Books and Theaters: Toqayev Outlines Vision for Kazakhstan’s Cultural Growth

At a recent meeting with cultural workers, President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev emphasized the importance of fostering a national reading culture and expanding access to the arts across Kazakhstan, Orda.kz reports.

The event took place on the eve of the Day of Culture and Art Workers, celebrated annually on May 21. Toqayev congratulated those enriching the nation's spiritual life, including musicians, filmmakers, and artists who have earned recognition at international festivals.

We are the direct heirs of the unique culture of the Great Steppe. The masterpieces created on Kazakh soil played a vital role in shaping our national identity. Today, our unique culture is gaining global recognition,Toqayev said. 

Among key achievements, he highlighted the successful Nomad Games, Aqtau's designation as the cultural capital of the Turkic world, and efforts to globalize Kazakh music. 

One and a half thousand kuis, songs, and the best examples of our people's folklore heritage have been uploaded to the most popular international platforms. Popularization of national art is also carried out through the creative industry. Qasym-Jomart Toqayev 

Toqayev also noted that 45 new cultural facilities were built across the country last year, and more are on the way.

Still, he stressed that much remains to be done, especially in regional areas.

The theater is one of the main pillars of our spiritual life. At the National Qurultay in Burabay, I called for a renewed focus on the development of theaters in the regions. Many need major renovations; some need entirely new buildings. I believe entrepreneurs and philanthropists should be involved in this work. It’s a common global practice, and there are people willing to invest in such projects. I call on business representatives to participate in developing our spirituality, he said.  

He also mentioned the ancient settlement of Sarayshyq, emphasizing its importance to researchers and calling for its reconstruction. Additionally, Toqayev supported the idea of creating a single digital platform to preserve and share the historical and cultural heritage of Central Asian countries.

This year, the centenary of the famous composer Nurgisa Tlendiyev will be celebrated at the UNESCO level, the President said. 

He also set a challenge for architects: to reflect the spirit and originality of Kazakh culture in their projects. A national competition will be launched, with the winner receiving a state prize.

The President also referenced the nationwide “Taza Kazakhstan” (Clean Kazakhstan) campaign, emphasizing that cleanliness and culture go hand in hand, and that a clean environment fosters a clearer, more enlightened mindset.

He highlighted books as another key tool for personal growth and self-development, adding that this should motivate more Kazakhstanis to embrace reading.

Another necessary component of national development is the pursuit of knowledge and education. As the great writer Sherkhan Murtaza once said, ‘Books are the essence of culture.' If we want to build an advanced nation, we must first become a reading country,Toqayev said.  

Steps toward this goal already include World Book Day celebrations, automatic library machines in Almaty, and a newly established presidential prize for young writers.

The President also presented national honors to leading figures in the arts, including awarding the title "Hero of Labour of Kazakhstan" to renowned singer Kairat Baibosynov.

Other cultural figures also received awards.

Original Author: Alexandra Mokhireva