Reviving Sarawakian Culture: How AI and Digital Technology Can Transform Traditional Arts for Today’s Youth
In an innovative move to engage the younger generation, Malaysian Broadcasting Department’s Saifuzzaman Yusop proposes the use of artificial intelligence and digital technology to popularize the traditional Sarawakian art form, ‘bermukun’. By making cultural heritage accessible through modern platforms, this initiative aims to create a vibrant connection between youth and their cultural roots.
In a world where digital technology reigns supreme, the challenge of preserving traditional art forms has never been more pressing. The Sarawakian performing art known as ‘bermukun’ is at a crossroads, and the infusion of artificial intelligence (AI) and mobile technology presents a transformative opportunity. Saifuzzaman Yusop, director of the Malaysian Broadcasting Department’s radio programme division, believes that leveraging these tools can bridge the gap between this cultural treasure and the tech-savvy youth of today.
Bermukun, a traditional Malay performance art, encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak. Yet, as the digital age continues to reshape entertainment and cultural consumption, there is an urgent need to re-envision how such art forms are presented and experienced. The younger generation, who are constantly glued to their gadgets, can benefit immensely from an approach that makes bermukun not only accessible but also engaging.
Saifuzzaman highlights the significance of utilizing AI to disseminate information about bermukun’s rhythms, techniques, and history. By integrating these elements into digital platforms, educators and performers can provide immersive experiences that resonate with younger audiences. For instance, interactive applications could allow users to learn the art form in a gamified manner, fostering both appreciation and participation.
The recent event, Bermukun Se-Borneo 2024, exemplifies this vision. It serves not only as a showcase of talent but also as a platform for cross-cultural exchange among participants from Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. Through live recordings and broadcasts, the event aims to captivate audiences and draw them into the rich tapestry of Sarawakian arts.
Moreover, the event’s structure, which includes performances by traditional musicians alongside bermukun artists, underscores the importance of collaboration in cultural preservation. By creating spaces where young artists can learn from veterans, the initiative ensures that the art form evolves while retaining its authenticity.
Noor Hawadah Ramle, head of the Harmoni FM Unit, notes that while bermukun is not originally a Bruneian tradition, it has been embraced and adapted over the decades. This adaptability reflects the art’s resilience and its potential to resonate across borders. With AI’s ability to analyze cultural trends and preferences, organizers can tailor content that speaks directly to youth interests, making bermukun relevant in contemporary contexts.
As this initiative unfolds, it is essential to recognize that the goal is not merely to preserve bermukun but to revitalize it. By embracing AI and digital technologies, there is a promising path forward that not only honors the past but also ensures that traditional art forms thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The fusion of culture and technology heralds a new era where the arts can flourish, engage, and inspire generations to come. As we look to the future, the question remains: how will we harness innovation to keep our cultural narratives alive? The answer lies in our willingness to embrace the new while honoring the old.
