Developing an Assessment and Certification System for Malaysian Traditional Music Based on the International Graded Music Examinations Model: Challenges & Concerns

The lengthy British rule has left an indelible effect on the musical heritage of Malaysia in which many current practices in music still hold on to British systems. Among others is the dependency on predominantly British music examination boards. The appeal in these foreign music examination boards is the structured system and the awarding of certificates based on levels of achievement which are recognized as international benchmarks. A number of problems are associated with the unavailability of a structured music examination system for Malaysian traditional music. Among others, there is an overemphasis on western music at the expense of promoting local music. In addition, there is no standard system for assessing the musical attainments and certification of those who practice Malaysian traditional music as compared to the mechanisms available for western arts music. This paper discusses these issues based on an ongoing research project aimed to examine approaches and to formulate a mechanism best suited to assess musical attainment of musicians involved in traditional music. The focus of discussion is on challenges and concerns in establishing a structured assessment system and certification standards based on the international music graded examinations model.