Deadline: 05-Apr-2026
The “Embracing Shared Heritage Through Performing Arts” initiative by UNESCO seeks proposals from Malaysia-based organizations to manage artist engagement and program implementation. The project includes artist selection, workshop delivery, media outreach, and coordination under UNESCO Jakarta. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience in arts management and a proven track record of similar projects.
What is This UNESCO Initiative?
The “Embracing Shared Heritage Through Performing Arts” initiative is a cultural program designed to promote shared heritage, artistic collaboration, and performing arts development in Malaysia.
Led by UNESCO Jakarta, the initiative focuses on:
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Engaging Malaysian artists
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Strengthening performing arts management
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Encouraging co-creation and cultural exchange
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Enhancing visibility through media outreach
The selected organization will act as a contractor, providing technical and coordination support to implement the program.
Key Objectives and Scope of Work
1. Artist Engagement and Selection
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Launch a call for expressions of interest (EOI)
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Identify and select 10 Malaysian artists
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Ensure transparent and inclusive selection processes
2. Workshop Design and Delivery
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Organize an onsite workshop in Malaysia
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Focus on:
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Shared heritage concepts
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Performing arts management
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Ensure alignment with UNESCO’s cultural goals
3. Programme Coordination and Communication
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Maintain regular communication with selected artists
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Coordinate mentoring sessions and co-creation activities
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Act as a bridge between UNESCO and participants
4. Media Outreach and Visibility
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Develop communication strategies
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Promote the initiative through media channels
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Increase public awareness and engagement
5. Reporting and Documentation
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Track project progress and outcomes
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Submit detailed reports to UNESCO
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Ensure compliance with project requirements
Institutional Structure and Supervision
The selected contractor will:
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Operate under the authority of the Director of UNESCO Jakarta
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Report to the Programme Specialist for Culture
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Ensure all activities meet UNESCO standards and timelines
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
Organizations must meet all of the following criteria:
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Legally registered in Malaysia
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Minimum 5 years of experience in arts management or related fields
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Proven track record of at least:
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3 similar projects completed in the last 5 years
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Team Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
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A qualified Project Leader with at least 5 years of experience
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A clearly defined team structure
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Detailed roles and responsibilities
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Submission of CVs and organizational profile
Key Requirements for Proposal Submission
Technical Proposal Must Include:
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Methodology for:
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Artist selection process
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Workshop design and execution
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Implementation timeline
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Communication and coordination plan
Supporting Documents:
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Organizational registration proof
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Portfolio of past projects
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CV of Project Leader
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Team composition and structure
Why This Initiative Matters
Cultural Impact
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Promotes shared heritage and cultural identity
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Strengthens Malaysia’s performing arts ecosystem
Professional Development
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Builds capacity in arts management and collaboration
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Provides mentoring and co-creation opportunities
Global Visibility
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Connects local artists with an international platform
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Enhances recognition through UNESCO-backed initiatives
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
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Ensure your organization is legally registered in Malaysia
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Verify required experience and project portfolio
Step 2: Develop a Strong Proposal
Include:
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Clear methodology for artist engagement
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Workshop design aligned with shared heritage themes
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Communication and outreach strategy
Step 3: Build a Competent Team
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Assign a qualified Project Leader
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Define team roles and responsibilities
Step 4: Prepare Documentation
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Compile organizational and team credentials
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Include past project evidence and CVs
Step 5: Submit Proposal
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Follow UNESCO submission guidelines
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Ensure completeness and compliance
Step 6: Evaluation and Selection
Proposals will be assessed based on:
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Experience and track record
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Quality of methodology
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Feasibility and timeline
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Team capacity
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Lack of relevant project experience
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Weak or unclear methodology
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Incomplete team structure
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Poorly defined timelines
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Insufficient documentation
Tips for a Strong Proposal
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Align closely with UNESCO cultural objectives
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Demonstrate practical experience in similar projects
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Provide a clear and realistic implementation plan
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Highlight strong coordination and communication strategies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for this UNESCO call?
Only legally registered organizations based in Malaysia with relevant experience.
2. How many artists will be selected?
A total of 10 Malaysian artists will be selected.
3. What is the main responsibility of the selected contractor?
To manage artist selection, workshop delivery, coordination, outreach, and reporting.
4. Is prior experience mandatory?
Yes, at least 5 years of experience and 3 similar projects are required.
5. What is the role of the Project Leader?
To oversee implementation, coordination, and ensure project success.
6. Will there be international collaboration?
Yes, through UNESCO’s global cultural network and mentoring framework.
7. What type of workshop is required?
An onsite workshop focused on shared heritage and performing arts management.
Conclusion
The UNESCO “Embracing Shared Heritage Through Performing Arts” initiative offers a significant opportunity for Malaysian organizations to lead a high-impact cultural program. With a strong emphasis on artist engagement, heritage preservation, and professional capacity building, this initiative contributes to both local and global cultural development. A well-structured proposal with proven experience and clear methodology is essential for success.
For more information, visit UNESCO.
