KUCHING: Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, including the diverse dances and traditions of its 34 ethnic groups, is set to be showcased at next year’s Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF).
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this initiative aligns with the vision of Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar to document and promote these traditions on the international stage.
“As such, I have directed the Sarawak Arts Council (MSS), which falls under my jurisdiction, to ensure that every ethnic group’s culture and traditional dances are showcased in events like the RWMF.
“These heritage should be safeguarded as part of every Sarawakian’s identity. Hopefully, next year, we will begin to fulfil Tun’s (Wan Junaidi) vision,” he said at the opening of the 2024 Gendang Sarawak Festival held at Kuching Waterfront on Friday night (Nov 1).
The festival was earlier officiated by Wan Junaidi.
Also in attendance were Wan Junaidi’s wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, and Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture deputy secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot.
According to Abdul Karim, the annual RWMF, which celebrated its 26th anniversary this year, has grown substantially since it began 26 years ago.
“In our first year, we only had about 300 visitors. Today, we welcome nearly 30,000 tourists each year. This festival has potential to elevate our cultures onto the international stage,” he added.
On the Gendang Sarawak Festival, which saw participation from Brunei and regions across Sarawak, he highlighted its economic potential which could benefit artists and businesses around Kuching.
“Events like these drive a significant economic impact on small businesses, larger merchants, various business premises, and the hotel industry, all of which benefit from increased revenue potential. This, in turn, contributes to the state’s income through cultural tourism.
“Through these impactful events, Sarawak has also set a target of attracting four million tourists, which we are on track to achieve this month,” he said.
