By: Nik Mohamad Ridhwan Nik Rasrudin

SERDANG, January 20 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has once again become a fertile ground for the development of performing arts with the successful staging of the theater production Hikayat Persada Maya on January 19 and 20, 2026, at the Experimental Theatre (Panggung Percubaan), UPM.

This production is the result of a creative collaboration between the UPM Theater Arts Club (PENTAS) and the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts Centre (PKKSSAAS), in cooperation with Layar Majnun, Chancellor College (Kolej Canselor), bringing together young talents from the university's theater scene.

Hikayat Persada Maya presents itself as a performance that upholds the aesthetic values of stage art while maintaining sensitivity toward humanitarian issues and contemporary thought. Among the core lessons highlighted are the dangers of jealousy and envy, which ultimately consume oneself, particularly when one turns away from religion. The production not only elevates the art of theater but also features the martial art of Silat and the Zapin dance.

From a creative standpoint, the production was driven by the artistry of scriptwriter Dhiya Khalish, who successfully crafted a manuscript with a neat and multi-layered dramatic structure. The play was directed by Nia Amelia, who translated the text onto the stage with an effective visual and emotional approach.

Throughout the two nights of performance, Hikayat Persada Maya received an encouraging response from the campus community and art enthusiasts alike, proving that theater arts remain relevant as a medium for intellectual, cultural, and humanitarian expression among students.

The organization of such programs aligns with Universiti Putra Malaysia's aspirations to support the development of student character, creativity, and leadership through arts and cultural platforms.

Date of Input: 23/01/2026 | Updated: 23/01/2026 | nureedayu