LAUNCHED in 2013, the Sutra Dance Outreach Programme has become a beacon of opportunity for children aged six to 15, especially those from underprivileged communities beyond Kuala Lumpur.
Rooted in the philosophy that art transcends boundaries, the programme offers early, quality exposure to classical and traditional dance – opening minds, building confidence, and cultivating talent.
The initiative is the vision of Padma Shri Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, founder of Sutra Dance Theatre and Chairman of the Sutra Foundation. As Malaysia’s foremost dance icon, Datuk Ramli’s accolades include the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India’s Padma Shri (2018), and Malaysia’s National Living Treasure award.
The Outreach Programme reflects his deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists, especially in overlooked regions like Kajang, Rawang, Ladang Sungai Choh, Kuala Selangor, and Klang. Here, Sutra’s dedicated teachers have spent weekends sowing seeds of discipline, creativity, and cultural pride – and watched them take root.
Over more than a decade, hundreds of children have blossomed through the programme. Once shy and uncertain, many have evolved into poised young performers – caterpillars transformed into butterflies, ducklings into swans. These young dancers now serve as cultural bridges within their communities, symbols of transformation and resilience.
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Behind their success stands a network of committed parents who have walked the journey with Sutra, investing time, trust and energy into their children’s growth. Their support has been integral to shaping this movement.
Today, many of these rising stars perform alongside Sutra’s senior artists, even on international stages, earning recognition and acclaim. They carry with them a legacy of empowerment through the arts — confident, aware, and proud of their cultural heritage.
As Sutra looks to the future, these young talents are not just dancers — they are the creative leaders and cultural ambassadors of tomorrow, carrying forward a tradition that unites communities and inspires the world. — Geetha K
Checkout the video link on Sutra Outreach Programme here. https://youtu.be/iGAFdjop4AA?si=RvH6BhhjhDm90fge.
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