KUCHING: Sarawak will continue organising tourism and cultural events on a full scale despite calls by the federal government for cost-saving measures.
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that festivals, such as music, food, and cultural events, must be organised with full commitment to achieve their purpose of promoting local culture and attracting public participation.
“When we organise events, we must do it wholeheartedly. The purpose of festivals, such as music, food, and cultural events, is for the public to experience them directly.
“If it is a food and cultural festival, we want people to try our food and see the culture being presented. If it is a music event like the Rainforest World Music Festival, we want the best performances to be showcased,” he said during a press conference on the Great British Circus performance here.
He said Sarawak’s approach differs from the federal government’s call for cost-saving measures, which mainly targets festive open house celebrations that can still be organised in a more modest manner.
Abdul Karim added that organisers could reduce the amount of food served at open house events as a practical way to cut costs.
However, he said the state is expected not to organise a state-level Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house this year.
“I understand there may not be a state government-level Aidilfitri open house this year. However, ministries and politicians may still organise their own open houses, whether privately or through their ministries,” he said.
Abdul Karim also revealed that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will not host an Aidilfitri open house this year as he is still observing the mourning period following the passing of his wife less than a year ago.
He said the decision had been made earlier, even before the federal government announced cost-saving measures.
Meanwhile, Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, is expected to host an Aidilfitri open house, although the venue has yet to be confirmed.
“I understand it may be held at the Astana, but we will leave it to the Astana authorities to announce further details, including the date and time,” he said.
Abdul Karim added that he and several other ministers are likely to organise their own Hari Raya open houses, with details to be announced through their respective ministries.
On March 11, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that ministries, agencies and government-linked companies would not hold Aidilfitri open house events this year as part of cost-saving measures amid global economic uncertainty.
Abdul Karim said Aidilfitri open houses remain an important platform for celebrating the festive season and strengthening unity in Sarawak’s multicultural society.
“After a month of fasting, it is appropriate for us to celebrate Aidilfitri and share that joy with people of all races in Sarawak,” he said.
