GEORGE TOWN: It took some 700kg of fine river sand and water for visual artist Mohammad Ikhwan Ibrahim to create a sand sculpture standing almost two metres tall at Setia SPICE Convention Centre here.

       The 1.8x2m sculpture was created after five days of work by the 31-year-old at the vaccination centre (PPV).

       Mohammad Ikhwan said the sculpture, which was completed in mid-July, was conceived as a creative way to encourage people to get themselves vaccinated.

       “The sculpture is meant to be inspiring and empowering, with a hand wearing a rubber glove and holding a vial of vaccine.

       “It is also meant to honour the efforts of our frontliners and healthcare workers in battling the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said when contacted.

       The sand sculpture, which was made using only sand and water, is expected to last three months if maintained properly.

       “I need to spray water on it regularly to ensure it stays compact and does not fall apart. Every week, we have to check on it,” said Mohammad Ikhwan.

       Tourism and creative economy committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the sand sculpture, meant as a decoration for the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme, was the first such art installation at a PPV nationwide.

       “The sculpture is a symbolic representation of the commendable vaccination rollout in Malaysia and Penang thus far, as we continue to progress towards herd immunity.

       “This sand sculpture is more than just a normal display or exhibit. It is a living example of creative expression and an artistic approach, which is one of the main emphases under my newly established creative economy portfolio,” he added.

       Yeoh said the sand sculpture was a project debut by the Sand Sculpture Art Club and sponsored by Penang State Exco Office for Tourism and Creative Economy.

       He said the eco-friendly sculpture was made up of a natural substance, which was fine river sand.

       “This showcases the integration of sustainability in creative activities, further aligning with the state’s macro-outlook, the Penang2030 Vision.

       “The pandemic has undeniably hampered many livelihoods, especially those from the tourism and creative sectors.

       “Nonetheless, I am delighted to learn that our creative players are seizing the opportunity to give back to the community in the face of adversity,” he said.

       As more Penangites visit the SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas, he hopes visitors can take a moment to appreciate the creative exhibit.

       “They can snap some photos in remembrance of this sculpture and to celebrate their Covid-19 vaccination,” he added.