KUCHING: Sarawak stood out in London for showcasing its arts and culture during the London Craft Week 2023 recently, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said during the handicraft exhibition, Sarawak showcased its arts and culture featuring the Malay, Iban, Bidayuh and other communities.
“What amazes us was the dignitaries who attended King Charles’ coronation also had the opportunity to attend the London Craft Week that showcased crafts from Malaysia, represented by Sarawak, Pahang and Terengganu.
“And our exhibition was eye catching with the uniqueness of our songket, keringkam, anyaman and our other arts and culture. We are also grateful that our Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandar had highlighted our arts and culture besides Pahang’s,” he said.
He was speaking during the Sarawak Malay Culture Foundation Charitable Trust (AKYBMS) Majlis Sama Rindok Aidiliftri at Pullman Hotel here yesterday (May 10).
Abang Johari also said that among the dignitaries that had shown their interest in the Sarawak exhibition were the King and Queen of Bhutan.
“And Alhamdulillah, two days ago, Sarawak strood out in London,” he said.
Meanwhile, he urged the Malay community to continue to maintain and improve their fine arts that are highly regarded in society.
“We must maintain and improve our arts as well as the arts of other ethnics in Sarawak,” he added.
He said songket, keringkam and pua kumbu are among arts and culture of Sarawak that reflect the unity of the Bumiputera communities in the state.
“Therefore, it is our responsibility as the next generation to improve our arts and culture besides our economic status,” said Abang Johari.
