GKL Youth Peace Culture Festival: Peace Begins with One – A Journey of Self-Awakening and Change in Daily Life

SGM Kuala Lumpur held its Youth Peace Culture Festival event at the SGM Culture Centre on  6, 13, 20 and 21 December 2025, attracting a total of 6,405 spectators. Centred on the theme “Peace Begins with One,” the festival utilised stage performances and heartfelt experiences to guide the audience on reflecting where change and peace truly begin – themselves.

The event opened with a scintillating body percussion performance that energised the venue. As the programme progressed through dance, choral singing and gymnastics, it depicted the exploratory journey of youth through confusion, reflection and awakening, setting a tone of “starting from within.” The highlights of the event were three experiences shared on stage, conveying the message that “peace is not a distant ideal, but begins when an individual is willing to face themselves.” The event reached its climax with a gymnastics display and the theme song “I Am the Wave,” ending on a high note. Participants also engaged with the “Vibe Spot” interactive zone to broaden their experience, bringing compassion and action back into their daily lives.

Kajang Municipal Councillor Dickson Tan Gee Guan shared how profoundly moved he was when watching the segment depicting a school bullying incident. As a parent, this brought tears to his eyes. He affirmed the significance of the event, suggesting it be promoted continuously through various platforms to spread values of rejecting bullying and respect for life. He resonated with the idea of “starting with one,” believing that as long as one does not give up, progress is possible.

Taiwanese artist Joy Wu noted that the festival showcased the rise of the younger generation, stating that the vitality and creativity displayed by the youth are qualities society should learn from. She found the experiences of the three speakers inspiring and believed that if more people are willing to start changing themselves, society can move step-by-step towards peace.

Malaysian Ittihad Harmony Society founder Kamilah Chow Kim Lien remarked that this is a much-needed platform for modern youth. She encouraged young people to step out of isolation and resonate with life. She praised the performance for being both vibrant and meaningful, noting that performers build confidence through the stage – a radiance that extends into their daily routines.

Jacob Manning Seagroves from the US described the entire performance as breathtaking. He was most moved by how the dances following the experiences pushed emotions to a climax, describing the production as being as beautiful and stunning as fireworks.

Meanwhile, Khalifa Boustaouil from Morocco believed the festival provided a vital reminder: “One must respect oneself before they can respect others.” He pointed out that the starting point of respect lies in connecting with one’s true self and finding inner peace, which forms the foundation for building sincere and meaningful connections.

Tan Xin Hui praised the professionalism of the production team, noting the excellent stage, lighting and sound. She appreciated the “pauses” in the first half of the show that allowed the audience to discuss and interpret the meaning afterwards. Moved to tears by a scene involving a girl being bullied, she emphasised that education and “ensuring every heart is seen and cared for” are crucial.

From a Single Person, a Tide Begins to Rise

Sokahan Group member Cheok Chun Keat, responsible for traffic and crowd control, shared that despite facing financial pressure and job instability, he remained steadfast in his faith – prioritising prayer as his foundation. He resolutely committed to four days of duty, remarking movingly: “Nothing is more precious than a simple ‘thank you’ from a teammate.” He is now determined to mentor more young people to join the Sokahan Group.

Why Sow Lai, who served as an usher, has long been the primary carer for her mother, who suffers from mental disorder – a responsibility that comes with immense psychological burden. Through prayer and the encouragement of seniors and fellow members, she has learnt to relax and accept herself. “Initially, I just wanted to take part,” she said. “I didn’t expect that while the process was exhausting, it would be so fulfilling. I’ve truly rediscovered the meaning of unity.”

Body percussion performer Au Jia En originally hoped to work behind the scenes but was encouraged by a friend to join the performance. Striving to balance her studies with a demanding rehearsal schedule, she reached a breaking point where she considered giving up. Ultimately, the support of her teammates, family, and the audience helped her regain her confidence. She now aims to pass on this passion and become a pillar of support for others.

Human formation performer Teoh Chia Ning took on the role of the “top girl” in human formations, requiring her to coordinate movements with precision at elevated height while ensuring safety. At the same time, she was grappling with the challenges of frequent shift work and night-time duties. Through constant trial and error, her mindset shifted from “I can’t do this” to “I actually can.” Hearing the applause, she felt her hard work had been recognised and now looks forward to her next challenge.

Reported by Ashlynn Tham, Ting Cheau Ya and Sim Dong Liang, photographed by Lum Heng, Jeffery Lum and Jordann Cheng