KUCHING: The Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry strongly supports initiatives that bring youth closer to their roots.
“’Cultural Elevation’ reflects exactly what we want for Sarawak’s cultural landscape – a future where young people are not just consumers of culture but carriers of heritage and creators of identity,” said Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Deputy Minister, Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
His speech was read by Political Secretary to the Premier, Susan Clement Ingun, during the launching of the Cultural Elevation Showcase, organised by Kuching Performing Arts Association (KPAA) at the MBKS Auditorium here yesterday.
“The title ‘Cultural Elevation’ says it all, it is not just about performance; it is about raising culture, raising pride, and raising the next generation.
“What makes tonight even more special is knowing that these performances come after only two days of training. To stand on this stage and present classical ballet and Sarawak’s traditional Ethnic Ulu dance in such a short time takes courage, focus and a lot of heart.
“I commend all the dancers, and I applaud the vision behind this programme. It is a rare and powerful combination – technical dance education with deep cultural awareness,” he said.
Meanwhile, KPAA President, who is also Tyng Dance Academy founder, Chan Tyng Tyng, said Sunday was a very special night for all the dancers.
“This is the first time we are hosting a showcase immediately after a two-day intensive workshop. The dancers you see tonight have only had two days to train and learn both classical ballet and traditional Ethnic Ulu movements.
“Last year, we also conducted cultural workshops, but this is the first time we are able to present it to the public here at the MBKS Auditorium.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of all of you, especially our Sarawak community, who continues to believe in the power of culture and the next generation,” said Chan.
She also explained that the organisers named the initiative ‘Cultural Elevation’ as they believed dances were not just art forms but also served as bridges.
“A bridge between generations, between tradition and innovation, between heritage and hope. Through this programme, we are not only teaching steps.
“We are nurturing pride, resilience and cultural confidence in our youth so that they know where they come from and where they can go,” she said.
Also present at the event were Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, and National Culture and Arts Department (JKKN) Sarawak Director, Noor Seila Noor Sulaiman.
