MIRI: Aries Kong, better known by his artistic moniker ‘Jagung’, is set to make history with the creation of Sarawak’s tallest and largest mural.
The masterpiece, a tribute to Taiwanese superstar Jay Chou and his wife, Hannah Quinlivan, is being painted on the 16th floor of the Mercure Hotel Miri and is expected to be completed in approximately three weeks.
Jagung, a Sibu-born artist, began the project on Oct 30 and hopes to finish the mural before Christmas.
Once completed, it will stand as a towering testament to his artistic vision and dedication, cementing its place as a monumental attraction in the state.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday at the mural site, Jagung expressed his gratitude for the creative freedom granted to him by Mercure Hotel.
“It’s a special project because I was given the freedom to design the mural,” he said. The artist also revealed his admiration for Chou, crediting the singer-songwriter as a major inspiration for his artistic journey.
To bring the mural to life, Jagung is using 400 litres of illusion paints and 350 spray paints.
This marks a continuation of his artistic evolution, which began in 2015 with acrylic paints before transitioning to spray painting — a medium he first showcased on the streets of Sibu.
Despite his passion for art, Jagung shared the struggles of being a muralist in Sarawak, highlighting the financial challenges faced by local artists.
“I hope the state government can provide funding for mural artists. The art journey is very tough because we need money to survive,” he said.
Jagung’s ambitions extend beyond completing the mural. He hopes to one day invite Chou to view the finished artwork in person and even collaborate with the global icon on a future project.
The artist also hopes his work will inspire young muralists and aspiring painters to pursue their dreams despite the challenges.
“I want to show that with determination and passion, you can achieve something great,” he said.
The mural of Chou and Quinlivan is more than just an artwork; it represents a blend of local talent, cultural tribute, and international inspiration.
Once complete, it is poised to become a landmark in Miri, drawing visitors and shining a spotlight on Sarawak’s burgeoning art scene.
