SIMUNJAN: A Volunteerism Programme and Public Art Projects were organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and the Sarawak state government yesterday in conjunction with the Tourism, Art and Culture Fiesta at Simunjan.

According to the Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, the Volunteerism Programme is a homegrown MOTAC event that has been implemented since September 2012. It takes place from September 23 to 25 at Padang Central Simunjan.

“It aims to raise awareness of and encourage community involvement in various tourism-based volunteer activities such as environmental cleanliness and greening activities, knowledge sharing and learning related to tourism and culture as well as promoting tourism destinations and the uniqueness of Malaysian culture,” she explained.

It is also said that MOTAC has rebranded the existing Volunteerism Programme by reorganising its main core and the New Logo of the Volunteerism Programme.

“Through the New Logo Creation Competition which started last year with a total of 182 entries received, 10 of the best entry logos were shortlisted for consideration,” it said in the press release.

Meanwhile, the Public Art Project organised by MOTAC through its agency, the National Visual Arts Development Board, has produced a total of three pieces of public art developed by local artists together with volunteers.

It involves participation among school students under the supervision of the Sarawak Education Department and among the new public artworks that will be based in Padang Central are hanging of umbrellas of three colours representing the Sarawak flags, public sculpture of a lobster using recycled materials and used metals, and also a three-dimensional drawing of a boiler.

“I am confident that these three New Public Art Projects will give a new look and added value to Simunjan District to be highlighted as a domestic tourism destination rich in its own art, culture and traditional values,

“The production of the three Public Art Projects involving the participation of volunteers among school students will give them experience and initial exposure related to the elements of art and culture.

“I see that this area will become an instagrammable spot for the local community and those who come from outside,” Nancy added.

It is said that the Simunjan Tourism, Art and Culture Fiesta, the Citrawarna Arts and Culture Simunjan Festival programme was also held around Simunjan town.

The programme organised by the Simunjan Children’s Welfare Association (PERKAJAS) and the Simunjan District Office presented a variety of interesting activities throughout the three-day period.