USD 89 million to safeguard culture of Central Highlands
The rich culture of the 40 ethnic minority groups living in the Tay Nguyen (Central Highlands) will be preserved through a new Government programme.
"The mystery and beauty of the region is a consistent attraction for numerous tourists. Visitors to Tay Nguyen are captivated by the traditional songs, dances, costumes and colourful festivals," said Pham Quang Nghi, minister of Culture and Information.
Prime Minister Phan Van Khai has approved a VND1.4 trillion (US$89 million) cultural preservation project that calls for building more libraries, museums and nha rong or communal houses.
"At the rong houses, the time-honoured culture of epics has been handed down orally for generations, around communal fires," Nghi said.
The project’s first phase will last to 2005 and the second to 2010.
"The most important element in the project is how to preserve and develop the treasure of cultural values that exist in Tay Nguyen," Nghi said.
The project will be conducted by the Ministry of Culture and Information and the People’s Committees of the five Central Highlands provinces of Dac Lac, Dac Nong, Gia Lai, Kon Tum and Lam Dong.
It aims to preserve and develop Tay Nguyen culture, eliminate unsound customs and promote certain aspects of modern life.
"Building cultural and information activities at the grassroots level will be the priority," Nghi said. Young people will also receive training in traditional crafts.
The main ethnic minority groups in the Central Highlands are the E De, M’Nong, Gia Rai and Ba Na. — VNS
