KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) is prepared to set up an entity to look after the welfare of artistes, especially those in the performing arts sector.
Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said a proper mechanism is needed to ensure those in the field of arts are highly appreciated and their well-being is taken care of.
“From what I can see, the well-being of veteran singers and actors appear to be not well-taken care of as they find themselves confined to hospital beds or residing in low-cost housing.
“Sometimes, I question what has happened to them. What happened to the royalties? What happened to the organisations that should be taking care of these artistes when they are at the peak of their careers? That’s why there needs to be a re-evaluation (proper method of disbursement of royalties),” he told the press after officiating at the Sarawak Arts Council Dialogue programme held at the Borneo Cultures Museum auditorium here, today.
Also present were MTCP deputy minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, MTCP permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini, Sarawak Arts Council chief executive officer Dayang Mariana Bolhassan and Datuk Dr Adi Badiozaman Tuah, the moderator of the dialogue.
The entity, he said, might not be able to cater for all artistes in Malaysia, but at the very least, prioritising the artistes from Sarawak.
“If we can establish specific organisations dedicated to channelling grants and contributions, it would enable continuous development throughout the years to safeguard the well-being of these artistes.
“Furthermore, if we could formulate a body similar to what exists in Peninsular Malaysia, where those involved in the field of singing, royalties and intellectual property rights are required to pay, it would be beneficial,” he said.
He added that the entity must also meet its purpose where the trustee must consists of responsible individuals who can empathise with the feelings of artistes.
He said the dialogue served as a platform to gather feedback from the industry to further improve the arts community.
In regards to the performing arts centre project, Abdul Karim said the renovation process at the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex in Petra Jaya is running well despite facing several setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
