KUCHING, Nov 20: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and wife Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang attended the Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts 2.0 (SIFMA 2.0) held at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building in Kuching tonight.
The event featured live performances by various talented Sarawakian acts including Karya Terindah Performing Arts group, Kenwy Music & Arts Academy, La Danse Studio and Russell & Randell Dance Company.
The show continued with virtual screenings of groups from Kuala Lumpur and overseas including KL Duo, The Bolshoi Ballet Company Russia, Taiwan Bamboo Orchestra, Krishna Group India, Bisayaw Philippines, National University of Singapore Choir (NUSChoir) and Suc Song Moi Bamboo Ensemble from Vietnam.
According to International Music House (IMH) executive director-cum-organising chairperson of SIFMA 2.0, Dr Geraldine Law-Lee, the Sarawak government must be applauded and appreciated for the brave steps taken to bring the arts to life again through SIFMA.
“It is the initiative of the Sarawak government through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MTAC) as well as Sarawak Arts Council (SAC) that we have to thank for, as they understand the situations and plight of all these festivals and performances.
“Apart from that, it is the real cooperation of all the artists and providers of sound, light, media and everyone who worked behind the scenes tonight that has made this a reality today,” she said during her welcoming speech.
She also mentioned that leaders such as Abang Johari and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah had been very supportive and appreciative of the arts.
SIFMA 2.0 which will end tomorrow is supported by the MTAC as well as SAC. Sponsors and supporters included Trienekens, Promenade Hotels, Instarmac, Ibraco, Dayak Cultural Foundation, Elica, Exal Co and Eurogreen world among others.
Among the highlights of SIFMA is an ongoing forum called “Let’s Talk”, featuring inspirational stories and advice from professionals and enthusiasts within the music and arts community like Andre De Quadros, Dong Quang Vinh, Tom Jackson, Matthew Koon, Edric Ong, Jolynn J Chin, Sasha Namara, Arzmy Hargreaves and more. — DayakDaily
