Johor bahru: The Johor government will allocate a total of RM150,000 annually to support the development of the 24 Festive Drums movement. This allocation includes RM100,000 for the 24 Festive Drums Association Malaysia and RM50,000 for the Johor Bahru Foon Yew High School 24 Festive Drums Team.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi emphasized that the allocation reflects the state government's commitment to nurturing the traditional performing art, which originated in Johor 38 years ago. The initiative is also aimed at preserving Johor's rich cultural heritage.

Onn Hafiz announced the yearly grants during his speech at the 7th International 24 Festive Drums Festival at the Raja Zarith Sofiah Opera House. He praised the Foon Yew High School students for their impressive performance, noting that they exhibited the skills of professional drummers.

He further stated that Johor's development should not be solely evaluated based on economic growth but should also include efforts to protect and promote the state's cultural identity. He underscored the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage alongside economic advancements.

Additionally, Onn Hafiz revealed plans to expand cultural performances at the Kompleks Warisan Sultan Abu Bakar, potentially incorporating regular 24 Festive Drums events. He has engaged 24 Festive Drums Association Malaysia vice-president Lee Sheah Liang to explore the possibility of organizing weekly or regular performances at the venue.

This initiative aligns with Johor's vision of becoming a developed state by 2030 while ensuring the preservation of the cultural identity of Bangsa Johor.