KOTA SAMARAHAN – A university exhibition has successfully demonstrated the evolving relationship between traditional artistry and cutting-edge digital technology. Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) reinforced its role as a centre for creative innovation with the launch of its eCITRA 2025 showcase.
The event, formally known as the Exhibition of Creativity, Innovation, Technology and Research, was held at the Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts (FSGK) Gallery. It was officiated by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit.
In his address, Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata praised the faculty for its sustained dedication to advancing interdisciplinary creativity. He highlighted how the event merges artistic practice with technological exploration and academic research.
He noted that the biennial exhibition serves a purpose far greater than simply displaying artistic works. It also signifies the institution’s preparedness to cultivate a new cohort of innovators who are equipped to navigate fast-changing digital landscapes.
“eCITRA embodies UNIMAS’ spirit of crossing traditional boundaries and fostering creative thinking that is sustainable and inclusive,” he stated during the opening ceremony.
This year’s installment was structured around the theme “Duality: Between Tactile & Virtual”. It presented over 30 academic works produced by FSGK lecturers, spanning a diverse range of formats from conventional paintings and sculptures to complex mixed-media installations.
A significant portion of the exhibit was dedicated to digital interfaces and immersive projects. These utilised emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), showcasing the faculty’s forward-looking approach.
The exhibition received substantial industry endorsement, with PETRONAS acting as the main sponsor. This partnership indicates growing corporate support for initiatives that nurture creative and technological talent within Sarawak.
Dr Louis Ringah Kanyan, Dean of FSGK, explained that eCITRA functions as a crucial platform connecting artistic expression with research breakthroughs. He added that it also helps elevate the unique artistic identity of Borneo to an international audience.
The faculty has recorded several notable accomplishments throughout 2025. These include the SULAM Kampung Peros project, which gained recognition under the Sarawak Delta Geopark initiative.
Furthermore, faculty projects such as CABI Brace, Living XR Heritage, and the Tradigital AR Orang Ulu Collection secured gold and silver awards at the recent Borneo InTEX 2025 competition.
The Vice-Chancellor remarked that these achievements reflect the faculty’s commitment to artistic excellence and meaningful community engagement. He stressed that eCITRA stimulates essential dialogue, not only between tradition and technology but also between academia and the wider society.
The event is anticipated to further enhance collaborations between the creative industries and emerging technological fields. This aligns with the national Malaysia MADANI framework, which emphasises compassionate and inclusive growth.
The ceremony was also attended by PETRONAS Sarawak General Manager, Norazibah M. Rabu, and representatives from the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching.
