Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) is targeting the attendance of about 10,000 visitors at the Kelantan Wayang Kulit Festival (FWKK) 2025, which is scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 2 at the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Heritage Department director-general Mohamad Muda Bahadin stated that the festival serves as a platform to introduce traditional performing arts to the public and to raise awareness about efforts to conserve the country’s intangible cultural heritage. The festival aligns with the National Cultural Policy (DAKEN) which emphasizes seven thrusts, including cultural heritage preservation and cultural economy generation.

The festival is also organized in conjunction with the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, observed worldwide on October 17 and organized by UNESCO. This marks the second edition of the celebration since its declaration in 2024, aiming to raise global awareness about the preservation and appreciation of intangible cultural heritage like oral traditions and traditional craft skills.

Meanwhile, the dean of the ASWARA Traditional Performing Arts Centre, Mohd Kamarulzaman Taib, expressed readiness to ensure the festival’s success. The event will feature 10 wayang kulit groups from Kelantan and will utilize ASWARA’s facilities for activities such as competitions, exhibitions, and performances.

Mohd Kamarulzaman emphasized that the festival offers a unique opportunity for the younger generation, including ASWARA students, to witness performances from various generations of wayang kulit puppeteers. He encouraged the public, including students, NGOs, and the arts community, to attend, thereby strengthening the country’s cultural identity and boosting domestic tourism as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 initiative.