KUCHING: The selection of Kuching as the host city for the 2025 International Choir Competition, Forum, and Workshop is estimated to bolster Sarawak’s economy by RM9.8 million.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan said, said the event—organised by INTERKULTUR—will bring direct expenditures of around RM5.3 million. This includes tax revenues amounting to RM590,000 and paving the way for 781 new job openings.
“The main message of the event is ‘singing together brings nations together.’ We expect around 1,000 attendees, including 800 international choral enthusiasts. Since its founding in 1988, INTERKULTUR has connected over 10,000 choirs and involved 450,000 singers worldwide,” said Snowdan during a press conference at Mulu Room, Level 17, Baitulmakmur 2 yesterday.
Sarawak is no stranger to hosting globally-acclaimed music events. The state has previously organised festivals like the Rainforest World Music Festival and the Borneo Music Festival in 2022.
“Music is the heartbeat of our gatherings here in Sarawak, be it traditional, ethnic, or pop. We hope INTERKULTUR and its attendees will immerse themselves in our local melodies, join forces with our musicians, and enrich our creative spirit,” he said.
Meanwhile, INTERKULTUR representative Susanna Saw said, “It’s an enriching experience to introduce the world to Kuching. This provides our local students and music aficionados a golden chance to delve deeper into global music.”
Saw further added that visitors will enjoy top-notch performances, cultural exchanges, musical collaborations, and form lasting friendships.
“Sarawak boasts a rich musical legacy, and we’re eager to showcase it globally. It’s crucial that we continue to nurture and elevate the standards of our local musicians, educators, and students,” she added.
