Rumah Sarawak to be upgraded into new Sarawak Arts Council headquarters

Suffian presenting a memento to Abdul Karim (third left) at the Sarawak Arts Council Media Engagement event at a hotel in Kuching on June 30, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 30: The Sarawak government has approved a proposal to upgrade the heritage building Rumah Sarawak at Taman Perpaduan into the new headquarters of the Sarawak Arts Council (SAC), in a move aimed at strengthening the region’s arts, culture, and creative industry ecosystem.

In a TVS news, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the decision had received the endorsement of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said Rumah Sarawak, formerly the Chief Minister’s residence, holds significant heritage value and offers a tranquil, green environment well-suited for artistic inspiration.

“Our Premier is fond of the location because of its calm surroundings, abundant greenery, and suitability as a creative space for artists, including those in dance and performing arts.

“Alhamdulillah, the Sarawak government has agreed to allocate the hill site for the Sarawak Arts Council,” he said this when speaking at the Sarawak Arts Council Media Engagement event held at a hotel here today.

Abdul Karim said upgrading and renovation works on the building will proceed, but assured that ongoing arts programmes will not be disrupted.

He stressed that activities such as coaching classes, singing lessons, and talent development programmes must continue without interruption.

“To avoid any disruption, we have identified a suitable nearby location under the ministry to serve as a temporary SAC office while renovation works are carried out,” he said.

He added that the proposal will be brought to the State Cabinet and the Premier for formal approval before implementation.

On broader developments, he said Sarawak’s performing arts sector is being further strengthened through the ongoing establishment of a dedicated performing arts centre.

He noted that Sarawak is increasingly active in promoting its arts and culture internationally through collaborations with embassies and Malaysian High Commissions abroad.

Sarawakian cultural groups have previously been showcased on international stages in Japan, South Korea, Bali, Barcelona, and Paris.

“Last year, we sent BandLab and an orchestra to Japan, the School of Arts to Korea, Unimas Bayu Group to the Bali Arts Festival, and UiTM representatives to Barcelona and Paris, among others. It is not only dancers we promote, but also chefs.

“This reflects Sarawak’s growing global presence. We have many talented artists, musicians, dancers, and artisans capable of presenting our culture on the world stage,” he said.

He said the Sarawak Arts Council plays a crucial role in strengthening the region’s cultural landscape and serving as a unifying platform for Sarawak’s diverse communities through the arts.

“SAC has an important responsibility. I hope it continues to grow and becomes a key driver in advancing Sarawak’s arts, culture, and heritage,” he said.

SAC chief executive officer Dr Suffian Jalet were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily