The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) through the National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) in collaboration with the Johor State Government, the Melaka State Government and Negeri Sembilan State Government and its strategic partner, the Johor Zapin Entrepreneurs Association (PEZAPIN) had collaborated and made the cultural tourism programme, the Festival Kota Selatan (FKS 2023) a success. The event was held from 21-24 September 2023 at the Pontian Municipal Council Square, Pontian, Johor.
FKS 2023 which combines the arts, culture and heritage of three (3) states in the southern zone of Malaysia, namely Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan, is the basis for reflecting the integrity of the traditional arts and culture of those states which will be an attraction for local and international tourists. This Festival displayed a combination of elements of art, culture and heritage that are symbols of identity of the respective states in the form of performances, competitions, exhibitions, demonstrations, mutual aid, folk festivals and sales of art products.
More than 25 exciting events and activities took place at the Festival, including the South City Gala Night, State Folk Art Performances from Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan, Zapin Championship Competition, Tunas Rejama Traditional Dance Competition, Dewi Kebaya Competition, Buskers Challenge, Citra Malaysia “Colours of Malaysia”, Rhythmic Kompang Competition, Marhaban Competition, Small Talent Competition and many more.
In addition, the visitors who attended the Southern Gala Night were also entertained by local artists from the homeland such as Noraniza Idris, Nubhan, Radhi P.Ramlee and Chombi’s special appearance in the Colours of Malaysia performance. A combination of art performances by the JKKN Art Group of Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan also featured a collection of art performances from the three (3) states.
“This year, Pontian, Johor played host to the FKS 2023 since last year was held in Melaka. The rotating implementation of the three states in the south of Peninsular Malaysia has successfully highlighted the appreciation of folk art in their respective regions while being able to promote cultural uniqueness through performing arts, fashion, regional accents and the diversity of customs of the people in the south,” said Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot, Secretary of the Senior Division (Management) of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
For more information about this programme, the public can visit JKKN’s website – www.jkkn.gov.my or visit JKKN’s official Facebook through the link https://www.facebook.com/.
