About The Exhibition
The KERINGAT: Tales of Our Forefathers exhibition features artworks that depict the country's socioeconomic status from the pre-independence era up to the 1980s. During this period, the country’s economic resources were more dependent on basic resources such as agriculture and mining. Due to Malaysia being a country rich in tropical rainforest and an abundance of fertile soil, from the 14th century up until its independence, Malaya was considered a goldmine and was once a centre for trade during the Malacca Sultanate era. This ultimately led to the colonisation of Malaya by foreign powers, such as the Portuguese, Dutch, British and Japanese.
After the Federation of Malaya gained its independence in 1957, the country’s economy became increasingly scrutinised. With priority placed on its growth and development, the Central Bank of Malaya was formed in 1959. Later, in efforts to restore the economic well-being of the people and the country at large, the New Economic Policy was established in 1970 under the Second Malaysia Plan (1971-1975), and the Green Book Plan was subsequently launched in 1974.
The KERINGAT exhibition is divided into four sections, namely, Agriculture, Fisheries, Mining, and Small Businesses. Typically, we are accustomed to written reports comprising of data and figures to depict the economic state of a particular environment. In this exhibition, reports will be visually illustrated through human observations, experiences, and readings. Indeed, the exhibition highlights the artists’ role in 'painting the picture' of past economic environments, harnessed by the hard work and diligence of our forefathers; our farmers, ranchers, fishermen, miners, and traders, all of whom formed the foundation, landscape, and development of our beloved country's economy through very different perspectives and art mediums.
KERINGAT features artworks from as early as the 1940s. Some artists are also historians! Among which are Abdullah Ariff, Kuo Ju Ping, Yeoh Jin Leng, Ismail Hashim, Mohd Salehuddin, Long Thien Shih, Eric Peris, Wong Kean Choon, Hoessein Enas and Chang Yoong Chia. The virtual exhibition features more than 50 artworks belonging to local art collectors, artists, and that of Bank Negara Malaysia's.
The exhibition aims to inspire the recollection of the country's rich history and economic activities, and appreciation for the hard work of all those toiled not only for their families, but also for the country’s socioeconomic development. The synergy brought on by educational initiatives and plans – such as courses in plantation and fishery, and infrastructure development brought on by the government and related associations play a vital role in further enhancing the technical skills of today's youths, including effective management and marketing. This continued collaboration is critical in ensuring that all sectors continue to prosper and our youths – our forefathers' successors, continue to thrive.
