By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Feb 4: Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has mooted the idea to set up a mini performing arts centre in Miri to attract high-yield tourists to Miri Mayor Adam Yii.
“I believe with the establishment of the centre, it can help to attract tourists who appreciate arts to come to the city, apart from showcasing our culture and foods,” Abdul Karim said at the launch of the Miri Chinese New Year Bazaar last night (Feb 3).
He further explained that the centre can be used to showcase the various performances of the ethnic groups in Miri.
Meanwhile, he said many future plans have been outlined for Miri City.
Besides culture and good food as pulling factors, Abdul Karim said the State government wanted to see more events, such as the Miri Chinese New Year Bazaar, being organised which highlights food and culture that have a strong pulling factor.
Abdul Karim also suggested that the former Miri Resident office at Jalan Kingsway be transformed into an art and culture building showcasing the various ethnic groups in Miri.
He also reassured the organiser of the bazaar, the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), that his ministry will always give its support.
“Next year, my ministry will set aside an allocation totalling RM150,000 to this event,” he said.
The bazaar, organised since 2000, will be held until February 9 and features over 300 stalls along the High Street and Kingsway roads.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Miri MP Chiew Choon Man, Jeffery Phang representing Minister of Transport Sarawak Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak Tourism Board chairman Dato Dennis Ngau, MCCCI chairman Ling Chiong Sing, and Yii were present. — DayakDaily
