Sibu urged to request for performing arts centre  

SIBU: The establishment of a performing arts centre in any location depends on the initiative of local leaders and communities, said Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts.

He said the Sarawak government is converting the old Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) building in Kuching into a performing arts centre.

The renovation is expected to be completed within two years.

“Earlier, while having a light snack before coming to this event, I was asked if other places would have a centre like this. My response was that it depends on the local area, whether in Sibu or elsewhere.

Modern dance performance.
 

A Chinese traditional fan dance performance.
 

A Chinese barrel drum or tanggu performance.

“The local community should make a request if they want such a facility to be built or opened in Sibu. We need this kind of infrastructure to showcase our performing arts and talent,” he said during the opening ceremony of the 10th Sibu International Dance Festival (SIDF) at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 on Sunday night (Sept 17).

He stressed that the community’s role is crucial in determining whether a performing arts centre can be established, noting the importance of this type of infrastructure in promoting local talent and arts.

Praising the outdoor performances, Abdul Karim said dedicated indoor facilities would enhance both performance quality and audience experience.

“I’m not saying that holding performances in open spaces like this one (Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang) is bad. But, of course, factors like rain can affect the quality of the performances.

“For example, when I attended the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) here, it was also raining. I can’t recall whether it was last year or the year before. The rain prevented the performers from fully expressing themselves,” he added.

He said if the construction of a new performing arts centre in Sibu is not feasible, the renovation of the existing civic centre should be considered as a viable alternative to host such events without weather-related interruptions.

The SIDF, now in its 10th year, is organised by Hornland Dance Theatre with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, and the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC).

The festival, running from Sept 17 to 19, promises a captivating mix of modern and traditional dance performances.

Among those present were Abdul Karim’s deputy, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Sibu MP Oscar Ling, SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh, and organising chairman Chen Ing Kuan.

CAPTIONS:

SBW-karim center-1808-avk-1: (From left) Chen, Snowdan, Abdul Karim, Ling, and invited guests in a group photo after the opening ceremony gimmick.