UNESCO and Temasek Foundation launched a new regional initiative to strengthen intercultural understanding in performing arts across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Running through 2027, the programme Embracing Shared Heritage through Performing Arts, will open new opportunities for artists and students with skills to collaborate, learn, and co-create across borders.

Performing arts have long connected communities across Southeast Asia, bridging cultural and linguistic divides, fostering dialogue, empathy, and respect. For many artists in the region, borders remain barriers. Travel restrictions, funding gaps, and limited platforms often make collaboration difficult. This programme responds by building stronger networks, helping artists co-create, and ensuring Southeast Asia’s rich traditions continue to thrive in contemporary ways.

“Throughout history, people have travelled, exchanged ideas, and inspired one another. While every country treasures its own national identity and performing arts traditions, it is through dialogue and exchange that creativity continues to flourish — and in turn, traditions are kept alive and relevant, “said Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, Director UNESCO Regional Office in Jakarta.

“Celebrating Southeast Asia’s shared heritage is vital to fostering harmony in diversity. By promoting artistic collaborations across borders, this partnership between UNESCO and Temasek Foundation seeks to deepen intercultural appreciation, build bridges between communities and a thriving and resilient region,” said James Chan, Senior Director (Programmes) of Temasek Foundation.

The initiative officially started with a virtual workshop held on September 2025, bringing   together over 300 participants from the three countries.  Attendees included traditional artists, arts managers, students, heritage practitioners and government representatives. The lively exchange featured creative performances and critical conversations on the future of performing arts in the region

The workshop’s dynamic underscored the appetite among artists and practitioners for stronger regional collaboration. Participants highlighted how initiatives like this can bridge divides, spark creativity, and amplify Southeast Asia’s voice on the global stage.

"As a musician, my broader hope, is that the UNESCO-Temasek Foundation programme will deepen audience's understanding of music. I Music is universal beyond stile or origin; it belongs to all humanity. By embracing our shared heritage through music, we can foster greater cross-cultural understanding and appreciation,” said Bagus Mazasupa, musician from Indonesia

As the programme moves forward, it will not only strengthen professional skills but also encourage artists to reimagine traditions in contemporary ways, ensuring heritage remains relevant for younger generations.

Over the next two years, the initiative will deliver a series of capacity building workshops, cross-cultural exchanges, and collaborative creations.  The program will culminate in a major festival in Yogyakarta, that will showcase co-created performances that celebrate Southeast Asia’s shared heritage through performing arts.