By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 24: Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has proposed that the Kuching Heritage Lights and Floral Festival be made an annual event in Kuching.
Abdul Karim highlighted the potential for the event to support entrepreneurs, particularly those in horticulture and plant production, and assured that his ministry would be willing to assist in making the festival a yearly tradition.
“We welcome the idea of making this an annual event. Our ministry is ready to support such efforts, as it aligns with our goals to promote events that showcase local culture and contribute to the economy,” he said.
The minister made these remarks while speaking to reporters after officiating at the Kuching Heritage Lights and Floral Festival 2024 last night (Aug 23) at the Kuching Waterfront here.
Abdul Karim, who is also Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, further praised the collaborative efforts of the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and other government agencies in organising the festival, which he described as a successful initiative that showcases the city’s vibrancy to both locals and visitors.
“The festival has truly added to the charm of Kuching, especially at a time when we have a large number of visitors, including those involved in the 2024 Malaysia Games (Sukma).
“They will be able to appreciate and enjoy what the government has accomplished,” he added.
Furthermore, the minister acknowledged the commendations received from visitors, athletes, and conference participants who have noted the cleanliness and beauty of Kuching.
“This is a reflection of the work done by various agencies, including DBKU and the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), among others,” he said.
The Kuching Heritage Lights and Floral Festival 2024, taking place at Kuching Waterfront, commenced on Aug 22 and will run until Aug 25, operating from 8am to 10pm daily.
In addition to the festival, Abdul Karim highlighted the significance of Sarawak’s traditional folk music, which was performed at the Sukma 2024 arena, in bridging cultural divides.
He noted that these songs, beloved not only by Sarawakians but by Malaysians nationwide, foster a sense of togetherness, especially when performed during celebrations.
“These songs, whether it’s ‘Bekikis Bulu Betis’ or ‘Anak Kampung,’ bring everyone together, regardless of their ethnicity,” he noted.
The minister further expressed pride in Sarawak’s unique position within Malaysia, noting that the State continues to gain recognition for its cultural contributions and sporting events, which reflect its vibrant spirit and the unity of its people.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication and Minister-in-charge of DBKU, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; DBKU Mayor Hilmy Othman; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, and State-Federal Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali; Sarawak Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni; Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datu Sherrina Hussaini; Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai; and MBKS Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili. — DayakDaily
