, develop and preserve our nation’s fine visual art heritage. I am so delighted to note that some of the artists we have here today have remarkably been recognised in the international arena. It is my hope that Exhibitions like today, will continue to spur on more talented local artists to push their boundaries in their relevant art fields. We too, in our own respective areas, must gather inspirations from these artworks, to continuously push ourselves beyond our remit. Beyond our comfort zone. Be the best of our ability, in whatever we do.

15. A special acknowledgement is also due to the institutions and individuals who have kindly lent us their collection for this exhibition. Many thanks.

16. Please allow me to end my speech here today, with a quote by Carl Jung. On humanity, he said, “Thousands of years of struggle for adaptation and existence”. If we do not adapt and push our boundaries further, we will cease to exist.

17. On that note, and with lafaz ‘Bismillahirahmanirrahim’, it gives me great pleasure to declare the “Crossings: Pushing Boundaries” Exhibition open.

18. Wabillahi Taufiq Walhidayah Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

Salam Sejahtera dan Salam 1Malaysia

YBhg Tan Sri Kamarul Ariffin Mohamed Yassin, Mantan Pengerusi, Lembaga Amanah, Balai Seni Lukis Negara,

Yang Berusaha, Encik Rizan Ismail, Pengurus Besar, Jabatan Pengurusan Jenama, Bahagian Komunikasi Strategik, PETRONAS,

Yang Berusaha, Puan Roshaniza Ilmi Mohd Ali, Pengarah, Galeri PETRONAS,

Yang Berusaha, Puan Wairah Marzuki, isteri kepada Allahyarham Ismail Zain dan juga Mantan Pengarah, Balai Seni Lukis Negara,

Artis-Artis dan Warga Seni,

Wakil-Wakil Media,

Para hadirin yang dihormati sekalian,

Alhamdulillah, marilah kita bersama-sama merafakkan kesyukuran ke hadrat Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala atas limpah izin dan kurniaNya jua, kita dapat bersama-sama bertemu di dalam majlis ini sempena perlancaran rasmi pameran terkini Galeri PETRONAS yang bertajuk “AL-KESAH: HOMAGE TO ISMAIL ZAIN”.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

2. Galeri PETRONAS is indeed privileged to showcase this collaborative effort of 22 talented and established local artists from various art fraternities who have interpreted the artistic theories, visionary ideas and practices of the late Ismail Zain. Most, if not all of the talented artists who are showcasing their art in this Exhibition are students of the late Ismail Zain, who are truly inspired by the thought provoking ideas expressed in his artworks.

3. “AL – KESAH: HOMAGE TO ISMAIL ZAIN” derives from one of Ismail Zain’s significant works featured in his one and only solo exhibition in his life, the Digital Collage Exhibition back in 1988. The masterpiece was his form of critical response to the penetration of global mass media into local culture. He always held the view that regardless of the pace of globalisation affecting the world, one must never forget his or her roots. This is clearly visible in his thoughts and artworks he produced.

4. This impressive collection on display at this Exhibition manifests PETRONAS’ long-standing commitment in promoting and developing Malaysia’s local talents. By cultivating creativity, innovative ideas and critical thinking through artistic re-interpretation of Ismail Zain’s work.

5. Apart from Galeri PETRONAS, our resoluteness and strong commitments can be seen in our majestic Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, in the talented Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, the exciting PETROSAINS and the beautiful 50-acres of KLCC Park. These and our increasing human capital development beyond PETRONAS own internal needs, our ongoing works in our Corporate Social Investment throughout our Country are all testaments to our pride in contributing back to our Nation’s holistic development. We take these amanah seriously, and with pride, on our role to preserve, nurture and promote our culture and heritage. In a sustainable manner. Our contributions to our roots.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

6. It is hoped that this Exhibition will facilitate a larger awareness amongst Malaysians, as well as a deeper appreciation of this prolific artist. Ismail Zain was one of the pioneers in new media art, whose art transcends the boundaries of time and convention. It is truly admirable when he had chosen to explore the full potential of the computer. That all of his artwork displayed in his solo exhibition, were produced by using his Macintosh computer. Most others at his age of 50 plus at that time, would have simply avoided the complexity of using computer to express their skills. The late Ismail Zain, with courage, chose to defy convention and took the innovative path.

Background of Exhibition and Artist

Ladies and Gentlemen,

7. Art has been at the heart of cultures since ancient times, where the crafting of ideas and values are mirrored through the inner workings of artisans in relation to the society of the time. Since the 1950s, Malaysian art tends to mimic Euro American modern/contemporary art – an art form that is not as well-known as its traditional counterpart. Not fully understanding Western art’s philosophic background in its entirety, caused much alienation of Malaysian art and how it fit in within this ‘newly acquired’ model.

8. Ismail Zain was an artist who made it clear that tradition should be allowed to grow, as he believed that art was always founded upon pragmatic values. Thus, he was not subscribed to the expressionist mode, as to him, art making was never thought as a process motivated solely by emotions.

9. Today, Galeri PETRONAS is giving due tribute to this post-modernist artist, described as the visionary of Malaysian digital art, whose unique set of values are worked into advanced image-based technologies, offering new insights, and triggering renewed understanding of art in itself. It is our wish that Al Kesah will spark discourse and dialogue that will promote the immensely rich Malaysian art heritage. The exhibition also depicts the importance of Semiology. The Study of Signs and Symbol approach as an alternative, in promoting meaningful communication for Malaysian Arts and Culture.

10. I am very pleased to note that Galeri PETRONAS has played a vital role to reposition Ismail Zain and his works. The objective is to create an ideal ecosystem for Malaysian artists to flourish whilst producing ground-breaking Malaysian art in a historical global context. This is in line with the Galeri’s efforts in enhancing the public’s awareness as well as the understanding of Malaysian Contemporary Art.

Conclusion

Ladies and Gentlemen,

11. On behalf of PETRONAS and the Galeri, I wish to once again express our utmost gratitude and sincere appreciation to YBhg Tan Sri Kamarul Ariffin Mohamed Yassin, Former Chairman of National Art Gallery’s Board of Trustees and Puan Wairah Marzuki, the wife of the late Ismail Zain, for their support from the initial stage of this Exhibition.

12. I wish to congratulate Galeri PETRONAS, especially the Curator, Encik Badrolhisham, for realising this experience for all of us in re-living the works of the late Ismail Zain. We now have some appreciation of the semiology that have been embedded across his artworks and the interpretations of his works, that is simply awe-inspiring.

13. Last but not least, I would like to commend all 22 local artists for sharing their gift of creative talents, contributing towards another milestone in Galeri PETRONAS’ efforts to promote, develop and preserve our nation’s fine visual art heritage through various exhibitions and programmes, such as this. Their commitment and dedication in making this Exhibition a reality is much laudable. My sincere appreciation too, to all of you who are present here today.

14. On that note, and with lafaz ‘Bismillahirahmanirrahim’, it gives me great pleasure to declare the “Al-Kesah: Homage to Ismail Zain” Exhibition open.

15. Thank you all, and have a pleasant evening.