BETONG: The state government has big plans to promote the diversity of local culture and arts overseas which will show the uniqueness of the Land of the Hornbills.
Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that if the state’s cultures and arts are brought overseas, it would be a new attraction.
“For me, it’s the best way to promote Sarawak by displaying its diversity. This will indirectly bring more tourists to come here (to Sarawak).
“Therefore, my ministry in cooperation with Sarawak Arts Council (SAC) hope that local artistes will continue to refine their interests in order to enhance their potential to the highest level as there is a possibility that their talents can be lifted elsewhere.
“We have big plans with SAC to bring these diverse cultural and artistic performers overseas through our embassies in foreign countries … to showcase the diverse culture and uniqueness of Sarawak,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the state-level Tari and Lagu Asli Festival themed “Sarawak Berkarya” held at Dewan Sukan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan here yesterday.
He also noted that the effort was in line with the wishes of Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg that not everything should only be done in Kuching.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that the diversity of culture and arts in the state is not swallowed up in the future by a world without boundaries as the community become more exposed to new things” he said.
Karim added that the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building is currently being transformed into a Centre of Performing Arts where its functions would be similar to Istana Budaya in Kuala Lumpur.
“Once it is ready within the next two years, it will be a new landmark for artistes and art lovers to present their skills. “It is also expected to be equipped with an art academy and so on. The place will spice up the diversity of culture and arts.
“I believe it will increase the performance and interest of Sarawakians towards the various culture and arts in the state,” he explained.
Through the inauguration of the Tari and Lagu Asli Festival that was introduced last year, he expressed confidence that the community’s interest in traditional dances and indigenous songs had evolved and accepted by the diverse communities from all corners of Sarawak.
A total of 11 groups and 14 participants took part in the dance and indigenous song competitions respectively, which lasted until Saturday.
Also present were Layar assemblyman Gerald Rentap Jabu, SAC chief executive officer (CEO) Sharkawi Amit, and Betong Division deputy resident Abang Mohamed Abang Turkey.
