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By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, July 25: Twenty students from Badan Budaya Unimas (Bayu) at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) have been chosen to represent Sarawak and Malaysia next month at the prestigious ‘Festival de Confolens’, a world music and dance festival in France set to take place from Aug 9 to 15.
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Sarawak Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah announced that 20 students will depart on Thursday (July 27) to participate in the annual festival held in Confolens, southwestern France.
“I am very proud because there is still a group of young people in Sarawak who are involved in activities that honour Sarawak’s cultural heritage.
“The participation of students from various fields of study at Unimas demonstrates that the higher education centre is more than just a place to gain knowledge; it is also a place to develop a deeper interest in promoting cultural and artistic activities,” Abdul Karim said today at a press conference on Bayu’s participation in Festival de Confelens at Baitulmakmur II, Petra Jaya here.
He further stated that Bayu’s participation was backed by the heritage, arts, and culture facilitation fund of the ministry.
“The Ministry consistently offers support and opportunities to art activists, particularly young individuals, in their efforts to preserve and enhance Sarawak’s heritage art.
“This is crucial in ensuring the future growth and development of both the State and the country,” he added.
Meanwhile, Unimas vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi stated that 10 Bayu staff members will accompany the 20 students, who hail from various faculties, on the trip.
“It is an honour to represent Sarawak and Malaysia at the festival and to highlight our multicultural society,” he noted.
Furthermore, Unimas arts and cultural unit head Noor Azrul Mohd Ariff highlighted that the Bayu troupe will not perform anything modern, but rather the traditional dances of Sarawak’s ethnic groups, including the Iban, Orang Ulu, Bidayuh, Melanau, and Malay.
Also present at the press conference were MTCP Sarawak Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan and MTCP Sarawak permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini. — DayakDaily
