A Rare Cultural Experience at Maybank Art Gallery (CASB 2024)

by Dr. Raja Zulkarnain

From 9th September to 30th September, the Maybank Foundation will host a Cultural Art Showcase & Bazaar 2024 (CASB) at the Maybank Art Gallery, Menara Maybank, with Rumah Gambus being one of the five main exhibitors. This unique event promises to captivate lovers of gambus cultural heritage and music with its rare and meticulously curated artifacts, all from my personal collection, which I have been assembling since 2001.

One of the exhibition's standout highlights is the black eagle quill risya (gambus pick) from Jordan, making its debut appearance in Malaysia. This risya is no ordinary gambus pick; it’s crafted from the quill of a black eagle, a bird revered in Jordan for its strength and majestic presence. The process of creating such a pick is a delicate and painstaking art, passed down through generations of master artisans. The quill is carefully shaped and treated to achieve the perfect balance and flexibility required to bring out the oud's rich, resonant tones. Owning such a risya is akin to possessing a piece of history, a connection to the very soul of Middle Eastern music.

Another centrepiece of the exhibition is the gambus of Allahyarham Haji Fadzil Ahmad, a revered musician from Muar, Johor. Haji Fadzil Ahmad was not only a master of the gambus but also a guardian of the traditional Malay music heritage. His gambus, lovingly crafted and played throughout his life, carries with it the spirit of Malay musical tradition. This instrument has witnessed countless performances and carries the stories of a bygone era, resonating with the deep, melodious sounds of Johor's cultural history. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see this historic gambus up close, allowing them to appreciate its intricate design and the legacy it represents.

These rare artifacts, along with other treasures on display, offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the Malay world and beyond. The exhibition is not merely a showcase of musical instruments but a journey through time and tradition, brought to life through my personal collection. Whether you're a musician, a historian, or simply a lover of culture, this exhibition promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this cultural celebration at the Maybank Art Gallery.