Kuala Lumpur:The government is committed to transforming the art of calligraphy from its roots as an Islamic artistic heritage into a high-value sector that can offer economic opportunities, nurture local talent, and position Malaysia as a global hub for the art form.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr. Zulkifli Hasan, emphasized the need for a structured approach to this initiative. He proposed connecting calligraphy practitioners and entrepreneurs with multinational companies and potential investors to highlight the economic potential of calligraphy beyond its artistic value.

Dr. Zulkifli outlined the government's ambition to leverage calligraphy in various contexts, such as gifts at official functions and events, to enhance its economic impact. This statement was made at the World Calligraphy Art Exhibition at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre, which coincided with the 66th International Quran Recitation and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA). The exhibition, organized with the Malaysian Calligraphy and Jawi Association (KALIMA) and the National Calligraphy Art Association (PSKK), showcases 34 works, including two handwritten Quran manuscripts by 17 exhibitors.

The government plans to bolster support through collaborations with KALIMA, PSKK, Darul Quran, and other relevant agencies to promote calligraphy. Dr. Zulkifli highlighted the importance of revitalizing this underappreciated field, aligning with the MADANI Government's strategy of collective responsibility to advance these efforts.

Despite the jurisdiction over calligraphy standardization belonging to bodies like the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), the government is committed to elevating the status of calligraphy through future collaborations. With available resources, talent, and agencies, the government aims to establish Malaysia as a global reference center for calligraphy.

Dr. Zulkifli expressed hope that the World Calligraphy Art Exhibition in Malaysia will achieve a status similar to world-class events like the MTHQA, positioning Kuala Lumpur as an international reference for calligraphy. "Our dream is to elevate the Malaysian World Calligraphy Exhibition to the same level as the MTHQA, creating a global calligraphy showcase," he said.