16-07-2025
Sarawak Arts Council: AI a tool to enhance, not replace, human creativity
Awang Ikman speaks during the opening of the dialogue.
MIRI (July 16): Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept but has become an integral part of daily work and the creative industries, said Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) acting chief executive officer, Awang Ikman Awang Sepian.
He pointed out that AI, which has existed since the 1990s, is now widely utilised to optimise repetitive tasks, analyse data, enhance productivity, and even create content such as music, writing and visual arts.
'AI can help artists and creative practitioners produce more innovative works and promote their art to wider audiences. It offers many benefits, from automating routine jobs to generating new creative content,' he said when officiating at the Seri Perdana Dialogue 2025: Preparing the Creative Industry to face the AI Technology Revolution, organised by MSS at a local leading hotel here yesterday.
The dialogue brought together representatives from various government agencies, festival and event organisers, associations, and art practitioners from across Sarawak and surrounding areas to discuss how AI can transform the local creative arts scene.
However, Awang Ikman also reminded participants that despite the convenience that AI offers in making tasks easier, one must not lose the original spirit and identity of art.
Previously, he said, MSS had organised workshops where students were encouraged to brainstorm and explore how AI can assist in promoting their artistic works, while learning about ethical and privacy challenges associated with the use of technology.
'The aim of this initiative is to equip the younger generation with new skills such as data analysis and AI engineering, preparing them for emerging career opportunities,' he said.
Looking ahead, he added that MSS plans to collaborate more closely with relevant agencies to strengthen community awareness and understanding of AI applications.
He also reminded the audience that AI should serve as a tool to support, not replace human creativity.
'AI can greatly assist and open new possibilities, but it should complement rather than replace human creativity, aligning with MSS' mission to advance local creative industries responsibly,' he concluded.
More than 200 participants were given exposure to the use of AI in creating artworks and digital innovations through presentations and forums. AI Awang Ikman Awang Sepian Sarawak Arts Council
