KUCHING: Sarawak is embarking on a master plan to boost the local creative industry soon.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the plan is necessary to ensure Sarawak’s young generation would have a meaningful life and culture.
“The Sarawak Music Awards 2020 is expected to be the premier music arts event in Sarawak in the future.
“Now it is time for the state government to become the pioneer of our local creative industry.
“The local music industry needs to be enhanced because I believe this sector is able to contribute a lucrative income for our economic growth,” he said in his speech, read by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah at the launching ceremony of the Sarawak Music Awards 2020 here on Wednesday night.
“What all arts and culture practitioners should do is to look at our cultural and heritage products as a high value commodity.
“This means that traditional music practitioners must be willing to learn and enhance their entrepreneurial skills because this is the key for the creative industry to be a success.”
Abang Johari said the industry now really needs intervention from the state government to ensure its survival.
“The current situation is causing anxiety among those in the creative industry, especially freelancers who depend on their artwork as a source of income.
“Hence, the government decided to provide assistance to our local music artists to dampen the impact from the Covid-19 pandemic.”
He also noted that telco service providers could play a vital role in promoting local musicians and artists.
“Telcos help local musicians and artists through caller ringtone products, offering low subscription fees.
“I hope more parties will come forward to join us to further enhance the music industry in Sarawak, so that it can be expanded across the world.”
