The Star, Saturday November 3, 2012

Gallery of Chinese calligraphy stones launched in Semenyih

Usherettes in a row: (From right) Jocelyn Yong, 21, Angeline Lee, 18, Eugelina Yap, 23 and June Gan, 23 welcoming the public during the opening.

 

THE launch of the Malaysia Chinese Calligraphy stones gallery at Nirvana Memorial Garden in Semenyih was an auspicious occasion with ceremonial recitals being immortalised in 138 stone slabs.

The slabs etched with ancient sayings are a historical record of Chinese culture.

In his speech, NV Multi Asia Group founder and managing director/CEO Datuk Kong Hon Kong said the stone gallery was the first in Malaysia.

“The gallery took around three years to complete. This gallery will serve as a platform for the public, especially youths, to get a better understanding Chinese culture,” he said.

“These days, youths are more exposed to western culture. They should also make time to understand their own culture,” he said.

The stone gallery was launched by Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

Also present were Federation of Chinese Association Malaysia president Tan Sri Pheng Yin Huah and China’s ambassador to Malaysia, Datuk Chai Xi.

Attendees were greeted by a large stone on the evolution of the Chinese word “Han”, that evolved from the oracle to the present form.

The stone gallery also features masterpieces by over 40 deceased local calligraphers as well as samples of calligraphy from South Korea and Japan.

The event saw Chinese scholars putting up a play depicting a scene from an ancient Chinese dynasty. There were also calligraphy art display, traditional music performance as well as a series of Chinese cultural activities.

Group chairman Datuk Fu Ah Kiow said the company planned to hold calligraphy competitions, talks and other related activities so the public could appreciate the antique artwork.

“We will include more detailed information on the stones in the gallery’s official website so that public can view it on the Internet,” he said.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Utar) Institute of Chinese Studies deputy dean Dr Lim Chee Men, who brought along 37 undergraduates and postgraduates to the event, said the stone gallery was special and well-located.

“It is definitely a new milestone in promoting Chinese culture,” he said.

Utar student Tieu Kai Ping, 23, who is learning calligraphy, said it was indeed an eye-opener for him.

“It is a very good opportunity to witness these calligraphy stones and I gained knowledge from it,” he said.

The gallery is open to the public. Entrance is free. For details, visit its website, which was launched last month, at www.beilin.com.my