KUALA LUMPUR: The contemporary Malaysian creative scene didn’t appear from nothing. Each striking artwork, each bold artistic expression, each powerful piece of poetry challenging norms today forms part of an ongoing narrative—one shaped by the effort, bravery, and foresight of earlier generations.
Understanding this background, Five Arts Centre recently presented a performance that vividly highlighted this heritage with deep emotional resonance.
During the "Legacy Alive Showcase," three modern-day artists honored the legacies of the late Nirmala Dutt, K.S. Maniam, and Lewis Pragasam — esteemed members of Malaysia's Tamil community whose deep impacts shaped the country's artistic heritage.
The event was held at the Five Arts Centre located in GMBB, Kuala Lumpur, on June 28th. Conceived by Kevin Bathman from Project Future Malaysia, it received backing from the 2024 Hai-O Arts & Culture Grants. Additionally, Cipta Seni Incubator offered creative development assistance, along with guidance and constructive input for the participating artists.
The event was hosted by Sharmilla Ganesan and included special appearances from Rahel Joseph, Marion D’Cruz, and Celine Lewis, who presented the honored artists and recounted personal stories highlighting their enduring influence.
The event began with a presentation from visual artist AJ Roberts, better known as Blank Malaysia, who created a video installation based on the environmental commentaries of Nirmala Dutt (1941–2016).
Nirmala was an influential artist celebrated for her daring, socially conscious creations. She used techniques such as printmaking, collage, and installations to explore issues including conflict, ecological damage, and authoritarian rule.
In *“Making Statements: Nirmala as Method, 2025”*, Blank examined her artistic strategies and perspectives on the sociological and environmental consequences of fast-paced urbanisation within her *“Statement Series (1973–1979)”*. The study also involved reshaping her earlier fieldwork conducted at *“Kampung Batu 4, Jalan Damansara.”*
"Nirmala’s artistry has consistently served as an inspiration for me. Beyond her innovative use of emerging mixed-media techniques, what truly stood out was her ability to reflect upon societal, governmental, and ecological matters within the backdrop of Malaysia’s swift urban development," remarked Blank.
Next came a performance featuring a scene from "Sandcastles," written by Melizarani T Selva. The short play offered a new take on the female characters from KS Maniam’s 1990 work *“The Sandpit: Womensis,”* bringing them together to discuss themes like matrimony, manhood, and how they might support one another in escaping harmful relationships.
Maniam (1942–2020) was an influential writer and scholar, best recognized for novels like *“The Return”* and *“In A Far Country.”* His literary contributions often delved into the lives and struggles of the Indian community living in Malaysia.
Portraying sisters-in-law Sumathi and Santha, actresses Grace Kalaiselvi and Tharaniii Karthigesu sparred, connected, and contemplated together onstage, revealing the intricate layers of competition and strength within their relationship.
Melizarani noted that Maniam portrayed English-speaking Indian women with various layers of complexity during a time when such representations were rare.
"The presence of Maniam’s legendary characters gives me a chance to explore underrepresented aspects of a Malaysian Indian woman’s sense of self. These figures provide me with a solid base from which I can experiment with fresh perspectives on how women wish to present themselves," Melizarani explained.
In conclusion, artiste Stan Calvin stepped onto the platform to deliver a musical homage to the departed Lewis Pragasam. Accompanied by guitarist Nelson Danker, he showcased his skills on both drums and tabla, fusing elements of Carnatic percussion with bass rhythms during moving renditions of the tracks "Sendiri Aku" and "Folewis."
Lewis (1957–2023) was a renowned percussionist and drummer celebrated for his impact on Malaysian jazz fusion. In addition, he established the band Asiabeat in 1979.
"Lewis showed us that staying connected to tradition doesn't mean you're trapped by it. He demonstrated that blending styles isn't just a trick—it's a way of showing respect through expression. Most importantly, he proved that when music is made sincerely, it has the power to connect people across cultures, genres, and generations," Sean remarked.
He did more than just entertain; he broke barriers. Lewis introduced worldwide rhythms right here at home and demonstrated that Malaysian music can resonate powerfully on the world stage.
The occasion ended with an emotional performance of "Keyakinan Diri" by veteran artiste Francissca Peter, who frequently shared the stage with Lewis during his peak years.
The "Legacy Alive Showcase" not only honored iconic figures from the past but also highlighted an energetic new wave of emerging talents—performers, storytellers, and visionaries shaping tomorrow’s culture.
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