AT A GLANCE
- Festival Returns: Aswara Artskap 2026 set for May 9, transforming the campus into an inclusive urban arts festival from 9am to 10pm.
- Interactive Zones: The event features eight dedicated zones (SKAP) covering live performances, workshops, digital screenings and a local market.
- Community Focus: The initiative aims to bridge the gap between the public and Malaysia’s creative industry through volunteerism and strategic partnerships.
KUALA LUMPUR – National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Aswara) is once again opening its doors to the public through the hosting of ASWARA Artskap 2026.
Fostering an inclusive arts festival
Aswara said in a statement that the open day, which now features a new concept based on a fresher, inclusive and interactive city arts festival, will take place on May 9 from 9am to 10pm at the Aswara Campus.
"ASWARA Artskap 2026 promises a dynamic arts experience with various interesting activities specially designed to bring the community closer to the world of arts, culture and heritage.
"Adopting the SKAP interactive zone concept, visitors have the opportunity to explore various art disciplines through eight main zones," it said on Tuesday.
Exploring the eight main zones
The eight main zones are Skap Pentas, featuring live theatre, music and dance performances; Skap Studio, focusing on art demonstration sessions; Skap Karya, providing workshops and masterclasses; and Skap Bicara, which involves discussion sessions and knowledge sharing with industry panels.
Also highlighted are Skap Market, offering sales of art products, food and local handicrafts; Skap Pulse, featuring art-based exercise activities; Skap Legasi, covering intake interview sessions for new Aswara students and art production auditions; and Skap Layar, which highlights the 'wayang pacak' (outdoor cinema) concept and screenings of local films.
Platform for interaction and diversity
According to the statement, ASWARA Artskap is more than just an open day; it is a platform that celebrates artistic diversity and opens up space for interaction between artists, students and the general public.
It said that through this urban arts festival approach, Aswara would become an open space that is closer to the community, thereby strengthening the appreciation of local arts and culture.
Strengthening the creative industry
"It is hoped that with the hosting of ASWARA Artskap 2026, more people will continue to appreciate art as part of their lifestyle and support the development of the country's creative industry, while strengthening strategic cooperation networks with industry partners such as KL Festival and Think City.
"In addition, this year’s event is supported by art volunteers from among the youth.
"This initiative serves as an important platform in fostering the spirit of volunteerism and elevating arts and culture among the younger generation," it said.
The public is invited to attend the event with family and friends to experience this unique artistic journey and learn more about Aswara’s role as a leading institution for arts, culture and heritage education in Malaysia.