What About Kuching Festival in Miri proves creativity has found a home in northern S’wak

1 hour ago 6

ADVERTISE HERE

By DayakDaily Team

MIRI, June 21: Miri’s role as a gateway to northern Sarawak, combined with its rich cultural heritage, diverse communities, and natural attractions, positions the city as a strategic hub for the growth of both the creative industry and tourism.

According to the Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, this is evident in the encouraging response to the What About Kuching (WAK) Miri Festival over the last three years.

He added that this demonstrates the strong creative spirit among the local community and the festival’s potential to become one of Sarawak’s premier events.

“This festival is not merely about entertainment. It serves as a community platform that provides opportunities for artists, musicians, creators, and creative entrepreneurs to showcase their work and potential to a wider audience,” he said during the opening ceremony of WAK Miri at the Miri Handicraft Centre on Saturday (June 20), as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).

Abdul Karim also noted that Sarawak has many talented youths who need opportunities, exposure, and platforms to showcase their abilities, and that the WAK Miri Festival is one of his ministry’s initiatives to support this development, stimulate the creative industry, and empower local talent.

Earlier on, Miri Mayor and Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang said WAK Miri has revitalised public spaces through a variety of arts, cultural, and lifestyle activities.

Yii also expressed confidence that the festival would further strengthen Miri’s position as a regional hub for creativity, tourism, and innovation.

This year’s WAK Miri Festival is held from June 19-21, featuring over 40 programmes covering music, visual arts, photography, handicrafts, cultural performances, comedy, and lifestyle activities.

Also present were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew and the ministry’s permanent secretary Morshidi Fredrick. — DayakDaily

Read Entire Article