MIRI: Sarawak is increasingly positioning arts, culture and heritage tourism as strategic drivers of economic growth, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.
He said the Sarawak Arts, Crafts & Music Festival 2026, which is held at Permaisuri Imperial City Mall here from May 14 to 17, brings together artisans, musicians and performers from across the state in a celebration of Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity and creative talent.
Traditional music performances, colourful handicraft displays and cultural showcases transformed the mall concourse into a vibrant cultural hub as visitors gathered for the festival’s official launch.
Ting said festivals centred on arts and culture were becoming increasingly important in supporting Sarawak’s tourism industry while creating opportunities for local artisans and performers.
“Culture and heritage are not only part of our identity, they are also important economic assets for Sarawak,” he said when speaking during the opening ceremony of the Sarawak Arts, Crafts & Music Festival 2026 today.
He noted that Sarawak’s multicultural background remained one of its strongest tourism attractions, adding that events highlighting local traditions and creativity could help strengthen the state’s position as a leading cultural destination in the region.
According to him, the state government continues to encourage more initiatives that promote cultural tourism and the creative industry as sustainable sectors capable of generating business opportunities and community income.
The festival is organised by J.K Art & Culture Enterprise and SACHS Malaysia in collaboration with various partners.
Ting commended the organisers for their commitment to preserving and promoting Sarawak’s artistic and cultural heritage through community-based events.
He said such initiatives played an important role in ensuring traditional arts, crafts and music continued to thrive and remain relevant among younger generations.
The festival features live music performances, handicraft exhibitions, cultural demonstrations and interactive activities aimed at encouraging greater public participation in the creative arts sector.
Visitors have been invited to experience the festival and support local creative entrepreneurs throughout the four-day event, which ends on Sunday.
