The Sarawak government is allocating more than RM200mil to turn the old State Assembly building in Kuching into a performing arts centre. Photo: Filepic/The Star
The Sarawak government has announced that it is allocating more than RM200mil to convert the old State Assembly building in Kuching into a performing arts centre.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the history of Sarawak can be introduced not only with exhibitions or the study of artefacts, but also through arts and culture performances.
"The Sarawak government wants to have a slightly different approach. You can study from artefacts as well as exhibitions but the next stage is to translate the historical events into a performance, like musical theatre,” he said.
Speaking at the opening of the recent national-level International Museum Day in Kuching, he said a team was sent to London recently to study the interior construction and sound system at the Royal Albert Hall, which is a world-class performing arts centre.
"It (Sarawak Performing Arts Center) must have a good sound system and also a modern stage to showcase our performances and this is how we translate and bring to life what is in Sarawak," he said.
Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, in his speech at the event, said museum institutions play an important role in maintaining and protecting the nation's history and culture.
He added it also makes the institution an agent in strengthening the identity of the communities in the country.
"Malaysia is indeed well-known internationally as a pluralistic, harmonious and progressive country," he said. - Bernama
