James Kon
Members of the public can get a glimpse into the rich Iranian culture and tradition during the Iran Cultural Week at Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s The Core building.
The event, organised by the Embassy of Iran in Brunei Darussalam in cooperation with UBD Corp, is held in conjunction with World Handicrafts Day and National Day of Iranian Carpets.
Permanent Secretary (Community and Culture) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari was the guest of honour at the launch yesterday. Iranian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Homeira Rigi Zirouki said the surviving symbols of Persepolis are a clear example of Iranian urban planning and civilisation for the past 7,000 years.
The world, she added, “recognises Iran as the cradle of literary elite, poetry and astronomy, medicine, mathematics and philosophy. We are proud of our elites who have always shined throughout human history and contributed to human civilisation and well-being. You must have heard the names of Omar Khayyam, Zakaria Razi, Ibn Sina, Mulla Sadra, Farabi, Rumi, Kharazmi and Hafez”.
The ambassador added, “The first and most important tourist attraction of Iran is its people, whose Islamic ethics and hospitality are well known among foreign tourists. We always welcome them with open arms and make the best memories for them when travelling to Iran.”
She also cited other attractions such as its unique and delicious food, including kebabs, salads, rice, stews, fast foods, fresh fruits and a variety of halal drinks, and Islamic architecture in mosques with blue tiles, mirrors, bridges and unique towers created by Iranian artists and engineers.
“Iranian carpets as the ambassador of peace with 1,000 years of history are famous all over the world for its unique designs and weavers’ mastery as well as its incomparable quality,” the ambassador said.
“The arts of copper engraving, inlay work, enamel work, pottery, embroidery needlework, cloth weaving, painting, miniature, calligraphy, cinema and theatre are other arts that Iran is known for.
“Our goal in holding this cultural week is to bring the Iranian culture to Bruneians. I believe that the more we get to know each other, the more we will see a world full of peace and tranquility,” she added.
The Iran Cultural Week is open to the public from 2pm to 3.30pm until June 3. Iranian movies will also be screened.
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, the permanent secretary toured the exhibition with the Iranian Ambassador as well as invited guests.
