By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 14: Sarawak is reaffirming its commitment to positioning the creative industry as a key driver of economic growth and cultural identity through the organisation of ‘Kre8tif! East 2025’.
According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the presence of participants, creative professionals, industry representatives, students, and international delegates at the event reflects a shared commitment to advancing the creative ecosystem across boundaries and backgrounds.
He highlighted the role of the Sarawak Creative Industry Committee (SCIC), which he chairs, as a coordinating platform for policy alignment, strategic planning, and engagement within the State’s creative ecosystem.
“This approach is in line with the aspirations of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which positions the creative industry as a vital component of Sarawak’s development,” he said during his speech at the launch of Kre8tif! East 2025, held at the Makeramai Makerspace in a shopping mall here today.
The programme was officiated by Deputy Minister of Digital Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Ukas reported.
Snowdan also noted that the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) can play a pivotal role in leading Sarawak’s creative transformation.
Among the key initiatives highlighted was the development of the Creative Industry Directory in collaboration with Swinburne University Sarawak to enhance industry networking and visibility.
He added that international collaborations are being expanded through networks such as the World Craft Council, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and various regional bodies to elevate local heritage arts and crafts.
Snowdan further emphasised that events like the upcoming BorneoCraft Global Expo & Conference 2024 are a testament to Sarawak’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sustainability in the creative sector.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) in supporting digital entrepreneurs and content creators through innovation hubs and facilities like the Makeramai Makerspace.
Strong collaboration between MTCP and SDEC, he said, is key to unlocking the full potential of Sarawak’s creative talents and achieving the vision of becoming a leading centre for cultural creativity and innovation in Southeast Asia.
“Let us continue working together to empower creativity, foster digital innovation, and celebrate cultural excellence – not only in Sarawak but also across the region,” he said. — DayakDaily
