Funding aims to empower young Malaysians to pursue their dreams in preserving the cultural arts.
KUALA LUMPUR, 11 November 2024 – RYTHM Foundation, the social impact arm of global conglomerate QI Group, has announced a significant RM150,000 investment in Malaysia’s fine and performing arts sector. This initiative, dedicated to advancing young talent, aims to support promising Malaysian artists through scholarships and grants, affirming the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing the country’s rich cultural heritage and creative future.
The Vijayaratnam Fine & Performing Arts Grants & Scholarships Initiative was launched with the event Kala Vriksha: The Tree of Time, a captivating showcase of traditional and contemporary music and dance at the Temple of Fine Arts Malaysia, on November 8.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Temple of Fine Arts and three other esteemed institutions – Akademi Seni Budaya dan Warisan Kebangsaan (Aswara), Kalpana Dance Theatre, and Sugam Karnatica – highlighting Malaysia’s diverse artistic expressions and heritage. Vijayaratnam Foundation is the local chapter of RYTHM Foundation.
“At RYTHM, we believe that art transcends boundaries; it fosters empathy, reinforces cultural pride, and unites communities,” shared Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, Chairperson of RYTHM Foundation. “This initiative ensures that financial barriers no longer stand in the way of talented young Malaysians eager to contribute to the arts. Through scholarships and grants, we’re investing in both individuals and in Malaysia’s cultural legacy.”
The initiative supports talented Malaysians in excelling in visual arts, music, dance, theatre, and literature, helping those passionate about the arts but facing financial challenges. Additionally, the scholarships and grants aid full-time students in artistic programmes who demonstrate outstanding talent and dedication.
Dr M. Paranjothy, President of the Temple of Fine Arts Malaysia, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “We are truly honoured to partner with RYTHM Foundation in providing these scholarships and grants to our talented students. This collaboration reaffirms our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists, preserving our rich cultural heritage, and ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder creative potential. With this support, we are empowering young artists to pursue their passion and contribute meaningfully to the arts.”
The alliance between RYTHM Foundation and the Temple of Fine Arts signifies an inspiring step towards building a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant Malaysian arts community. By ensuring access to resources and support, the initiative aims to foster a thriving environment for artistic passion, talent, and opportunity to flourish for generations to come.
ABOUT RYTHM FOUNDATION
RYTHM Foundation, the heart of social impact for the QI Group of Companies, champions Education, Empowerment, and Environmental Sustainability. An acronym for “Raise Yourself to Help Mankind,” RYTHM embodies the QI Group’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Since 2005, RYTHM Foundation has reached over 80,000 individuals across more than 20 countries, partnering with over 115 organisations to launch over 50 sustainable projects. Our initiatives, particularly in education, women’s empowerment, and inclusive support for youth and individuals with disabilities, have garnered international recognition, including prestigious awards in India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Ghana.
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