In a heartfelt recognition of Penang’s cultural richness, the Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) recently honoured two idols with the prestigious Living Heritage Treasures Award. Eurasian singer Kathleen Rodigues, and Asan Anbanathan Ramasamy, a silambam grandmaster whose contributions to Tamil Martial Arts.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Silambam
For Asan Anbanathan, silambam has been more than a martial art, it has been a lifelong mission. Starting at a very young age of 14, he quickly immersed himself in our traditional Tamil martial art, which uses bamboo sticks as weapons. Over six decades later, he continues to inspire generations with his unwavering commitment to this discipline.
At 78, Asan has become a pilar of the silambam community in Malaysia. He has trained 20 senior silambam masters and countless students at no cost, ensuring the art form is passed down authentically. His dedication recently got him on the international stage when his team secured Malaysia’s first silambam win at Asian Open in Qatar.
For Asan, silambam is not about combat, it embodies self defense, health and discipline. “It’s about maintaining health and building resilience,” he explained. True to this, he initiated a groundbreaking class for autistic childrens six months ago. The program now engages ten children under 12, making his belief that silambam can go beyond boundaries and benefit everyone.
A Recognition Long Overdue
Receiving the Living Heritage Treasures Award its not just an honor for Asan but also a milestone for silambam as an art form, “This is a prestigious recognition for me and the sport itself,” he remarked.
His contributions have not only preserved a piece of Tamil heritage but have also brought global recognition to this ancient martial art. His dedication serves as an inspiration for younger generations to embrace and sustain their cultural roots.
Kathleen Rodrigues: The Musical Heritage Icon
The ceremony also honored Kathleen Rodrigues, a 77-year-old singer known for her contributions to Penang’s Eurasian musical heritage. Dubbed the “Connie Francis of Penang,” Rodrigues’ soulful voice has been a fixture in Penang’s music scene for over 50 years. Her performances, have left an indelible mark on the island’s cultural fabric.
Preserving Penang’s Intangible Heritage
The Living Heritage Treasures Award, established in 2004, acknowledges individuals who safeguards Penang’s cultural heritage. This year’s benefiary join a revered group of artisans, performers, and educators celebrated for their unwavering commitment to their crafts. Each awardee receives RM2,000 annually, with the recognition serving as both an acknowledgment of their efforts and a call to sustain Penang’s rich traditions.
Loh-Lim Lin Lee, PHT vice-president, emphasized the importance of these custodians of culture. “Their dedication ensures our heritage remains alive for future generations,” she said.
As Penang continues to evolve, individuals like Asan Anbanathan ensure that its heritage remains vibrant. Through their work, they not only preserve traditions but also inspire others to cherish and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make Penang unique.
Sources: Malay Mail , FMT
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news.
