SGM Welcomes Indigenous Artist-Curators, Builds Bridges of Friendship

On 25 March 2026, two artists-curators – Kat Bell from Australia and Malaysia’s Shaq Koyok – visited Wisma Kebudayaan SGM, where they toured the Mentor and Disciple Peace Hall and took part in a preparatory meeting for a future art exhibition.

During the visit, they explored the “SGI President Ikeda: In Pursuit of Peace” exhibition, gaining insight into the history of the Soka Gakkai and its commitment to promoting world peace. They also viewed the “Our Beautiful Earth” exhibition featuring President Ikeda’s photographs and the “Nanyang New Frontiers: 20th Anniversary Art Exhibition of Cao Tang Men Eastern Arts Society,” experiencing the convergence of culture and ideas through diverse artistic expressions.

Kat, who is Aboriginal, shared that the visit provided fresh inspiration, prompting her to reflect on how art can contribute positively to society. Shaq, from the Temuan tribe, noted that the emphasis on dialogue as a means of advancing peace left a strong impression on him.

On 27 March, the delegation visited the Australian High Commission in Malaysia, where they were received by Acting Counsellor Paroksh Prasad and Public Diplomacy Manager Jason Moynihan. Discussions focused on potential collaborations in indigenous art exchanges between Malaysia and Australia, aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and strengthening community connections.

Reported by Ashlynn Tham, photographed by Jeffery Lum