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In some countries, traditional arts are going extinct. Some people think that we
should try to keep them. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Today, many forms of arts related to traditional culture and custom are gradually
disappearing with an alarming rate. In my opinion, preserving them is of great
importance for human beings.

To begin with, traditional arts as national treasures are important parts of cultures
and history for each country. People who live in a nation without abundant
traditional arts such as folk music, ethnic drawings or painting would feel rootless
and lack the sense of belonging.

In addition, the economic value of traditional arts should not be ignored. Since some
arts symbolize the local or national culture, they can be used to boost the local
tourism and economy. A good example can suffice this point. It is reported that many
aboriginal people make a living by selling traditional-style handicrafts in Australia
where international tourism plays a significant role in economy and creates a host of
job opportunities.

Admittedly, those who are opposed to the protection of traditional arts may think it
would lay a heavy burden on governments’ budgets. Meanwhile, other more
important areas such as health care and infrastructural development also needs to to
be focused by governments. However, people would feel regretful because once a
form of traditional art disappears in history it would never be truly revived.

In conclusion, I concede that preserving traditional arts is costly and time-consuming

for governments. Nevertheless, I am convinced that great efforts should be made to
save them owing to their function in forming cultural identity and great economic
value.