CASB24: A Celebration of Culture and Art Comes to a Close

The Cultural & Arts Showcase & Bazaar 2024 (CASB24), held from the 9th to the 30th of September at Menara Maybank, officially concluded after three exciting weeks of showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. This inaugural event, organized by Maybank Foundation, was a resounding success, drawing thousands of guests from all walks of life to explore the vibrant exhibitions, performances, and workshops on display.

Dr. Raja Zulkarnain

Rumah Gambus, which I had the honor to lead, was selected as one of the top 5 artisans to be featured at the event. It was a proud moment for us, as Maybank Foundation recognized Rumah Gambus as a leading authority in the field of gambus, a traditional musical instrument deeply rooted in Malay culture. Our mission was to promote and preserve the legacy of the gambus, and CASB24 provided the perfect platform for us to engage with a diverse audience and share the instrument’s rich history.

Throughout the event, Rumah Gambus captivated thousands of visitors at our exhibition booth. We showcased a collection of unique artifacts, including traditional gambus instruments and accessories such as the Black Eagle Quill risya (oud pick), a rare piece from Jordan, and other historically significant items. These artifacts were meticulously selected to highlight the evolution of the gambus and its cultural significance across the Malay world and beyond.

Our booth became a hub for education and cultural exchange, where we offered personalized one-on-one gambus workshops. Many guests, intrigued by the instrument, took the opportunity to try their hand at playing the gambus under our guidance. These sessions allowed us to not only teach the technical aspects of the instrument but also to share its deep cultural connections. We answered questions with enthusiasm, meeting the curiosity of our visitors with detailed explanations about the instrument’s history, craftsmanship, and role in Malay traditions.

One of the highlights of the event was the impromptu surprise performance by Ethnostrings, our unique multi-cultural band. The blend of the gambus, sitar, and sape created a mesmerizing fusion of traditional sounds from different cultures, reflecting the spirit of unity through music. The performance brought the audience to their feet, with some even dancing to the infectious rhythm. It was a moment that beautifully encapsulated the essence of CASB24 – a celebration of diversity and shared heritage.

Overall, CASB24 provided us with an incredible platform to promote and preserve the heritage of the gambus. By the end of the event, we had not only educated thousands but also inspired a new generation to appreciate the cultural richness that this instrument represents. The opportunity to be recognized and celebrated as leaders in this field by Maybank Foundation was a significant achievement for Rumah Gambus, and we look forward to future collaborations that continue to elevate the gambus to new heights.

As we bid farewell to CASB24, we remain committed to our mission of keeping the legacy of the gambus alive, and we are excited about the future possibilities that await us.

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