KUCHING: The fifth edition of Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SIFMA 5) showcased a captivating fusion of world-class music, dance, and fashion at the State Legislative Assembly building here last night (Dec 7).
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, graced this year’s SIFMA with their presence.
SIFMA chairperson Dr Geraldine Law-Lee in her opening speech highlighted the importance of unifying various art forms to empower the arts, culture, and tourism in Sarawak.
“We are seeking common ground where fashion and styling can blend and evolve harmoniously with music in this festival.
“This collaboration will be cultivated and applied to fashion, couture, artistic handicrafts, jewelry-making, and performances, which form the heartbeat of SIFMA.
“This effort aims to establish SIFMA as a platform for the symbiotic integration of all artistic disciplines,” she said.
SIFMA 2024 featured performances by international artistes such as pianists Gilbert De Greeve and Dr Poom Prommachart, as well as the dance groups Halili-Cruz Dance Company from the Philippines and KESUMA from Universiti Malaya.
Also stealing the spotlight were haute couture collections by Sarawak’s renowned designer, Datuk Raymond Jolly, and prominent menswear designer Bon Zainul Harun.
Over 100 artistes from both local and international backgrounds participated in the fifth edition of the festival, solidifying its reputation as a premier platform to celebrate artistic creativity and talent.
Also present were Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and his deputy Datuk Snowdan Lawan, and permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini.
