Younger generation urged to be involved in street art

The Ministry of Tourism and Culture wants more young people to engage in street art in an effort to preserve the country's art and culture.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz said the use of contemporary art can become a new initiative for young people to deliver a message of patriotism and unity.

"Previously, many people consider street art as vandalism but the positive messages conveyed reflect the people's aspirations and rid the notion that street art is negative culture.

"This is in line with the ministry's objectives to enhance the arts, culture and heritage and to strengthen national unity," he said when opening the Tanahairku Street Art exhibition at Galeri Petronas, here today.

At the event, Petronas presented the Petronas Cultural Arts Fund worth RM3 million to 19 creative arts groups as contribution to the conservation of art and culture.

Nazri said Petronas' efforts could make Malaysia as a world lass tourist and cultural destination based on the arts and heritage.

"We commend the good intention of Petronas which focuses on youths and the conservation of national heritage."

At the event, he presented the Malaysia Book Of Records certificates to Abdul Qoyyum Mohd Nadzri, 21, and Mohd Zulfadli Ahmad Nawawi,28, who painted the largest mural in Malaysia measuring 21m wide and 26.5m high.