KUCHING: Efforts to elevate Padungan's history and identity through the production of mural art not only strengthen the heritage value, but also highlight Kuching's potential as a creative city based on public art.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that mural art shapes the visual identity of a city, thus creating a more lively, dynamic and attractive atmosphere.
According to him, the approach is a strategic step in empowering the urban landscape through an artistic touch that is close to the community, in addition to strengthening the attraction of tourism based on culture and history.
"This project is being implemented in conjunction with an event and requires careful planning. We will consider its importance if we want to expand it to other places.
"I realise now that this has become an interest among building owners. They want to see murals on their respective buildings.
"So, they can submit proposals to MBKS or the ministry, and we will examine each application based on consideration," he said.
He said this when speaking at a press conference after concluding a brief ceremony to launch seven special murals in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of Padungan, with the theme 'Celebrating a Century of History, Culture and Community' organised by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), here on Thursday.
The murals were produced by local artist Leonard Siaw, which showcased Padungan's journey over the past century, including the arrival of the Chinese community who migrated and worked to develop the area, positioning it as a highlight of Kuching city today.
According to Dato Sri Abdul Karim, Leonard is no stranger to the world of mural art as he has produced various iconic works around Kuching, including at India Street, Batu 10 as well as a mural themed after a jazz band at the Riverside Hotel.
He added that such artwork makes Kuching more vibrant and attracts the attention of visitors, who often use the murals as a backdrop for taking pictures before sharing them on social media, indirectly helping to promote Kuching city to a wider level when the pictures are spread all over the world.
“This is an example of how heritage and creativity can be combined to strengthen the city’s identity and benefit the community,” he said.
With an approach centered on arts and heritage, Padungan is now not only celebrated as a historic area, but is also increasingly known as a central location that reflects the creative identity of Kuching city.
The brief ceremony was also attended by MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, MTCP Permanent Secretary Morshidi Fredrick and other guests. -UKASnews
Prepared By: Leya Ameera Annuar Rigos
Translator: Nerissa Sia
