KUCHING: The Sarawak Government has reminded all entertainment event organisers to ensure that programme content aligns with local cultural sensitivities and customs, particularly for large-scale events involving the general public.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the government does not oppose the organisation of entertainment events or celebrations.
However, he stressed that the content must be appropriate and should not cause unease among the community.
“If a countdown celebration is to be held, there is no issue. Singing performances are also not a problem. But do not tarnish such celebrations with unhealthy practices or elements that are incompatible with the values of our society,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after the closing ceremony of the Jabat Sejagat Festival 2025 at the Sarawak Sport Village (SSV) here on Sunday.
According to Dato Sri Abdul Karim, an entertainment event held in Miri that recently went viral on social media had sparked public concern and drew objections from several non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
He added that although the event did not involve any allocation or support from his ministry, the organiser remained responsible for ensuring that the programme content complied with the law and respected cultural and religious sensitivities.
“Organisers cannot assume that without government assistance they are free to bring in any form of performance. The government still has authority because we have laws,” he explained.
He also informed that the Miri City Council had summoned the organiser for discussions, and elements of the performance deemed excessive were understood to have been withdrawn.
At the same time, he emphasised that local authorities, the police and relevant agencies must carefully scrutinise the content of every event before approving permits, in order to prevent issues that could disrupt social harmony.
He expressed hope that the matter would serve as a reminder to all organisers to be more responsible and sensitive when planning events, in order to preserve harmony and uphold the identity of Sarawak’s multi-racial and multi-religious society. -