The Sarawak government has reaffirmed its commitment to redevelop the former State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building into a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre (PAC), in a move aimed at positioning the state as a regional hub for creative arts.
State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the project reflects Sarawak’s ambition to strengthen its creative ecosystem while nurturing local talent.
“The centre will provide dedicated facilities to support and stimulate the growth of our creative industries. This is why we place strong emphasis on developing young talents, who will eventually form the pool of performers for the PAC,” he said when officiating the Sarawak State Symphony Orchestra (SONS) Junior Musical Showcase at The Spring Shopping Mall.
Snowdan added that the arts centre will be designed by an internationally experienced consultant involved in the development of renowned opera houses, helping to elevate Sarawak’s standing on the global arts stage.
“I was informed that the centre will surpass Istana Budaya in Kuala Lumpur in terms of technology and design. The consultant has worked on iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Sydney Opera House,” he said.
He noted that once completed, the PAC will provide a platform for local talents while enabling Sarawak to host international and world-class performances.
Snowdan also highlighted the rebranding of the State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts in 2022 under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, emphasising the importance of tangible tourism products.
“Tourism without products is meaningless. Events like today’s showcase reflect our commitment to promoting arts and culture while demonstrating Sarawak’s harmony and unity, especially during the Christmas season,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) acting chief executive officer Awang Ikman Awang Sepian said the showcase featured 76 junior performers from SONS, including musicians, conductors, singers, dancers and choir members.
“These young performers deserve opportunities to showcase their talents, as they represent the outcomes of MSS’s arts development programmes,” he said.
He added that MSS will continue to enhance its Arts Guidance Class syllabus and collaborate with institutions such as Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), the National Department for Culture and Arts, and the Sarawak Arts School, while also seeking expertise beyond the state.
The orchestral showcase, organised by MSS, attracted a large public audience. Also present was Deputy Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Julin Alen.
