SIBU,Sept 24: There is a strong possibility that Borneo Tribal Music Festival (BTMF) will become an iconic international event for Sibu.
That is the view of Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Art permanent secretary, Hii Chang Kee when speaking at the inaugural BTMF last night.
“If BTMF is to be held every year and with the strong support from Sibu Municipal Council including those related to the tourism industry, it could become another international event,” he said.
Hii gave the examples of Borneo Cultural Festival, Sibu International Dance Festival (SIDF) and Sibu International Base Jump (SIBJ) that are known internationally.
With BTMF, he said major towns and cities in the state now have their own music festival.
“This BTMF is the first for Sibu. Kuching has two, in the form of Kuching Jazz Festival, Rainforest World Music Festival while Miri is famous for its Borneo Jazz Festival. We are happy with the establishment of BTMF which has the potential for obtaining similar status,” he explained.
Hii assured that his ministry will continue to support any festival activity in the State, which includes BTMF.
Meanwhile La Vie Event & Management managing director and BTMF organising chairman, Wilfred Gan said they had sold between 1,500 and 2,000 tickets for the two-night event.
The venue, which is Rajang Esplanade can accommodate about 1,000 people at a time.
“We have artists and popular deejays from several countries whichIndonesia, Vietnam, West Malaysia and locals who are taking part in this tribal music festival,” said Gan. — DayakDaily
