KUCHING: The ‘Rise Of The True King Jr’ theatre performance, which uses the English language entirely, is described as a bold and progressive effort in strengthening the performing arts culture in Sarawak, thus opening up wider space for the involvement and development of young generation talents in the field of performing arts.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said that the approach not only enriches the variety of stage performances, but also has the potential to stimulate the organisation of more quality productions in the future, including encouraging the use of English as a medium of performance.

"This is a very bold attempt. Although there have been performances before, this performance provides a great opportunity to be organised again in the future and the use of English is encouraged," he said.

He said this when met by the media while attending the theatre performance at the Balai Budaya, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) here on Sunday.

He added that the involvement of children and youth as early as primary school level in stage performances is a positive approach that should be welcomed and supported continuously.

He explained that the effort is in line with Sarawak's direction as a state that places serious emphasis on the development of culture and performing arts activities.

"Sarawak is moving towards strengthening culture and performing arts activities, especially with the plan to complete an arts centre at the Old Sarawak Legislative Assembly in the next two years, which is expected to be one of the largest arts centres in Malaysia," he said.

He also expressed confidence that the young generation involved in the performance has great potential to perform at the arts centre in the future.

Meanwhile, Datuk Abdullah expressed his appreciation to the theatre director and the entire production team, including the backstage staff consisting of youth.

Apart from the support of the government and relevant agencies, he stressed the need for funding support to ensure the continuity of high-quality performing arts productions in Sarawak.

"Stage performances like this require comprehensive support, including funding support. I hope that efforts to support such productions can continue," he said.

The theatre production of ‘Rise Of The True King Jr’ is among the arts initiatives that showcase young local talent and reflects Sarawak’s commitment to producing a new generation that is competitive in the field of performing arts. -UKASnews