Illustrating Financial Concepts Through Art and Interaction
At the Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching, visitors are greeted by the beloved characters of Malaysian artist Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, commonly known as Lat. These characters are part of Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial LATeracy traveling exhibition, designed to simplify and teach personal finance management using engaging visuals and interactive displays. This exhibition not only educates on the basics like budgeting and saving but also on making prudent financial choices, such as understanding loans and investments.
Learning Financial Skills Through Engaging Displays
The exhibition uses Lat’s engaging artwork from the “buku wang saku” or pocket money books, which have been instrumental in teaching school children about smart money management. By bringing complex financial concepts to life through familiar and entertaining characters, such as Mat and the formidable Mrs. Hiew, the exhibition makes learning about finances accessible and enjoyable. Visitors can interact with displays that teach them to check banknote security features, compare prices, and understand debt management, which are vital skills in navigating today’s economic environment.
A Nationwide Effort to Enhance Financial Literacy
Having traveled to multiple states and engaging various communities, the Financial LATeracy exhibition aims to reach a broad audience, including students, professionals, and families. By hosting community outreach programs and educational talks, the initiative seeks to instill a culture of informed financial decision-making across Malaysia. The goal is to build a financially savvy community equipped to avoid scams and manage finances effectively, fostering a financially secure future for all participants.