UBD Vice Chancellor Proposes Drama Academy
By Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - The Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam has proposed the establishment of a "Drama Academy" or "Drama Learning Institute" in the country.

Dato Paduka Dr Hi Ismail Bin Hj Duraman said, "We are all aware that drama is not being taught in schools specifically, however I am -confident that in the future, at least, there will be an establishment of a'Drama Academy' or `A Drama Learning Institute' in Brunei Darussalam.

"This is because of the view and awareness of the adult community that sees the importance of drama in the lives of than as a platform for moral education, human development and the progress of a nation."

He also said, " I want to see courses or programmes that are related to arts, culture and performing arts be offered in the Faculty of Social Arts and Sciences in the future".

The UBD Vice Chancellor, who was guest of honour, made these remarks at the closing ceremony of `Seminar Kesusateraan: Drama Melayu Di Nusantara'- (Literature Seminar: Malay Drama in the Malay Archipelago) yesterday at the Chancellor Hall, UBD.

On the theme of the literature seminar, which is Drama as a Platform for Human Development and the Development of a Nation, he said, "It is very interesting that the drama profession should be given more attention, thus the Universiti Brunei Darussalam has played a role holding such activities, and the drama movement of the country through the Malay Literature Department has held drama courses that taught writing, performance and drama knowledge".

Earlier, in his welcoming remarks, the chairman of the ceremony, Dr Haji Morshidi bin Hj Muhamad, said "The main objectives of the seminar are to strengthen the understanding and knowledge in drama, to open up opportunities for lecturers and undergraduates as well as activists in drama to interact and exchange ideas with scholars in drama".

He added, "We hope in the future to hold a seminar or conference in another discipline". The seminar was attended by more than 60 literature scholars/academicians, teachers, university and high school students, writers as well as activists in the drama genre.

The seminar had gathered local and international scholars in drama who presented their ideas and new discoveries. Participants were able to enrich their understanding, experience and knowledge in this area so that drama activities in Brunei will gain more attention and develop in line with other countries.

Meanwhile, several resolutions were passed during the seminar, namely, Islamic values need to be made central in the creation and activity of drama; drama that is produced has to reflect the culture of the community in the region; Malay drama in the Malay archipelago has to be cohesive; modern drama and traditional drama should not only be an object of entertainment but must play a role in shaping the morals of man; instilling participation in drama activities should start at a tender age; drama should be made a subject in formal education and the efforts should be increased in creating drama that will consistently improve. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

Click Here To Have Your Say On This Story

Brudirect.com News

Brunei's Fastest Growing Website with