KUCHING: The Sarawak government is supportive of the creative arts industry here as illustrated by the recently announced Heritage, Arts and Culture Facilitation Fund, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister pointed out that the allocation of RM10 million reflected the state’s passion for arts, culture and heritage.
“The ministry will see how the fund can be disbursed, who can apply and who is entitled to it.”
He said this at a press conference after the fireside chat and closing of the Tenun Fashion Week 2021 at the South Wing, Old Courthouse here on Sunday (Oct 17).
Abdul Karim said there was a need to invest in the craft industry to spur growth in rural economies considering the fact that approximately 40 percent of the state’s population are in rural areas.
“Agencies such as the Sarawak Craft Council, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation and the ministry are supportive of initiatives in the craft sector so that artisans are given various opportunities to flourish such as those through the Tenun Fashion Week.”
On Oct 12, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the setting-up of the Heritage, Arts and Culture Facilitation Fund in the 2022 State Budget.
