Bringing the SASS Culture to KL Festival

The School of Arts and Social Sciences participated in KL Festival 2026 through a series of public engagement activities held across Kuala Lumpur, bringing together communities through conversations on climate action, cultural heritage, and the role of the arts in society.

At Taman Tugu, the Monash Climate Communication Hub collaborated with Taman Tugu and Rakan WWF to engage members of the public on climate change and environmental awareness, with support from student volunteers. The activation attracted strong interest from families and visitors throughout the two-day programme. Activities included a Nature Trail and a Climate Action Wall, where visitors shared their thoughts and knowledge on topics such as global warming and climate change. We extend our appreciation to the Monash Climate Communication Hub team, Dr Azliyana Azhari, Dr Ooi Wee Liam, Dr Geetha Maniam, Dr Linda Hunt, and all student volunteers for their valuable contributions to the initiative.

Meanwhile, at REXKL, audiences gathered for Cinema, Heritage and the City, a panel discussion that explored cinema culture, urban memory, and the legacy of P. Ramlee. Dr Chrishandra Sebastiampillai reflected on the history, memories, and changing social landscape of Kuala Lumpur’s cinematic past, examining what these heritage spaces mean within a rapidly globalising city. Dr Nazirul Hazim A Khalim discussed the enduring legacy of P. Ramlee’s films, drawing on The Lost Treasures of Old Cinema. Dr Agata Frymus shared insights into cinemagoing experiences, focusing on how cinema creates memories and what draws people to the cinema today. The discussion was moderated by Assoc Prof Yeoh Seng Guan, who guided a thoughtful conversation on the intersections of film, heritage, and city life.

We also thank everyone who participated in these activities and contributed to the vibrant discussions throughout the festival. We look forward to continuing these conversations and engaging with communities through future events.