The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to reverberate through various sectors, and the world of arts is no exception. While the world slowly recovers, the local arts scene is still coping with the aftermath.
The stages, once filled with lively performances, are now more muted and less vibrant, leaving behind a trail of uncertainty for both seasoned and new musicians, as well as the entire ecosystem that supports them.
In May 2020, the Cultural Economy Development Agency (CENDANA) released a report on the impact of the global health emergency on the arts. Almost all research participants (93 per cent) reported being negatively impacted, and about 70 per cent lost all or most of their income. Additionally, 83 per cent expressed concern about future work.
Deprived of audiences, performance arts centres have suffered losses and are still trying to bounce back from the impact of the pandemic. While things are improving, the damage caused by hundreds of days without audiences, combined with the pressure to maintain premises, equipment, and other costs, continues to challenge the industry as it struggles to stay afloat.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic is not the only reason the arts industry needs support. Arts and heritage preservation relies on significant financial resources to restore, conserve, perform, educate, nurture, exhibit, and maintain.
Additionally, the drive to generate economic revenue can sometimes overshadow the importance of arts and heritage. Changing societal values and cultural norms are also making it increasingly difficult to maintain traditional arts practices. The influence of globalisation may further erode pride in cultural identities and traditions, making it even more challenging to preserve these unique artistic expressions.
Investing in arts
Arts, in their many forms, are intrinsic to human civilisation and transcend mere entertainment. It is important that we recognise the immense value of the arts and the role they play in shaping our society. By extending our support to local musicians and artists, we are investing in the future of our nation’s cultural landscape. A thriving arts scene is a testament to a society that appreciates creativity, culture, and diversity.
The government has taken commendable steps to bolster the creative industry through initiatives such as MyCreative Ventures, a government-backed investment arm launched to spur the country’s creative industry through strategic and innovative funding.
While corporate sponsorships have helped local arts to survive, the industry needs a steady stream of support to maintain momentum. Thus, providing a significant source of funding to cover costs and organise educational and outreach programmes is crucial.
In short, everyone — corporate entities and individuals alike — should step up to play their roles in nurturing this vital element of our cultural tapestry.
Corporate sponsorship can be a game-changer for the industry. By supporting the local arts scene, companies not only contribute to creating a vibrant arts industry but also enhance their image, connect with their audience, and attract new ones.
Investing in emerging local musicians can also lead to beneficial partnerships, such as becoming brand ambassadors, and allow companies to reap the rewards of these creative collaborations.
Supporting our nation’s heritage
Supporting local music is also an investment in our nation’s heritage. Traditional and indigenous music forms — often the unsung elements that bind our culture — are at risk of fading.
Practiced by various demographic groups across the country, these performances are precious repositories of our history, tradition, and identity. Only by preserving them can we ensure that future generations have the opportunity to connect with their roots and appreciate the richness of their culture.
Additionally, classical music, pop, and other genres play important roles in uniting people through a shared appreciation of music. Ensuring that these diverse musical genres thrive helps develop a culturally aware and appreciative nation.
However, without sustainable financial support and help, these preservation efforts will be limited, and we risk losing, bit by bit, pieces of our culture that cannot be retrieved by any means. The only way to keep them alive is to support them.
It is heartwarming if we can come together as a country to create an environment where the arts can flourish, young talents are nurtured, and cultural heritage is preserved for generations to come. By investing in the creative arts, we are not merely supporting an industry but nurturing the soul of our nation.
We call upon corporations and individuals to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the arts by becoming patrons of the local music scene.
You can make a difference. Your support will be the catalyst for a musical renaissance that will enrich the lives of millions. Let us all work towards creating a future where music is not just a luxury but an essential part of our shared experience.
Together, we can compose a symphony of support that will resonate through generations of Malaysians.
