Sarawak sets global stage for music, performing arts with sustainable growth vision

Borneo Post

18-06-2025

Abdul Karim (third left) and other officials give a thumbs-up during the RAYS 2025. – Photo by Matthew Umpang
KUCHING (June 18): Sarawak is steadily building momentum toward becoming a competitive international destination for music and performance-based events, driven by strong government support, sustainable practices and upcoming infrastructure development, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He noted that the state's commitment to the performing arts is evident in the continued success of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), which enters its 28th edition this weekend.
'Across Asean, music festivals are mushrooming, and Sarawak is no exception. We hosted Boney M in January and will be welcoming Air Supply soon. The RWMF also remains a major highlight on our events calendar,' he told reporters after officiating the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2025 at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here today.
Abdul Karim also pointed out that what sets Sarawak apart is its commitment to environmental responsibility in organising such events despite seeing an increase in music events since the Covid-19 pandemic, in tandem with similar growth across the region.
He said a portion of RWMF ticket sales goes towards forest replanting efforts and the event prohibits the sale of drinks in plastic bottles, as patrons are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers.
'We want festival goers to not only enjoy the music, but also understand their responsibility towards the environment. This sustainability-first approach is also applied to other events organised through the Sarawak Tourism Board and Business Events Sarawak.'
Looking ahead, Abdul Karim noted that Sarawak aspires to host mega concerts, but current infrastructure presents some challenges.
He added that the state's plan to launch its own airline by the end of next year would further improve connectivity, opening new possibilities for bringing in international performers and attracting regional audiences.
'Our stadium can cater for up to 30,000 people, while our indoor venues can only hold 4,000 to 5,000. We are also constructing a second Borneo Convention Centre, which will have a 10,000-capacity hall and is expected to be ready in two years.
'With better flight access, we can plan targeted events. For instance, if a concert features Korean artistes, we can focus on bringing in fans from South Korea,' he said.
Apart from that, Abdul Karim said the state government also ensures that events cater to a wide demographic, with concerts designed for both younger and older audiences, including retro acts popular among those in their 40s and 50s.
He acknowledged the high costs involved in staging large-scale performances, noting that decisions must strike a balance between ambition and financial viability.
'We are building capacity, but we must also be mindful of sustainability not only environmentally, but economically.'
Abdul Karim said Sarawak's development of its performing arts scene aligns with its Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to make the state a high-income economy through sustainable development.
He pointed to ongoing efforts in renewable energy, hydrogen-powered public transport, and green building designs, such as the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre, as examples of Sarawak's long-term commitment.
'With the right infrastructure, connectivity and values, Sarawak is well positioned to elevate its performing arts sector to the global stage,' he added.
Also present at the press conference were State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts deputy ministers Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan; and State Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development deputy ministers Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat and Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu.