KUCHING: Sarawak, now recognised as a City of Unity, can become the primary hub of arts and culture in Malaysia.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Sarawak government has allocated over RM200 million to upgrade the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building to a Sarawak Performing Arts Centre.
“With the realisation of this aspiration, Sarawak is poised to be known as an international stage for various artistic and cultural activities.
“This will boost Sarawak’s reputation as a focal point for artists and cultural enthusiasts, both from within and outside the country, to showcase their performances here,” he said.
He made these remarks in a speech text read out by Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah during the Anugerah Seni Budaya Sarawak (ASBS) 2023 at the DUN complex last night.
He also stressed that all initiatives undertaken by the state government aim to preserve arts to keep them relevant and acknowledged by the people.
“It must be remembered that a nation’s pride and ‘life’ are rooted in its wealth of artistic and cultural heritage.
“Therefore, the current generation must study and delve into the traditional heritage arts to ensure their continued existence, even in the face of modernisation and today’s technological progress,” he added.
During the event, nine awards were presented to recipients of local arts and culture figures.
Datuk Sarbanun Merican was honoured with the Tokoh Seni Budaya Sarawak 2023 award, which included a cash prize of RM5,000, a trophy, and a certificate of recognition.
Other award recipients each received a cash prize of RM3,000, a trophy, and a certificate of recognition.
The Sarawak P. Ramlee Fan Club (Kelab Peminat P. Ramlee Sarawak, KPPRS) received the Pendukung Seni Sarawak 2023 award for the non-governmental organisation (NGO) category.
Meanwhile, the Seni Muzik Sarawak and Seni Tari Sarawak awards were presented to Jerry Kamit and January Chan, respectively.
The Seni Teater Sarawak and Seni Berbahasa Sarawak awards were received by Malek Hassan and Dr. Saie Dris.
Additionally, three special awards, namely the Nilakandi Seni Sarawak (Tokoh Lagenda Seni Budaya) Special Award, Apresiasi Seni Sarawak (Tokoh Perpaduan Seni Sarawak) Special Award, and the Jury Special Award, were presented to posthumous awardees; the late Radiah Tahir, Penghulu Andrewson Ngalai, and Marshidi @ Richmond Allan Runjan.
Present at the event were the wives of Abdul Karim, Datin Seri Zuraini Abdul Jabbar; MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; MTCP permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini and Department of Culture and Arts, Sarawak (JKKN Sarawak) director Noor Seela Noor Sulaiman.
