KUCHING: The 'Anugerah Seni Sarawak' (ASS) 2025 has been described as more than just a recognition platform, but a cultural milestone aimed at strengthening identity, fostering appreciation for heritage and inspiring Sarawak’s younger generation to remain engaged in the arts.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the awards underline the importance of arts and culture in shaping a progressive and creative society.
“Anugerah Seni Sarawak is not only about celebrating talent, but also about cultivating love for our heritage and driving the state’s creative sector to greater heights,” he said during the press conference at Baitulmakmur II on Thursday.
Scheduled to be held on 22 October at the Banquet Hall of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex, the awards night will feature artistic performances and tributes to the state’s cultural heritage.
A total of 92 nominations were received this year across multiple categories, ranging from media supporters and agencies to theatre, music, dance and lifetime achievement, with assessments carried out by a professional jury panel.
Among the key categories are 'Tokoh Seni Sarawak', Arts Media Supporter, Government and Corporate Agency Supporter, Non-Government Body Supporter, Kenyalang Opera for theatre, 'Sri Ritma Kenyalang' for music, 'Kesuma Kenyalang' for dance and the Sarawak Lifetime Arts Achievement Award.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim also extended his appreciation to government and private sponsors for their support in making ASS 2025 possible.
“On behalf of the State Government, I would like to thank all our partners and sponsors whose commitment reflects a shared vision in uplifting Sarawak’s arts and creative industries,” he said.
Present at the media conference were Deputy Director General of the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Mohd Radzi Omar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datu Sherina Hussaini and sponsors of the 'Anugerah Seni Sarawak'. -UKASnews
