By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, June 13: Mural art holds the power to drive community development, boost tourism, and strengthen the creative economy in Sarawak.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that mural art is not merely decorative, but a reflection of the people’s identity and aspirations.
“This form of art also has the unique ability to unite communities, empower citizens, and transform public spaces into platforms for dialogue and shared understanding,” he said.
His remarks were conveyed through a speech delivered by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, during the Mercure Miri Mural Fest & Art Conference: Beyond Art – Evolving in 50 Years today.
The event brings together mural artists from the United Kingdom, China, Taiwan, and Sarawak in a collaborative public art initiative that not only enhances the visual landscape of the city but also amplifies the voices of the community, including those with special needs.
The Premier also lauded Mercure Miri City Centre and EvolveLand Bhd for organising the international-scale event and congratulated Mercure Miri for becoming the first hotel in Malaysia to receive Green Key certification—an achievement that reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
He further urged all stakeholders—including local authorities, tourism agencies, and the private sector—to support public art as a long-term investment in shaping urban identity and fostering community pride.
“Let us collectively preserve and promote public art so it may become a cherished legacy for future generations,” he added.
The event also featured organisations such as Empower Special Needs Connection and Malaysian Care, enabling individuals with special needs to contribute meaningfully to the creation of public murals—an approach celebrated for its inclusivity and social impact.
The mural festival runs from June 4 to 11, while the two-day art conference will be held from June 13 to 14 at Mercure Hotel Miri.
Among those present were Deputy Minister for Tourism Dato Sebastian Ting and acting permanent secretary of the Ministry Julim Alen. — DayakDaily
