GEORGE TOWN: Nearly six decades of dedication to preserving Kelantan’s Mak Yong and Wayang Kulit traditions have earned Che Mat Jusoh, an Adiguru (master practitioner) of traditional performing arts at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), recognition as a Living National Heritage (WAKOH) figure for 2026.
In a statement today, USM said the prestigious honour was conferred by the National Heritage Department under the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry in appreciation of his longstanding efforts to safeguard the traditional art forms, which are an integral part of the nation’s cultural heritage.
The university said the recognition was conferred during the 6th National Heritage Declaration Ceremony, held recently at the ministry, where 39 heritage elements were also officially declared National Heritage.
Che Mat, 72, said the award was more than a personal honour, describing it as an acknowledgement of his efforts to preserve traditional art forms that are increasingly being marginalised.
He expressed delight that his longstanding dedication to safeguarding these traditions had finally earned recognition from the government.
Che Mat said he was among the few remaining practitioners capable of performing traditional Mak Yong musical pieces that were gradually being forgotten, but was encouraged by the growing interest among younger generations in learning the traditional art forms.
“However, passing down knowledge of traditional arts takes time, patience and commitment. It is a gradual process that cannot be rushed, just as I experienced during my own years of learning,” he said in the same statement.
Che Mat expressed hope that traditional arts and cultural heritage would continue to be preserved and strengthened for future generations, while encouraging young people to broaden their appreciation beyond singing, acting and dancing to include writing on arts and culture.
He also stressed the importance of documentation and writing in safeguarding the knowledge, history and philosophy of traditional heritage, ensuring they are preserved for future generations.
Beyond his involvement in traditional performing arts, Che Mat, a former visiting artist at USM, has also contributed to literature with the publication of his latest book, Hikayat Maharaja Seri Rama, this year.
Compiled by Che Mat and published by Nusa Centre with financial support from the ministry, the book aims to document the rich Malay literary heritage that has flourished across the Malay Archipelago for more than 1,000 years.
The recognition also underscores the vital role of traditional arts practitioners in documenting, safeguarding and passing down the nation’s cultural knowledge, skills and intangible heritage to future generations.