By Christine T
KUCHING, Oct 7: Critics questioning the cultural authenticity of the backdrop at Kuching International Airport (KIA) have been urged to take a broader view of art, with Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah stressing that the design was intended to be contemporary while incorporating elements of Malaysian and Sarawakian artistic heritage.
He said the motif should not be judged solely against traditional Sarawak designs such as “pua kumbu”, as contemporary artwork could draw from different artistic influences while still reflecting local culture.
“Art is universal. It is difficult for us to say, ‘This is Indonesian art, this is Peninsular Malaysian art’… don’t be too narrow-minded. Look at it from the bigger picture,” he told reporters after officiating the Sarawak Women of Tomorrow (SWOT) 2026 at Damai Lagoon Resort, Santubong, today.
