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The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Brunei, Sarawak artists unite in cultural exchange
KUCHING: Artists from Brunei and Sarawak gathered for a cultural exchange, focussing on building stronger ties through visual art, poetry and creative workshops as part of the 'Neighbours in Heart, Friendship in Art' initiative, which concluded at the Borneo Cultures Museum, Sarawak on Thursday (June 29). Bruneian artist Wahab Hassan engaged 20 participants in a hands-on exploration of visual techniques through his painting workshop. The participants learned the concept of development, colour strategies and the use of palette knives for texture and fine detail, offering a valuable space for skills-sharing and artistic mentorship. Meanwhile, Bruneian poets Malek Metarsat and Adi Zain, and Sarawak's Angelina Bong, brought the emotional textures of Borneo's stories to life through a poetry session, reinforcing how language, like visual art, can transcend borders and deepen cultural empathy. The programme saw a public art talk, 'Lines of Growth: An Artist's Evolution', where panellists from both Brunei and Sarawak explored the personal and collective journeys of artistic practice. The talk featured Sebastian Jong, Angelina Bong, and Fook Liew from Sarawak, alongside Datuk Haini Hashim, Awang Sitai and Nicky Lapira, moderated by Osveanne Osman from Brunei. Sarawak's Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, and Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who officiated the programme launch, described the exchange as 'a cultural bridge that allows us to know our neighbours better', reflecting on Brunei's strong monthly visitor numbers and the potential for extending ties to Kalimantan Barat. The minister also emphasised the growing importance of integrating art and culture into tourism strategies, naming ongoing efforts such as the Borneo Games and artist-led initiatives as instrumental in shaping regional narratives. President of the Sarawak Artists Society Sebastian Jong noted that the event has been an enriching platform that fosters mutual appreciation and opens doors for deeper artistic exchange. Vice President of Brunei Art Forum Osman Muhammad shared similar sentiments, noting that the cultural exchange exceeded expectations, not only in turnout but in the substance of dialogue and the relationships formed between artistic communities. Bruneian artist Datuk Haini Hashim reflected on the broader meaning of the event. 'This was not just an exhibition – it was a reminder of how art connects people. It's through exchanges like this that we keep our traditions alive, adapt them and pass them on with renewed purpose,' he said. Sarawak-based artist Angelina Bong, on the other hand, added that to come together over shared passions, stories and visions has been truly powerful and she left feeling inspired and more connected. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak Datuk Sebastian Ting and Consul General of Brunei in Sarawak Sheikh Datuk Mahadanni were also present. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
Borneo Post
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Joint exhibition at Kuching's Borneo Cultures Museum to feature Brunei, Sarawak artists
The exhibition at the Borneo Cultures Museum will feature 99 paintings. — Bernama photo KUCHING (June 17): The Brunei-Sarawak Joint Art Exhibition on June 20-26 will bring together artists from Brunei Darussalam and Sarawak in a collaborative celebration of the beauty and heritage of Borneo. Themed 'Neighbours in Heart, Friendship in Art', it will involve 64 artists, 18 of whom are from Brunei. Featuring 99 paintings, the exhibition at the Borneo Cultures Museum here will showcase a rich tapestry of identity, tradition, and contemporary expression through visual art. 'The beauty of the land and its people, the lush flora and fauna, the vibrant culture and enduring heritage, and the evocative sounds and atmosphere of the region – all are captured in these artistic reflections of the land's essence. 'Held in the beautiful setting of Kuching, Sarawak, the exhibition is inspired by the reflections of the rivers, the boats that glide across their surfaces, the scattered buildings along the banks, and the forests, hills, and mountains that shape the landscape. These elements evoke the historical spirit of the land – the glory of its past,' said a press release from the organisers. The press release said the bustling energy of modern Kuching will also offer a reflection of contemporary Sarawak, showcasing how tradition and progress coexist. The landmark exhibition is organised by the Sarawak Artists Society with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Brunei Darussalam; Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Brunei (Statob); and Sarawak Museum Department. Complementing the exhibition are vibrant, community-driven programmes, including art talks and live demonstrations. Separately, organisers said the cross-border initiative lays a meaningful foundation for the future Sarawak State Art Gallery — a proposed cultural institution aimed at preserving, developing, and promoting the state's visual arts. As Sarawak's visual arts sector continues to gain national and international momentum, the statement said the need for a permanent, dedicated art space is increasingly clear. The statement said a State Art Gallery would serve as an inclusive hub for exhibitions, education, research, and creative development. 'It would support local artists, nurture talent, document cultural narratives, and expand public engagement with the arts. 'Building on the momentum of 'Neighbours in Heart, Friendship in Art', this proposed institution reflects a long-term investment in cultural infrastructure and creative economy development,' added the statement.
