Latest news with #CreativeIndustryandPerformingArts
Borneo Post
9 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak Craft Council formed under new ordinance to boost local industry
Abdul Karim says the industry had previously lacked a formal administrative structure. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (June 20): Sarawak's craft industry will undergo structured development with the establishment of the Sarawak Craft Council, following the gazettement of the Sarawak Craft Council Ordinance 2023 on May 1 this year. The ordinance provides a legal framework to promote and develop the local craft sector while uniting communities through Sarawak's artistic and cultural heritage. State Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the industry had previously lacked a formal administrative structure. 'In the past, the Sarawak Craft Council was only run by a manager. Now, with this ordinance, we have a chief executive officer ― Suriya Charles Baos,' he said during a press conference after chairing the council's first official meeting here today. He also announced the appointment of the council's board members, including renowned crafts expert Edric Ong, Tanoti Sdn Bhd founder Dato Jacqueline Fong, and Sarawak Crafts Association for Rural Community Development president Nur Rahmah Ranong Abdullah. He noted that the board selection reflects Sarawak's ethnic diversity. 'We want all races to feel represented,' he said. Abdul Karim himself has been appointed as chairman of the council, while his deputy, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, serves as deputy chairman. He said the council is tasked with introducing a branding mechanism ― such as 'Sarawak Best' ― to ensure local crafts are recognised as high-quality products capable of competing in the global market. In addition, the council will play a role in setting benchmark pricing to protect the value of local crafts, as well as organising regular expos and seminars, including the biennial Borneo Global Craft event. He said the council will also explore strategic partnerships with corporate entities such as Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, to empower rural craft makers. 'If we can successfully develop craft communities in longhouses or villages, they can earn extra income. This will not only help uplift the household economy, but also preserve the heritage,' he said. Abdul Karim expressed confidence that the Sarawak Craft Council will evolve into an independent institution capable of managing the state's craft industry in a more organised and sustainable manner. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah sarawak craft council
Borneo Post
14 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
New Sarawak Craft Council HQ, gallery to be built in Kuching
Abdul Karim (centre) speaks to the media at the press conference while Snowdan (right) and Sherrina look on. – Photo by Agnes Tugong KUCHING (June 20): A one-stop craft centre is set to be built in the heart of Kuching to serve as the headquarters of the Sarawak Craft Council and a dedicated gallery for local craft products, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. He said the centre will be strategically located behind the Sikh Temple adjacent to the road leading to the Borneo Cultures Museum. 'This will be the central hub for Sarawak's craft activities. Museum visitors who wish to purchase local craft items can head directly to the centre after their visit,' he told a press conference after chairing the Sarawak Craft Council meeting today, adding that construction is expected to take approximately two years. Abdul Karim, is also the newly appointed Sarawak Craft Council chairman, said the council's temporary office will operate out of the Sarawak Steamship Building until the new facility is ready. He did not disclose the cost and when the construction will begin. On a related note, Abdul Karim said to further promote local crafts and recognise outstanding artisans, a Sarawak Craft Festival or Craft Day will be introduced soon. The festival, he added, would become a regular event, potentially starting as early as next year, to honour exceptional crafters through awards, certificates, or even designating craft icons He added that to streamline policy implementation and promotional efforts, all craft centres in Miri, Sibu, and other locations will be brought under the purview of the Sarawak Craft Council. 'Registration with the Sarawak Craft Council is encouraged to have access to various benefits such as support funds, promotions as well as skills development and marketing programmes. 'We have funds such as the Facilitation Fund, and if they do not want to register, they will lose out,' he said. To boost global visibility, Abdul Karim said the council would also help artisans market their products online and facilitate participation in international tourism and trade events such as ITB Berlin and the World Travel Market in London. He said the uniqueness and authenticity of Sarawak's crafts are major selling points on the global stage. 'Authentic and fine handmade products always have their own values. We need to patent our designs so that they are not copied or registered by outsiders,' he said. As an example, he cited the traditional Iban top hat 'Topi Tunjang', which recently drew the attention of the French President Emmanuel Macron during the 'Revelations Biennale Paris 2025' exhibition in Paris on May 21, as proof that Sarawak crafts have strong international appeal when properly showcased. Abdul Karim expressed confidence that with a comprehensive development strategy, Sarawak could not only become a national craft hub but also a benchmark for the regional craft industry. Also present at the press conference were State Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Snowdan Lawan and the ministry's permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini.
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak eyes closer ties with Spain's Valladolid after successful world tapas event in Kuching
Ting tries some of the dishes prepared by participants accompanied by Sim (left). – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (June19): Sarawak has expressed keen interest in strengthening ties with Valladolid, Spain, following the successful hosting of the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition Exhibition and Seminar 2025. State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said Spain's participation in the gastronomic event has opened new avenues for dialogue and exchange between the two regions. 'We recognise the immense potential for future collaboration in tourism, gastronomy, the creative industries, and cultural exchange. 'It is our hope that the relationships formed through this event will serve as a foundation for joint initiatives, knowledge sharing, and the co-hosting of international events that bring mutual benefit to both Sarawak and Valladolid,' he said in his closing remarks during the event at KTS Garden here today. His speech was delivered by Deputy State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Sebastian Ting. The three-day event, which gathered chefs, food experts, professionals, industry leaders, and exhibitors from around the world, featured food and beverage exhibitions, workshops on sustainability – including carbon-neutral food production and eco-friendly packaging – as well as talks by international speakers from China, Indonesia, and Malaysia on halal compliance, food safety, and recycling. Highlights included the tapas competitions and the inaugural Barista Art Challenge, which celebrated creativity and craftsmanship in food and drinks. Abdul Karim commended all participants for their energy and commitment, noting that their contributions played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. 'We have had the privilege of witnessing a vibrant exchange of knowledge, the sharing of innovative ideas, and the forging of meaningful collaborations. 'The diversity of expertise and the strong spirit of partnership displayed throughout this event have enriched our collective experience and broadened our horizons,' he said. He also congratulated the contestants of the World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competitions, describing their passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence as 'truly inspiring'. 'To the winners, please accept my warmest congratulations and best wishes as you prepare to represent Malaysia and your respective countries at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain this coming November. 'May you continue to excel and bring pride to your country and region on the global stage.' During the ceremony, Ting presented prizes to the winners. Chef Liew Kit Kiet emerged as the champion of the World National Tapas Competition, impressing judges with his Sarawak laksa. First and second runner-up titles went to Chef Jack Owen Atit and Chef Virginia Mary Kedi, respectively. Liew, who hails from Miri, will represent Malaysia at the World Tapas Championship in Valladolid, Spain this November. Two subsidiary titles were also presented: the 'Most Creative Award' went to Chef Nila Kelly, while Chef Mexjenssan Jumpong won the 'Most Commercially Viable Award'. For the World Asia Tapas Competition, four international chefs – Chef Jose Alfonso Rodriguez from Indonesia; Chef Patcharapol Lerdsasempod from Thailand; Chef Daniel Chen Cheng Dian from Taiwan; and Chef Choi Gyeong-Hun from South Korea – were selected as winners and will also advance to the global championship in Spain. Also present at the ceremony were Spain's Public-Private Partnership for Promotion of Tourism of Valladolid general manager Juan Manuel Guimerans Rubio; World Tapas Competition director Angel Moreton; World National Tapas and World Asia Tapas Competition head of juror Chef Jasbir Kaur; and Sarawak International Technical and Vocational Education Association president and event organising chairperson Sim Ling Ling.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak sets global stage for music, performing arts with sustainable growth vision
Abdul Karim (third left) and other officials give a thumbs-up during the RAYS 2025. – Photo by Matthew Umpang KUCHING (June 18): Sarawak is steadily building momentum toward becoming a competitive international destination for music and performance-based events, driven by strong government support, sustainable practices and upcoming infrastructure development, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. He noted that the state's commitment to the performing arts is evident in the continued success of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), which enters its 28th edition this weekend. 'Across Asean, music festivals are mushrooming, and Sarawak is no exception. We hosted Boney M in January and will be welcoming Air Supply soon. The RWMF also remains a major highlight on our events calendar,' he told reporters after officiating the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2025 at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today. Abdul Karim also pointed out that what sets Sarawak apart is its commitment to environmental responsibility in organising such events despite seeing an increase in music events since the Covid-19 pandemic, in tandem with similar growth across the region. He said a portion of RWMF ticket sales goes towards forest replanting efforts and the event prohibits the sale of drinks in plastic bottles, as patrons are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers. 'We want festival goers to not only enjoy the music, but also understand their responsibility towards the environment. This sustainability-first approach is also applied to other events organised through the Sarawak Tourism Board and Business Events Sarawak.' Looking ahead, Abdul Karim noted that Sarawak aspires to host mega concerts, but current infrastructure presents some challenges. He added that the state's plan to launch its own airline by the end of next year would further improve connectivity, opening new possibilities for bringing in international performers and attracting regional audiences. 'Our stadium can cater for up to 30,000 people, while our indoor venues can only hold 4,000 to 5,000. We are also constructing a second Borneo Convention Centre, which will have a 10,000-capacity hall and is expected to be ready in two years. 'With better flight access, we can plan targeted events. For instance, if a concert features Korean artistes, we can focus on bringing in fans from South Korea,' he said. Apart from that, Abdul Karim said the state government also ensures that events cater to a wide demographic, with concerts designed for both younger and older audiences, including retro acts popular among those in their 40s and 50s. He acknowledged the high costs involved in staging large-scale performances, noting that decisions must strike a balance between ambition and financial viability. 'We are building capacity, but we must also be mindful of sustainability not only environmentally, but economically.' Abdul Karim said Sarawak's development of its performing arts scene aligns with its Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to make the state a high-income economy through sustainable development. He pointed to ongoing efforts in renewable energy, hydrogen-powered public transport, and green building designs, such as the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, as examples of Sarawak's long-term commitment. 'With the right infrastructure, connectivity and values, Sarawak is well positioned to elevate its performing arts sector to the global stage,' he added. Also present at the press conference were State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts deputy ministers Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan; and State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development deputy ministers Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat and Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Sarawak Museum receives new artefacts from public donors
Abdul Karim (second left) inspects the antique goldsmithing tool set and machinery with (from left) Ting, Snowdan and Nancy. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (June 18): The Sarawak Museum Department has acquired several significant artefacts from public donors, enhancing its collection of historical and cultural items. State Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah revealed that among the recent contributions is a set of antique goldsmithing tools and machinery. This set was donated by Teo Keng Boon, the grandson of the late master goldsmith Teo Chai Seng, he told a press conference after chairing a Sarawak Heritage Council meeting here today. The set, used to process and shape gold bars into plates and wires for jewellery-making, includes hand-operated machinery, a workstation, various hand tools, a gas canister, a vault, and the original shop signboard. 'Entirely operated by hand, the tools are estimated to be approximately 93 years old. The goldsmithing establishment, Chop Swee Hin, initially operated at No. 11, Jalan Rock until 1950, before relocating to No. 8, China Street, Kuching on Oct 18 1988. 'The business ceased operations permanently on Nov 29, 2005,' he said. Another notable acquisition is the tail bone of the Triso whale, part of a 13-metre sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis) skeleton recovered in November 2024. The whale carcass was found drifting in Pulau Seduku waters before becoming trapped at a bridge construction site near the Triso Ferry. 'Now part of the Museum's zoology collection, it is the largest whale specimen ever obtained and holds significant value for research and exhibition,' said Abdul Karim. The successful recovery effort was a collaborative operation involving the Sri Aman Resident Office, Lingga and Sebuyau District Offices, Sarawak Forestry Corporation, Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and the local community, he noted. The artefacts put on display during the press conference. – Photo by Roystein Emmor Also donated were two antique copper pots from Surau Darul Falah, Kampung Tupong, which were handed over by the surau's chairman, Sakeran Bujang, on June 12. 'According to Sakeran, the copper pots were used by the villagers to cook rice, porridge, and dishes during communal events, and were kept at the Surau. 'The pots are estimated to be over 70 years old, as they have been in use since the first surau was built,' Abdul Karim said. 'The current Surau, where the pots were stored, is the third to be constructed and was completed on June 10 2001,' he added. There were several other artefacts which were revealed last month, and were also put on display during the press conference. Among them were two traditional and antique Sarawak sunhats donated by John Lavery, originally belonging to his parents, Bill and Pam Lavery. 'The donor claimed that the authentic sunhats were obtained during the formation of Malaysia in 1963 in Kuching. 'Bill Lavery was posted to Limbang that same year as a teacher and later served as headmaster under the Colombo Plan of External Aid of the Canadian government to Sarawak. 'The Lavery family left Sarawak in 1965. The hats were later passed on to their son, John Lavery, who entrusted it to the Sarawak Museum for safekeeping,' Abdul Karim said. Another valuable item is an old parang (machete) from Tebakang, Serian, donated by Lewis Mengu. 'The donor claimed that this parang has been with his family for almost 100 years. 'He claimed that the parang originally belonged to a group of headhunters who confronted Bueng and his wife in the early 1900s. 'Bueng was Lewis' forefather. In the ensuing fight, Bueng fought bravely and took one of their parangs. 'He brought it back to Kampung Tebakang Bidayuh, where it became a treasured family heirloom. The parang remained with the Bueng's family, passed down through generations,' said Abdul Karim. Additionally, two unglazed ceramic vases from Santubong were donated by Mohd Rizal Bujang. His father, Bujang Abdullah, discovered them in the 1970s while fishing off the coast of Santubong with the late Ibni Zen and Othman Zen, said Abdul Karim. In another development, Abdul Karim said Sarawak is preparing to welcome an evaluation team from Unesco for the field assessment of the Sarawak Delta Geopark, scheduled for June 23 to 26. 'I am also pleased to share that the Sarawak Museum Department is actively collaborating with the Sarawak Forestry Department on the Sarawak Delta Geopark project,' he said. The Unesco assessors are expected to visit several key sites, including the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM), the Bukit Maras and Sungai Jaong archeological sites, and the Semeba Schist Tuang. 'This field evaluation mission represents a crucial step in the Sarawak Delta Geopark's journey toward being recognised as a Unesco Global Geopark,' said Abdul Karim. Also present at the press conference were State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts deputy ministers Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan, as well as State Museum Director Nancy Jolhi.
