KUCHING: The Sabah government has been urged to emulate Sarawak government’s lead where the state has autonomy in organising international events.
Tamparuli chief of StarSabah Wiramuda, Jess Joel Moriga suggested rebranding the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment to the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Creative Industries and Performing Arts.
Joel was reported as saying that the inspiration for this change was based on a similar move in Sarawak in 2021, which enabled the state to improve its position in tourism and the creative industry.
He said in 2021, Sarawak changed the name and function of its Ministry to focus on tourism, creative industries and performing arts. The decision has since allowed the state to organise international-class concerts without requiring permission from the federal government.
“We can then organise and issue permits or licences for global concerts and international-class performances without having to go through the federal government,” he was quoted as saying.
He also said the initiative could also contribute to the development of the creative and entertainment industries in Sabah.
“It has been my dream to see the music scene in Sabah develop into an industry. I believe this will help the local artistic talents to further strengthen their economy,” he said.
Joel pointed out that the initiative has the potential to attract more tourists to Sabah and they can enjoy a richer experience with a focus on performing arts, music, handicrafts, visual arts and cultural performances.
