Sarawak's Performing Arts Centre on track for completion by late 2026, early 2027
KUCHING (June 16): The construction of Sarawak's Performing Arts Centre is on track for completion by late 2026 or early 2027, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
He said the RM300 million landmark, once completed, would be one of the most ambitious cultural infrastructure projects in Malaysia, which would serve as a dedicated space for artistes, musicians and performers to grow and showcase their talents.
'This will be our very own centre for artistic excellence — it will be Sarawak's investment in talent, tourism and the future of performing arts,' he said during the closing ceremony of the Sarawak International Choral Festival and Symposium (SICFest and SICSym) held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here yesterday.
He said the performing arts centre would strengthen Sarawak's position as a regional hub for cultural tourism, which is an ambition already being realised through internationally recognised events such as SICFest and SICSym.
'Over the past few days, Kuching has come alive with the sound of music, joyful harmonies, vibrant energy and heartfelt performances that have touched all of us. The festival's embodiment of the state's artistic spirit should also be commended,' he said.
Following that, he thus expressed gratitude to organisers, along with the organising committee of the Kuching Choral Society, for delivering a high-calibre international event which saw participating choirs and adjudicators hailing from countries including Austria, Germany, Singapore, Indonesia, and across Malaysia.
Snowdan also highlighted the role of such events in nurturing the next generation of musicians.
'Seeing children and youth on stage is a reminder why we must continue investing in performing arts. I believe they are the future of global understanding and unity.
'Let us continue to bring Sarawak to the world, and the world to Sarawak,' he said.
The SICFest and SICSym is a premier international event in Kuching that brings together choirs, vocal educators, and music enthusiasts from around the world.
Organised by the Kuching Choral Society with support from the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, the event features both a vibrant choral festival and an educational symposium.
Participants engaged in performances, competitions, master classes, and workshops led by renowned international adjudicators and conductors.
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