By Amanda L
KUCHING, Aug 16: Sarawak wants young people to see literature and creative content as potential career opportunities as the State looks to digital platforms to expand its creative industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said literature should be brought to platforms where younger generations interact, including social media, short videos, podcasts and artificial intelligence (AI).
His speech was delivered by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who represented him at the closing ceremony and prize presentation of the 40th National Independence Poetry Recitation Competition (SDPK) 2026 here last night (Aug 15).
According to him, poetry could be presented through short films, animation, music and digital performances to attract younger audiences and reach a wider public including internationally.
“This is also in line with Sarawak’s aspiration to develop the digital creative industry.
“Young people should see arts, culture, writing and creative content not merely as side activities, but as spaces to build careers, create value and generate income,” he said.
Abang Johari said digital technology could help preserve literary works while introducing them to wider audiences through new forms of content.
He also stressed that Sarawak’s development should go beyond economic and technological progress, with literature, arts and culture playing an important role in developing people and preserving identity.
The Premier said Sarawak’s diverse languages, cultures, heritage and histories should continue to be documented before they were lost over time.
“Progress that we build must have a soul,” he said.
He also described the poetry competition as more than a contest, saying it could help revive patriotism, appreciate the history of the nation’s struggles and convey the values of independence to present and future generations.
The 40th edition of SDPK was themed “Maruah dan Kedaulatan Bangsa”, with its poetry anthology titled “Atma Berdaulat”.
The event also saw Sarawak’s Khalid Hussiene Tuah emerge as the winner, followed by Noor Azli Sudin of Perak in second place and Farah Nabilla Noor Anuar of Negeri Sembilan in third. — DayakDaily
