Human-Nature is a collaborative knowledge exchange programme aimed at creating a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Focused on sustainability, Human-Nature will explore Malaysia's cultural diversity and biodiversity, engaging local communities' knowledge to address the impacts of climate change on cultural rights.

Over the three years of the programme, Human-Nature will:

  • support the development of research and insights on collaborative and creative responses for climate adaptation, 

  • foster partnerships between communities, arts practitioners, scientists, and academia to embed arts and creative responses into organisational policies,

  • elevate local Malaysian voices to share insights, knowledge and best practices around sustainable futures , 

  • explore the role arts and creativity can play in addressing climate adaptation. 

"Indigenous knowledge is the accumulated knowledge, beliefs, and practices of native communities around the world, gained from centuries of living in close proximity to nature. It includes a vast array of knowledge systems, ranging from agricultural practices and medicinal plants to spiritual beliefs and traditional storytelling. This knowledge is not only valuable in its own right but has the potential to offer vital insights into contemporary global challenges. However, despite its value, much of this knowledge is at risk of being lost as indigenous communities face rapid modernization, globalization, and climate change. It is, therefore, crucial to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge to ensure its continued transmission to future generations and its potential application in modern society.” The Tuyang Initiative, a community-led arts management company from Miri, Sarawak.

 

What is part of the Human-Nature programme?

  • Community Engagement Guide - Aram Bekelala: A peer-reviewed guide offering recommendations for working with communities in Malaysia, with a focus on Indigenous and marginalised groups. It provides insights into ethical, co-collaborative engagement and serves as a supplementary resource for practitioners alongside their own research and practical experience. Coming soon in English and Bahasa Malaysia. 
  • Delegation to Malaysia: In March 2024, seven UK artists and professionals took part in a delegation to Malaysia, to foster collaborations with Malaysian counterparts on creative responses to climate adaptation. Delegates came with experience on multi-disciplinary projects that raise awareness and advocate for local cultural rights and climate challenges. Learn more about the delegates. 
  • Research: A new study, set to be published in 2025, will explore collaboration methodologies for international creative collaborations and research. The research aims  to identify creative collaborations, long-term partnerships and fostering dialogues between Malaysian and UK arts sectors to address climate change.  
  • Storytelling Fellowship: To be launched in 2025, the pilot fellowship programme Time of the Rivers will bring together two UK and two Malaysian artists to develop storytelling skills around art, climate change and community impact. Hosted by one Malaysian and one UK organisation, the programme will promote creative collaboration, mentorship, and cross-border networks. 

How will Human-Nature be delivered?

The programme will support artists, cultural practitioners, and underrepresented groups to utilise the value of arts and culture to address social and environmental challenges – creating a more inclusive and sustainable future. At the heart of the programme are people and communities, aiming to develop long-lasting, equitable and mutually respectful relationships that are initiated locally. 

Register your interest

If you are interested in learning more and joining discussions on the Human- Nature programme, contact Florence.Lambert@britishcouncil.org. 

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