KUCHING: The construction of the Sarawak Performing Arts Centre is currently progressing smoothly and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2027.

Although there has been a slight delay compared to the original schedule, Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said his ministry is satisfied with the progress of the project, set to become a major catalyst for hosting large-scale events in Sarawak.

According to him, the new facility will offer a much larger audience capacity compared to existing auditoriums, in addition to being equipped with higher-quality acoustic systems.

“Currently, the hosting of many events has to be held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, Borneo Cultures Museum, and sometimes we arrange them in other places such as the Blessed Centre, the Amphitheatre, and the Kuching South City Council auditorium.

“So, with the Performing Arts Centre in the future, things will be more organised as we will bring our major events there,” he said.

He said this when met by reporters after attending the Closing Ceremony of the ‘Born To Dance International Competition’ 2026 at the Borneo Cultures Museum here on Sunday.

Commenting on the development of the state's tourism sector, he emphasised that increasing the number of events is a vital strategy in ensuring Kuching remains a dynamic city that is not ‘boring’.

“To me, a boring city — one without entertainment, without night lighting like neon lights — will be seen as unattractive.

“When a city is unattractive, visitor interest will also decrease. Therefore, if a city can be enlivened with various activities such as entertainment, sports, food events, and festivals, it has the potential to attract more visitors and boost the city's atmosphere,” he added.

He further noted that the presence of tourists not only invigorates the tourism sector but also provides an economic spillover to the local hospitality, food, and service industries. — UKASnews

Translator: Ryan Lim