KUCHING: The Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SIFMA) continues to elevate Sarawak’s position in the global creative landscape, reflecting the festival’s growing importance in cultural diplomacy and talent development.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said SIFMA has evolved into a significant platform that amplifies Sarawak’s creative identity.
He said the expansion of SIFMA to Bintulu and Miri demonstrates the government’s commitment to bringing quality artistic programmes to more communities statewide.
“With wider access to performances and masterclasses, more young talents are able to benefit from exposure to diverse art forms,” he said at SIFMA’s opening ceremony held at State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here yesterday (Dec 6).
Abdul Karim also noted the increasing international interest in SIFMA, with first-time participation from Vietnam and a growing number of foreign groups requesting to join.
He said that this reflects the festival’s rising reputation and the strengthening appeal of Sarawak’s creative ecosystem.
He emphasised the importance of Junior SIFMA as a developmental avenue for grooming emerging talents, offering structured training that prepares young Sarawakians for future opportunities on the world stage.
Abdul Karim urged performers and visitors to experience Sarawak’s cultural richness during their time in Kuching, expressing confidence that SIFMA 6.0 will offer a meaningful and memorable celebration of the arts.
