PENANG made history today as more than 10,000 participants took part in a mass drumming performance at Batu Kawan Stadium. The feat was officially recognised by the ASEAN Records as the largest simultaneous performance of Oriental drums, Malay drums, Indian drums and resonant objects used as drums.
The World Harmony Drums 2025 event brought together communities from 11 states, 206 schools and international participants in a record-breaking celebration of culture and unity.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the programme was not only a cultural milestone but also a symbol of harmony among Malaysians of different backgrounds and faiths.
“Today, we successfully gathered more than 10,000 participants to celebrate this event involving 11 states and 206 schools, with the involvement of local communities,” he told reporters after the event.
He added that the initiative, endorsed by the Education Ministry, was recognised as a cultural school programme.
“I was informed that this programme is recognised as a cultural school event where participants have been undergoing training at their respective schools.
“It is not something that just happened today, but they have been training with drums supplied to each school for practice,” he said.
Chow noted that schools hoped instructors could continue training students beyond the event, as drumming instilled rhythm, discipline and uniformity.
“This event is unique, showing how Malaysians from different cultural backgrounds can unite through a common platform.
“With the right effort and determination, we can succeed in whatever we put our minds to. Perhaps they can consider bringing this event to other states as well in an attempt to break more records in the future,” he added.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the event also highlighted the deep cultural roots of drums in Malaysia, as well as globally.
“Drum sounds have always been a powerful force, deep and resonant. During festivals and ceremonies, drums are indispensable. Whenever the drums start beating, the festive atmosphere immediately fills the air,” he said.
Wong also emphasised the importance of the 24 Festive Drums, which were inscribed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2009. Efforts are now underway to nominate it for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Bai Shi Yin Society for Culture and Arts Research organising chairman Bai Shi Yin expressed gratitude to dignitaries, educators, community members and guests who supported the event.
“We are honoured to have their presence here in a remarkable yet meaningful event,” she said.
Auto-City Group founder and managing director Gary Teoh added that the gathering was special because it included students, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), corporate representatives, and children with special needs.
“This occasion is a meaningful gathering of people from all walks of life, both local and international. We hope everyone can enjoy this moment together with joy and happiness,” he said, while thanking all parties for their contribution.
The event was jointly organised by Bai Shi Yin Society for Culture and Arts Research,
Auto-City Group, Yayasan Sakti, BSY R&D, Oriental Drums (International) and BSY Cultural Arts on Artistic Direction.
Among those present were state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung, and former United Nations under-secretary-general Dr Kim Hak-Su.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat