Asean Culture Ministers Set Direction For Socio-Cultural Programmes

NUSA DUA (BALI), Nov 17 (Bernama) -- Asean culture ministers today set the direction for programmes towards the creation of an Asean Socio-Cultural Community through a seven-point declaration, including Malaysia's proposal for the setting up of the Asean Culture Fund. Information, Communications and Culture Minister Dr Rais Yatim said it was important for the fund to receive the support of Asean heads of government, especially tax exemptions for corporate bodies that contribute to the fund which would be used to sponsor cultural promotions in the Asean region. "Contained in the declaration are important matters that can be put under seven sections, including developing an Asean mindset or soul in terms of working together to create the 'one' identity and achieve other objectives, subject to the Asean Charter," he said. Speaking to Malaysian journalists after attending the retreat here for Asean ministers responsible for culture and arts, Rais said the second point agreed on was protection and promotions for things related to culture and heritage. "The third point is the importance of respecting cultural diversity which entails strengthening society by inculcating positive values and practices through cultural channels like music, stage performances, films and animations." He said the declaration also outlined the importance of appreciating and inplementing creative industry programmes through a network of cooperation in order to create economic and employment opportunities. "It should be noted that the Asean region has a population of not less than 550 million. Therefore, the creative industry has a great potential for creating jobs." The fifth point is the creation of Asean people with a good heart and noble values, thus taking their culture to a highly esteemed level. In this respect, Rais said, Malaysia gave a lot of input as it had much experience in refined culture and noble values which all people in the region could practise. The sixth point is the creation of a network of cooperation among Asean countries in progammes involving festivals and cultural practices. "For example, Malaysia suggested that in February, an Asean music extravaganza be held in Kuala Lumpur, and it was accepted. God willing, we will form a main committee to carry this out," Rais said. The seventh point is the 'social vista', whereby activities like sports, youths, as well as those related to humanity and environment come within the Asean socio-cultural cooperation framework. -- BERNAMA