Kedah: The 'Kembara Utara' exhibition, showcasing works by artists from the northern region of the country, will be held at the Kedah State Art Gallery here from Jan 12 until May 11. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour announced the event as a part of a collaboration between the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum and Art Gallery (BNM MAG) and the Kedah State Museum Board. It forms part of a travelling art exhibition series that traces the pulse of art, history, and culture of the Northern Region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abdul Rasheed emphasized the importance of prioritizing and celebrating arts and cultural heritage in line with national development. He noted that for BNM, the collection and display of these artworks contribute to understanding and celebrating the cultural journey of society. He expressed that art should transcend geographical boundaries, social strata, and generations as it enriches thinking, strengthens identity, and broadens perspectives.
The launch of the Kembara Utara exhibition was officiated by the Raja Muda of Kedah, Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin, and witnessed by the Raja Puan Muda of Kedah, Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff. Abdul Rasheed highlighted Kedah as the chosen venue due to its rich heritage, natural produce, and traditions, which have long inspired artists and played a significant role in the development of Malaysian art.
Abdul Rasheed further elaborated on the distinct visual identity of the Northern Region, mentioning the padi fields of Kedah, the limestone formations of Perlis, traditional villages in Perak, and the cosmopolitan spirit of Penang. He acknowledged Kedah's contribution to the art scene, producing distinguished figures like Ibrahim Hussein and Sharifah Fatimah with their abstract works, as well as Abdullah Ariff and Yong Mun Sen, who have captured the beauty of local landscapes.
The five-month exhibition, open from 9 am to 5 pm, will feature more than 80 works by artists from Kedah, Perlis, Perak, and Penang. It aims to highlight artistic narratives with socio-economic themes through landscapes, culture, and economic development. The exhibition also seeks to promote the nation's art and cultural heritage to visitors and provide the public with a greater understanding of BNM's commitment to supporting Malaysia's artistic heritage.