KAPIT: Calls to stop politicising the Rain Rave Water Music Festival have gained support from local leaders, citing its role in promoting tourism and supporting the creative industry.
Earlier, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing had called on parties not to politicise the Rain Rave Water Music Festival, stressing that such events are intended to promote tourism, support the creative industry and stimulate local economic activity.
His remarks came amid public debate over the programme, including concerns related to suitability and community sensitivities, with the ministry maintaining that tourism initiatives should be approached in a balanced and constructive manner.
Kapit District Council (KDC) chairman Andy Lawrence expressed support for the minister’s position, noting that programmes of this nature benefit local communities and industry players.
“Programmes of this nature are intended to stimulate tourism activity, support the creative industry, and generate economic opportunities for local communities, particularly those involved in hospitality, transport, and small businesses,” he said in a statement today (May 2).
He added that turning such initiatives into political issues does not benefit the tourism sector, the public, or the country’s broader development efforts.
At the same time, he stressed the importance of addressing community concerns through appropriate engagement.
“Public sentiment and cultural sensitivities must be acknowledged and respected. Concerns raised by communities should be addressed through constructive engagement and proper consultation rather than being amplified unnecessarily in ways that may create misunderstanding or division,” he said.
Lawrence also suggested that Sarawak could be considered as an alternative venue if the event continues to face resistance elsewhere.
“If the event continues to face resistance in its current location, I would like to propose a practical alternative — to consider hosting it in Sarawak,” he said.
He added that Sarawak has the space, experience and institutional capability to organise large-scale events in a controlled and culturally respectful environment.
“Relocating the programme to Sarawak would ensure the objective of promoting tourism and supporting the creative sector can continue without unnecessary controversy, while also strengthening the state’s role as a regional destination for major cultural and entertainment events,” he said.
