(Kuala Lumpur, 17 March) — The “Nanyang New Frontiers: 20th Anniversary Art Exhibition of the Cao Tang Men Eastern Arts Society” was officially opened on 14 March at Wisma Kebudayaan Soka Gakkai Malaysia (SGM), bringing together artists, cultural figures and art enthusiasts to celebrate two decades of dedication to ink painting and calligraphy in the Nanyang region. The occasion also marked the publication of a commemorative art catalogue featuring works created by members in honour of the society’s milestone anniversary.
In his welcoming remarks, SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai highlighted the significance of the occasion, noting that the exhibition marks the first art exhibition hosted at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM in 2026—a year that commemorates the centre’s 25th anniversary. He emphasised that Wisma Kebudayaan SGM has long been a space where friendship, creativity and cultural exchange flourish, nurturing peace through genuine human connections.
The exhibition theme “Nanyang New Frontiers” reflects both the artistic heritage and forward-looking aspirations of the society. Organising Chairperson Ong Chia Koon explained that “Nanyang” represents the artists’ shared conviction rooted in the region, while “New Frontiers” symbolises innovation and new creative breakthroughs. For the past two decades, he said, Cao Tang Men has upheld the philosophy of its founding president, the late Dr Cheah Thien Soong, in advancing the development of ink painting so that brush and ink may flourish within the cultural landscape of the Nanyang region.
President Chong Choy further expressed the society’s aspiration to continue exploring Malaysia’s rich and diverse cultural landscape. Looking ahead, he encouraged member artists to keep striving for excellence, with the hope that one day they may follow in the footsteps of the late Dr Cheah by holding exhibitions or artistic activities at the esteemed halls of the National Art Gallery Malaysia.
Delivering the opening address, Rohana Mohd Yusof, Deputy Director-General of Operations of National Art Gallery Malaysia commended the collaboration between SGM and Cao Tang Men as an inspiring example of how civil society organisations contribute to cultural understanding and artistic exchange. She reaffirmed the National Art Gallery’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote artistic excellence, cultural diversity and meaningful engagement with the arts.
The “Nanyang New Frontiers” exhibition features 134 artworks by 55 artists, including 81 ink paintings and 53 seal carvings, reflecting the diversity and creative vitality of Cao Tang Men’s members.
The exhibition runs from 14 March to 12 April 2026 at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM (243, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur). Opening hours are 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (closed on Mondays), and admission is free. In conjunction with the exhibition, a series of programmes will also be held, including an art talk and workshops on Chinese ink painting, paper cutting and seal carving.
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