Construction of Sarawak Performing Arts Center ahead of schedule

KUCHING, 2 Oct: The Sarawak Performing Arts Centre construction project involving alterations to the old State Assembly (DUN) building has now reached 46 percent progress and is expected to be completed by June 2027.

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the progress of the project is now 1.6 percent ahead of schedule.

"The project's progress is now 46 percent. Much of the challenging core work has been completed and now focus is on internal detail work, including installation and configuration of information technology (IT) systems and related work", he said.

He said this when meeting with the media after reviewing the construction site of Sarawak Performing Arts Centre, here today.

According to him, the progress of the project ahead of schedule gives confidence that the centre can be completed within the deadline if there are no obstacles.

He said the commitments of consultants, Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR), ministries and contractors also contributed to the smooth implementation of the project.

"With the team we have now and the commitment I see from the consultants, JKR, ministries and contractors, I think we should be able to prepare it in time", he said.

Abdul Karim said that the construction project involves three main components: performance arts center, The Old Lapau building which will house restaurants and also upgraded hot water area.

He said that if completed by June 2027, the complex could potentially be used to host arts and culture events in conjunction with the SEA Games scheduled for September of the same year.

"We want visitors from Southeast Asian countries present to have the opportunity to enjoy our culture and performances, thus making this complex a space for support, recreation and cultural preservation", he said.

He said that the complex will not only be a performance center, but also designed as an area suitable for leisure activities and family visits.

Meanwhile, Abdul Karim said the original identity of the more than five decades old building will be maintained through the maintenance of elements such as wooden panels and golden glass mosaic roof to preserve its aesthetic and historical value.