KUCHING: Sarawak’s rapid development in technology and the digital economy must be matched by strong cultural values and identity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said for Sarawak to become a developed, high-income and competitive region by 2030, its people must uphold strong values while advancing technologically.
“Progress must move hand in hand with the shaping of character and identity.
“Hence, literature, art and cultures play important roles in Sarawak development agenda to help Sarawakians understand who they are and where they come from,” he said.
He said this in a text speech read out by Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah during the Dinner and Prize Presentation Ceremony for the 40th National-Level Independence Poetry Declamation Competition (SDPK) 2026 here last night (Aug 15).
He said the state’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) placed emphasis not only on economic growth but also on education and human capital, as Sarawak works towards becoming a developed, high-income region by 2030.
Abang Johari also called on the literary community to embrace digital platforms and artificial intelligence to bring poetry to younger audiences through short films, animation and music.
“Poetry is not merely an art of language — poetry is part of the voice and soul of a nation,” he said, referring to this year’s anthology theme, ‘Dignity and Sovereignty of the Nation’.
Sarawak’s Khalid Husseine Tuah was crowned champion among 16 other participants, bringing home prize money of RM5,000, SDPK challenge trophy of the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, SDPK champion trophy, accompanying gifts and a certificate of appreciation.
