SIMUNJAN: The Tourism, Art & Culture Fiesta @ Simunjan not only boosts the local economy but also highlights the uniqueness of Sarawak culture.
The three-day festival was an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) through the National Cultural Policy, which aims to produce a cultured generation that appreciates the country’s old artistic cultural heritage, which is likely to disappear if not preserved and appreciated.
As such, its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri lauded the efforts of Persatuan Kebajikan Anak Jati Simunjan (PERKAJAS) that has make use of the Cultural Sector Matching Grant to organise the lively festival.
“I applaud the organisation of the Tourism, Art and Culture Fiesta @ Simunjan, which could help speed up the recovery phase of this industry (tourism industry), that has been severely affected for the past two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Activities such as the Simunjan Traditional Food Festival, the Sarawak Malay Drum Festival, and even the Simunjan Traditional Games Festival including those that we may have never heard of such as Gudi Bergela, Batak Perahu, Garaji Kayu and Tarik Upeh, become highlights that can attract visitors from outside to experience this unique culture,” she said.
She said this at the launching of the event at the Simunjan Central Field yesterday.
Nancy who is also Batang Sadong MP noted that the art works in Simunjan could be a new attraction.
“Lobster sculpture, 3D painting on the esplanade floor as well as multi-coloured hanging ornaments at the entrance of Central Field are projects that we hold together with the National Art Gallery.
“In order to attract young people, we also get public university students in Simunjan to be involved as volunteers under the volunteerism programme to work together with professional artists to develop these works of art.
“In this way, we can unearth new local talents who are interested in art and they can learn and gain knowledge from professional artists.
“This can also encourage all levels of society regardless of their field and background, who have different ideas, to highlight their identity in the arts and tourism sector.”
