SSSS programme can attract tourists: Liew
Published on: Monday, March 25, 2019
By: Ricardo Unto
KOTA KINABALU: The newly-launched “Singgah Sini, Santai Seni” (SSSS) programme can attract more tourists to visit Laman Seni, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
Liew, who is also Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, said tourists can experience local art and cultural activities in the fortnightly programme.
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“Just as the name implies, the programme showcases a more laid-back concept and is open to the public,” she said in a speech read by her Assistant Minister Assaffal Alian, during the programme’s launching ceremony, at Laman Seni, near Wisma Budaya, here, Saturday.
“The programme put much emphasis on the interaction between art enthusiasts and the public to bring them closer as well as to flourish the appreciation of arts and culture in the State.
“It is also an avenue for local cultural enthusiasts to fully utilise the performance stage at the venue which has not been used for a long time.”
The programme, she said, also aimed to turn Wisma Budaya’s compound as a one-stop centre for art and cultural activities.
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“It is also one of the State Government’s efforts to make full use of Laman Seni’s strategic location to attract tourists, especially those who are staying in the nearby hotels,” she said.
She also hoped the offerings will be presented according to the local ethnic celebrations.
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“For example, throughout May which is the month where we celebrate Kaamatan Festival, the programme can showcase cultural references to the Kadazandusun and Murut ethnic groups.
“Apart from relaxing at the venue, visitors can also appreciate Sabah’s rich cultural diversity.”
Noting that local art enthusiasts had frequently lamented on the lack of platform for them to present their works, Liew said, the SSSS programme is also open to them.
“All art and cultural enthusiasts in Sabah are welcomed to be involved in this programme. Through this programme, we hope to produce or unearth young talents as well, apart from promoting cultural tourism,” she said.
To this end, she said, the Ministry will always support any art or cultural activities to uplift its status in the State.
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SSSS was mooted by Sabah Cultural Board Chairman Ismaily Bungsu and supported by several other agencies, non-governmental organisations, higher learning institutions as well as the private sector.
Apart from stage performances, there were also booths for vendors to sell their products, ranging from crafts to food items.