Chen (second from left) presenting a souvenir to Abdul Karim, who advised Sibu residents to formally request for a dedicated performing arts centre.
SIBU folk have been advised to formally request for a performing arts centre to be set up.
“The local community should make a request if they want such a facility to be opened in Sibu, Sarawak.
“We need this kind of infrastructure to showcase our performing arts and talent,” said Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Speaking at the opening of the three-day Sibu International Dance Festival (SIDF) at Tun Tuanku Bujang Square in Sibu, Abdul Karim pointed to the example of Kuching’s old Sarawak Legislative Assembly building that was being renovated into a performing arts centre.
It is slated for completion in 2027.
“Earlier, I was asked if similar centres like this one would be set up in other places.
“I said it would depend on the area, whether in Sibu or elsewhere,” he added.
Abdul Karim said a dedicated performing arts centre would enable higher standard performances for more audiences.
“I’m not saying that holding performances in open spaces like this one (Tun Tuanku Bujang Square) is bad.
“But factors such as rain can affect the quality of the performances.
“For example, when it rained at Borneo Cultural Festival a previous year, it prevented the performers from fully expressing themselves.”
Abdul Karim also voiced hope that if a performing arts centre could not be built, then the local civic centre should be renovated as soon as possible.
“That way, we can have a space for events like this without having to worry about the weather,” he said.
The SIDF’s 10th edition was organised by Hornland Dance Theatre, Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry, and Sibu Municipal Council (SMC).
The festival showcased different types of modern and traditional dances over three days.
Also present at the event were Abdul Karim’s deputy Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Sibu MP Oscar Ling, SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh and organising chairman Chen Ing Kuan.
