China and Malaysia have agreed to send a joint nomination to propose the lion dance for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In welcoming the move, Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai commended the move to formally recognize Lion Dance on a global scale.
“The Penang state government welcomes the Malaysian government to join hands with the Chinese government to work together to apply for the lion dance, a traditional skill for inclusion in the UNESCO Tangible Cultural Heritage list”, he said.
The proposal is among the highlights in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebrations of China-Malaysia diplomatic ties.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang was in Malaysia in conjunction with the celebrations.
Upon arrival, he was greeted by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his cabinet ministers.
Several MOUs/MOAs were also signed in conjunction with Premier Li’s visit.
China is also Malaysia’s main trading partner for the past 15 years thus contributing to the economy.
Meanwhile, Premier Li’s visit here was part of his tour of New Zealand, Australia and Malaysia.
