Kuching Comic Con 2025 positions Sarawak as regional hub for creative economy

KUCHING (Dec 13): Kuching Comic Con (KCC) 2025 is more than a gathering of pop culture enthusiasts — it is a dynamic platform that nurtures local talent, empowers creative communities, and positions Sarawak as an emerging hub in the regional creative economy, said Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.

The State Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister said the convention unites comics, animation, film, gaming, content creation, cosplay, music, and hobbyist culture into a single ecosystem that reflects the creative heartbeat of Sarawak’s youth.

“KCC represents precisely the kind of creative movement we want to nurture — homegrown, passionate and proudly Sarawakian,” he said during the KCC 2025 opening at the Pullman hotel here.

Ting noted that the event provides a unique meeting point where Western and Eastern comic traditions intersect with Malaysia’s own comic and animation heritage, creating a cultural platform that appeals to all age groups.

He also highlighted the opportunities KCC offers rising Sarawak talents, including artists, performers, and game developers, who are increasingly bringing local creativity onto national and international stages.

“Our ministry is committed to empowering creative communities, nurturing local talent and supporting platforms that allow Sarawakians, especially young people, to shine,” he said.

According to Ting, the ministry’s support includes strengthening creative capacity through training and workshops, facilitating industry-led knowledge exchange, and creating opportunities for local artists, animators, illustrators, cosplayers, and filmmakers to showcase their work.

He stressed that creative industries are no longer peripheral sectors but are key components of Sarawak’s transformation into an innovation-driven society, adding that KCC inspires young people to imagine, innovate, and create.

Ting also highlighted the economic impact of events such as Kuching Comic-Con, which attract visitors, artists, and exhibitors from across Malaysia and abroad, boosting hotel occupancy and increasing spending on food, retail, transport, and entertainment.

“With pop culture tourism gaining popularity among Millennials and Gen Z, Sarawak has the potential to position itself as a regional hub for creative tourism.

“We believe KCC can evolve into a signature annual tourism product,” he added.

Also present at the opening were State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) chief executive officer Dato Ir Ts Sudarnoto Osman, Business Events Sarawak General Manager (Business Development and Services) Anedia Kahar and KCC founder and event curator Musriffin Sani Musa.