KUCHING: The Sarawak Government plans to establish a special management structure to manage the Performing Arts Centre which is being developed to ensure the operation and organisation of art programmes can be carried out more systematically.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that the structure will be discussed with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg to determine the most appropriate form of management.

“This is not because the Sarawak Arts Council is unable to manage it, but because they have enough other responsibilities.

“If they must ensure a show is held every week, it will be a heavy responsibility, therefore we may create a more appropriate management structure.

"This matter will be discussed with the Sarawak Premier to determine the best form of management for the Performing Arts Centre," he said while speaking at the Sarawak Art Council (MSS) Programme with the Media held at a hotel, here, on Tuesday.

In the meantime, Dato Sri Abdul Karim said that Sarawak is now the only state in Malaysia that actively brings performing arts groups abroad through cooperation with the Malaysian High Commission, embassies and national representatives abroad.

According to him, cultural groups from Sarawak are often invited to perform in conjunction with Malaysia Day, National Day and various official functions at Malaysian embassies abroad.

He added that the cooperation benefits both parties when the embassy provides accommodation and meals, while Sarawak covers the cost of the art group's flight.

"That way, we can showcase Sarawak's culture at the international level.

"That is why we continue to send cultural groups abroad, including from MSS and some from private performing arts groups and universities," he explained. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photo: Muhammad Ramzani