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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 5: Filmmakers participating in the Asean International Film Festival and Award (AIFFA) 2023 are encouraged to stay longer and explore the various breathtaking “natural studios” that Sarawak offers.
Extending this invitation to filmmakers, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted that Sarawak has its own unique cultures, delectable cuisines, movies, and beautiful locations.
“I believe Asean filmmakers can also be a creative force to promote Southeast Asia.
“My ministry is more than happy to assist this. We have already started film financing applications for filmmakers who are interested to use Sarawak as a location or those who want to promote Sarawak through film,” he said in his pre-recorded speech broadcasted at the AIFFA 2023 Gala Night held at a hotel here yesterday (Aug 4).
Recognising the monumental value of the creative industry, Abdul Karim underscored that the Sarawak government has meticulously established the necessary infrastructure to integrate Sarawak into this trillion-dollar sector.
He said the Sarawak government recognises the important role the creative industry has developed globally and the opportunities it brings and also the importance of digital technology in driving economic prosperity.
“With that in mind, we established the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) to oversee the formulation and implementation of communication and multimedia policies to advance Sarawak’s digital economy.
“The Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) was also intiated, entrusted with executing digital initiatives, aimed at the private sector. We have also prepared the younger generation through the Centexs Digital Academy to satisfy the digital economy workforce, apart from establishing Sarawak’s own television station TVS so that there is an avenue for content creators, producers and performers to showcase their works worldwide,” he added.
Abdul Karim expressed his gratification over AIFFA’s remarkable evolution since its inception in 2013, as it has now blossomed into a significant cinematic event with substantial influence.
Notably, the Asean secretariat has recognised AIFFA as the premier festival for the Asean region.
Abdul Karim extended his heartfelt gratitude to all participants of AIFFA 2023, with special mention to Rain, the accomplished multi-talented South Korean star, for his participation and presence.
Rain was duly honored with the esteemed Asean Inspiration Award during the AIFFA 2023. — DayakDaily
