Emerging stronger from COVID-19 through arts

OBJECTIVES: To assess art initiatives and programmes communicating health messages and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia from 2020 to 2021.

STUDY DESIGN: Qualitative narrative study.

METHODS: Grey literature on COVID-19 art initiatives and programmes in Malaysia was reviewed.

RESULTS: The art initiatives and efforts in Malaysia to promote health and wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic were compelling and notable. These initiatives can be classified into five major categories, namely performing arts, visual arts, culture, literature and digital art. The main health messages conveyed through these initiatives included public education regarding COVID-19, health precautionary steps recommended for the public, and solidarity in the fight against COVID-19. These art initiatives cultivated positive responses from the public and increased their awareness of COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: From the public health perspective, the use of arts to educate and create awareness of COVID-19 in Malaysia were encouraging. The public is made more informed and prepared to face the challenges ahead.