Elevate Borneo’s arts and creative industries globally

KUCHING: Efforts to elevate the arts, culture and creative industries of Borneo on a global scale are crucial.

In stating this, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this is because it is good for economic growth and progression.

“For us in Sarawak, the vision of becoming a developed state by 2030 through the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 also includes investing and supporting the creative as well arts industries.

“Such endeavour will enrich our cultural fabrics and pride while promoting a more vibrant, innovative and inclusive future for all communities,” he said.

He said this at the official opening ceremony of the Conference on Borneo Arts and Creative Awards (BACA) 2024 at Pullman Hotel here on Friday.

Abdul Karim also said creativity and the arts are vital elements in shaping the identity of a society.

“Such is true because they serve as vivid reflections of the intrinsic cultural values, traditions, and heritage that we have inherited from our forefathers and that we should take pride in.

“Through the arts, we are therefore able to convey the stories, history, and aspirations of future generations,” he said.

He said thus, the Sarawak government is always committed to empowering the local arts and creative industries that are beneficial to our multi-ethnic communities who can express their unique narratives as well as traditions.

“Today, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our local artists who have showcased their talents across various fields.

“These include visual arts, music, and theatre performances to film and animation. Thus, I am immensely proud of their achievements in placing Borneo on the world map through their creative works,” he said.

He also mentioned the role of technology and innovation in today’s arts industry.

“With the advancements in digital platforms, more artists can leverage social media and digital applications to share their creations with a global audience.

“This opens broader opportunities for our young people to compete on the international stage,” he said.

Earlier, the event was organised by Sarawak Artists’ Armada Association (ARAS), the National Book Development Foundation (YPBN), and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS).

It was to celebrate the remarkable local artistic and creative talents from Sarawak and Borneo.