SERDANG, 4th Dec – Zapin troupe of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has done it again by defending their champion title during the Zapin Festival hosted by Malaysian Universities Arts Council (MAKUM) with their top-notch performance entitled Zapin Seri Bunian. UPM beat 17 other universities.

As reigning champion, UPM brought home cash prize of RM2000, certificate of participation and an accompanying trophy presented to them by Secretary General, Ministry of Higher Education, Datuk Dr. Zulkefli A. Hassan.

The first runner up, Universiti Malaya performed Zapin Sebat Sarawak and the third place went to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, with their performance, Zapin Sarawak.

Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs and Alumni, Prof. Dr. Azali Mohamed informed the media that the festival was co-hosted by Universiti Putra Malaysia and Ministry of Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Malaysia held since the 1st till 3rd of December 2008 at the Banquet Hall, UPM.

“18 universities under the MAKUM patronage have submitted their participation for this competition.

“The competition oriented festival has encouraged knowledge sharing and cooperation for all especially the students,” he added.

He also mentioned that the zapin festival aims to highlight talents and students’ creativity as part of their effort to establish cultural arts and to uplift Zapin Melayu as our cultural heritage.

The competition has indeed infused passion for cultural arts by promoting the zapin steps and getting to know the dance movement better.

The Malay community acknowledged Zapin as their past time activity especially in the rural area and performed professionally during gatherings, gracious events and weddings.

Prepared by Media Section, Corporate Communication Division, UPM.