KUCHING: The Sarawak State Symphony Orchestra (SONS) marked its 35th anniversary with a grand concert held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex on Monday night (Oct 9).
The concert, jointly organised by SONS and the Sarawak Arts Council(MSS), brought together conductors, singers, musicians, choirs, and professional dancers from across the state.
The event was attended by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who commended the performers for their remarkable talents.
“The objective of organising this concert is to celebrate the 35th anniversary of SONS, introduce SONS and MSS to the public, appreciate the contributions of SONS musicians over the years, provide entertainment to the audience, attract the participation of musicians and visitors of various age groups, and promote music tourism in Sarawak,” he said in his speech.
“MSS hopes that programmes and activities like this can enhance the involvement and participation of young artists in performing arts activities while showcasing local programmes, especially those of the Sarawak State Symphony Orchestra, as a means to encourage the development of the creative and performing arts industry in Sarawak.”
He expressed confidence in SONS’ potential to make a significant impact in the music industry, citing the growing number of talented Sarawakians eager to gain recognition both locally and internationally.
During the celebration, SONS recognised conductors who had dedicated 30 years of service to the orchestra, including Datuk Marcus Leong, Shafiee Obe Hairunie, Dr Geraldine Law-Lee, and Yap Chiew Phin. Additionally, three musicians—Lai Moo Na, Jong Thien Kai and Stephen Jeremiah Adam—were also honoured.
The event also featured performances by popular local artists like Bob Yusof, Ng Chien Chien and Mark Cassidy.
Also present were State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, the ministry’s deputies Datuk Snowdan Lawan and Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy State Secretary Datuk Hii Chang Kee, and the ministry’s permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini.
