Mooted by artist Ng Bee, the idea of turning a small fishing village, Sasaran, into a “culture village” was supported by the villagers, the Sasaran Arts Association (ad hoc), Gerakan Belia Bersatu Malaysia Cawangan Sasaran and SGM. Themed “Resonance”, the workshop was the first of its kind to be held in Malaysia, with emphasis on humanism for the world.

On December 12, 2008, a total of 32 artists from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Italy, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and Vietnam gathered at Sasaran, situated 30 km north of Klang, Selangor to participate in an international art workshop and cultural exchanges. For nine days, these artists, painted, sculpted and created artworks while soaking in inspirations from the peaceful and laidback atmosphere of the village.

Their works were then exhibited at the Wisma Kebudayaan SGM from December 21 to 28, 2008. As expected from such a wide array of artists coming from so many countries, a vast variety of works resulted from the congregation working in a congenial environment. In fact, some of them were experiencing working in a tropical climate for the first time in their lives. In addition to paintings were stone sculptures and small installations, including a bottle with a fetus-like object within. Many pieces make for interesting speculations and meditative ponderings, being inhabited by various objects and executed in different styles.

In opening the exhibition, Teng Boon Soon, Deputy Minister of Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage, said that, “The artists used available local material to create [artworks] that give resonant feelings among them and the public.” He also hoped that the exhibition will help to strengthen the friendship between the countries and the Malaysian public.