SIBU: A sum of RM2.58 million from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts has gone towards funding 54 programmes and activities up to Oct 18 this year.
According to Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, last year the ministry supported 80 programmes and activities under the same Facilitation Fund for Heritage, Arts and Culture, amounting to RM4.65 million.
“These figures were obtained from the ministry, which recently updated me. Therefore, I urge all artists, creators, cultural associations, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) registered under the Registrar of Societies (ROS) to apply for this fund,” he said.
He was officiating at the ‘Mysterious Heart of Sarawak – Discovery Kajang Culture’ Photography Exhibition at a hotel here Saturday (Nov 11).
Chieng also said that a total of RM10 million was allocated for the Facilitation Fund last year with the aim of stimulating the recovery of the heritage, arts, and cultural sectors in Sarawak from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Through this fund,” he explained, “registered associations, artists, and creators can organise workshops, classes, courses, forums, performances, competitions, and more to contribute to the development of arts, crafts, and heritage in Sarawak.”
“I hope all of you will take this opportunity to apply for this fund. In the tourism industry, arts, and culture are important to attract domestic and international investments to the state, especially from the creative industry.
“Therefore, creative professionals, artists, creators, and cultural associations play a crucial role in promoting and maintaining aspects of this creative industry by creating and showcasing their works, organising exhibitions and events, and participating in education and outreach programmes,” he stressed.
On the exhibition, Chieng said that photographers use photos to record; videographers use videos to showcase the beauty of Sarawak, and bloggers use words to record what they see in Sarawak.
“This is the starting point for advocating exploration. From what I see, everyone has worked hard to promote Sarawak to the entire UK and even to the world.
“Through collaborations like this, we enable more people to know and appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of Sarawak.
“It is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words. Photography is a powerful means of communication that offers a new perspective for learning and seeing the world,” he added.
Also present was a representative from the Ministry Melina Manan, representative of Dudong Assemblyman councillor Joshua Ting and President of Sibu Photographers Association (SPA) Edwin Ong.
