MELAKA: The younger generation needs to be given more exposure to the art of pantun (Malay quatrains) in order to uphold the cultural heritage, which is of high value, and prevent it from becoming extinct, according to a pantun activist. With over 23 Peranakan stage productions to his credit, Baba GT Lye is not only active in Malaysia but also in his country of origin. Last May, he staged a Peranakan theatre titled "Tak Sangka-Sangka Cempedak Jadi Nangka" at Balai Budaya Tun Syed Nasir, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka in Kuala Lumpur. Baba GT Lye attributed his love for pantun to his father, who would recite the rhyming quatrains while doing daily chores such as eating, bathing, or even while he was participating in family events. When asked how many pantun he had composed, Baba GT Lye said he was unable to provide an exact figure due to the fact that none of his pantun have been documented for future reference.

Source: The Star November 25, 2023 15:06 UTC