The Star Malaysia

Drum master now JB opera house cultural consultant

Maestro, 71, believes city should court global shows, provide opportunit­ies for local performers

- By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH farhaan@thestar.com.my

TAN Chai Puan, co-creator of 24 festive drums that has received internatio­nal acclaim, has been appointed as the first cultural consultant to Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera House in Johor.

The 71-year-old from Johor Baru said he was honoured by the appointmen­t.

“I do not see myself as the first person to helm such a position, but as a pioneer where hopefully there will be others after me to ensure the local art scene continues to thrive.

“I noticed that the cultural art scene in Johor, especially within Johor Baru, is getting bigger.

“As we are located between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, the local art industry can continue to grow even further,” he said after receiving his appointmen­t letter from R&F Group Malaysia chairman Lee Ming Liang.

The opera house was built by R&F Group.

Tan said the completion of the Rapid Transit System Link and faster connectivi­ty with Singapore would enhance the position of the opera house.

“By adopting an online ticketing system, we can attract internatio­nal audiences, especially from Singapore, to Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera House.

“There must be internatio­nal shows to attract more foreign audiences, but at the same time, there should be performanc­e opportunit­ies for local art performers as well,” he said.

Tan said that over the years, local performanc­es had also attracted bigger audiences.

“The local art scene is getting bigger not only in terms of performers but also the crowd.

“The presence of Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera House will provide a bigger platform for Johor’s art scene.”

R&F Malaysia in a media statement said that as a renowned cultural figure both nationally and internatio­nally, Tan possessed a rich experience in cultural management and profound artistic accomplish­ment.

“His outstandin­g achievemen­ts in the cultural industry, as well as his tireless efforts in nurturing young talents and promoting traditiona­l cultural arts, have earned widespread recognitio­n from various sectors of society.

“As the cultural consultant, Tan will assist in the cultural branding, artistic creation and cultural exchange activities of the opera house, enhancing its overall artistic standards and social influence,” the statement said.

The company also said Tan would provide profession­al advice and suggestion­s for the opera house’s daily operations, management and sustainabl­e developmen­t.

 ?? ?? tan (right) receiving his appointmen­t letter as Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera house cultural consultant from Lee.
tan (right) receiving his appointmen­t letter as Permaisuri Zarith Sofiah Opera house cultural consultant from Lee.

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