KUCHING: The launch of ArtPop 2025 is being hailed as a significant step in promoting Sarawak as a progressive and inclusive state through creativity, culture and community engagement.
Officiating the opening at the Concourse Area, Tropics City yesterday, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian described ArtPop as more than just an art exhibition.
He said it reflects Sarawak’s transformation into a modern and forward-looking state that values the integration of art, entrepreneurship and community spirit.
“This is not just a ‘pop-up art’ event. It is a symbol of community development based on art, culture and entrepreneurship which are important in building our state,” he said.
Dr Sim emphasised that the initiative demonstrates how the state’s development is not only centred on physical and economic progress but also includes space for creative expression and shared experiences.
He noted that ArtPop 2025 features more than 50 participants, including artists, creative entrepreneurs, local food vendors and handicraft makers.
The four-day event also incorporates a variety of activities such as pet shows, supercar exhibitions, cultural performances and interactive creative workshops, reflecting the vibrant and evolving spirit of Sarawak’s urban landscape.
“This event is not only lively, but also reflects the soul of the modern city that we have created together, lively with art, culture and community interaction,” he added.
Highlighting Sarawak’s evolution over the past decade, Dr Sim said ArtPop is a symbol of how far the state has come.
“Sarawak 2025 is no longer Sarawak 2015. Some people used to think that we only lived in tree houses. Today, we have modern museums, contemporary art and a rapidly growing creative community,” he said.
This success does not belong to individuals alone, but is the result of the collective efforts of Sarawakians who played their respective roles brilliantly.
ArtPop is fully managed by SEN’s Modern Art Museum and is described as a creative platform that connects local talents with the public in an interactive and educational environment.
Also present at the event were Batu Kitang Assemblyman, Datuk Lo Khere Chiang; SEN’s Modern Art Museum Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and ArtPop 2025 CEO, Nana Jap Li Ping; Chief Operating Officer, Sim Eng Hee; Chief Financial Officer,Wendy Wong Jean Wen; and Monsuta Bites Founder, Enes Tan Siew Fei.
