By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 6: Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has stressed the importance of ensuring the continuity of the What About Kuching (WAK) Festival, regardless of any changes to the State Cabinet following the upcoming Sarawak election.
In a TVS news report, he said that the continuity of the festival must be given due attention to ensure its growth is not disrupted, as it has the potential to grow into an internationally recognised open arts platform, bringing together artists, cultural practitioners, and creative industry players from Borneo, Asean and around the world.
In this regard, he urged the WAK organising team to continue strengthening its collaboration with the ministry and preserve the relationships and mutual understanding established over the years.
“With the Sarawak election drawing nearer, and the possibility of changes in the composition of the State Cabinet thereafter, we are reminded that while individuals and responsibilities may change, worthwhile institutions and initiatives must endure.
“WAK is not just another event on our tourism calendar. It is a platform owned by the creative community that has established its standing through dedication, perseverance, and collective effort over the years,” he said at the WAK Festival 2026 Appreciation Dinner here on Thursday (Nov 5) where he represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
At the same time, he called on the corporate sector, private companies, and entrepreneurs to step up their support through strategic partnerships and sponsorships to ensure the festival remains a platform for developing local talent and the creative industry.
“Investing in WAK is an investment in the creative soul of Sarawak’s people,” he said.
He explained that the benefits of supporting WAK should not be measured solely in terms of commercial returns, but should also include talent development, entrepreneurial opportunities, stronger communities and the preservation of Sarawak’s cultural identity.
Meanwhile, Abdul Karim encouraged artists, performers, cultural practitioners and creative entrepreneurs to make full use of the festival to showcase their talents and ideas, as well as establish new collaborations.
He also expressed confidence that WAK could develop into an iconic open arts festival that preserves Sarawak’s cultural identity while serving as a meeting ground for creative communities from different countries. — DayakDaily
