Islamic Arts Festival  a boon to human capital development

KUCHING: The 2024 Sarawak State-Level Islamic Arts Festival (IFEST) aligns with the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development’s objective of developing comprehensive human capital in rural areas.

Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the ministry, through the Department of Community Development (Kemas), aims to empower rural communities with knowledge and human development skills.

She noted that the event supports the third pillar of the Rural Development Policy (DPLB), which focuses on enhancing quality human capital.

“Undoubtedly, the festival can have a significant and positive impact on the nation’s welfare and development,” she said during the IFEST 2024 closing ceremony at the Institute for Rural Advancement (Infra) Sarawak branch on Sunday (Sept 29).

Rubiah added that Kemas Sarawak currently has 2,416 participants in Human Development classes, across 113 classes, supported by 14 supervisors and 22 Community Development officers.

“They are actively involved in human development, particularly within the Muslim community, which is a significant achievement.

“This is because Kemas remains relevant and continues to provide the best informal education for rural communities,” she said.

Meanwhile, Kemas Deputy Director-General (Management and Development) Rafea’ah Nahar said that 49 participants competed in three events: Tilawah Al-Quran, Daié, and Nasyid.

She noted that the winners of each event at the state level will represent Sarawak at the national Islamic Arts Festival in 2025.

“This festival fosters cooperation and unity within Kemas and promotes positive artistic elements in line with Islamic teachings,” she said.