M'SIAN MINISTER: DON'T DISPUTE IF MALAYSIAN, INDONESIAN CULTURE OVERLAP

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysian and Indonesian culture, language
and arts have many similarities since time immemorial as the people of the two
countries are of the Malay stock, said Information Communication and Culture
Minister Dr Rais Yatim.

"Therefore, there should be no dispute between Malaysians and Indonesians
over such similarities as the people of these two neighbouring countries have
blood and historical ties," he said after receiving a visit from 19 journalists
from Bukit Tinggi, Padang, Indonesia at his office, here, Tuesday.

He cited the "kuda kepang" dance of the southern state of Johor as being
similar to the "kuda kepang" dance of Jokjakarta. "This is no plagiarism," he
said.

Rais said narrow-mindedness over the cultural similarities would only be a
loss to both countries.

"If there are people who are narrow-minded over this, we should educate
them. Through Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), we can initiate efforts to join
the two cultures," he said.

Rais said his ministry would cooperate with the Indonesian authorities to
organise a cultural programme to be held alternately here and in West Sumatra
each year.

On the postponement of American singer Beyonce's performance which was
scheduled for this Saturday, Rais said his ministry had not been informed the
reason for the postponement.

He said there was no reason to prevent Beyonce from performing here if she
adhered to the conditions and regulations.
-- BERNAMA