KUCHING – Sarawak’s presence on the international cultural stage received a significant boost following the participation of renowned music educator and arts advocate Dr. Geraldine Law Lee at a major cultural concert in Chengdu, China.
Dr. Geraldine, who serves as Executive Director of IMH Music House and Adjunct Professor at Sunway University, represented Kuching and Sarawak at the prestigious event that brought together leading musicians, composers and conductors from China, Hong Kong and Singapore.
The concert served as a platform to strengthen cultural exchanges and foster closer ties between Malaysia and China through music, education and the arts. It also highlighted the growing role of Sarawak as a regional hub for cultural and creative development.
During her visit, Dr. Geraldine showcased Sarawak’s vibrant arts and cultural landscape to international audiences. She also promoted the upcoming Delphic International Convention and Games 2027, which is scheduled to be held in Kuching. Often referred to as the “Olympics of the Arts”, the international gathering is expected to attract artists, performers and cultural practitioners from around the world.
Apart from promoting Sarawak on the global stage, Dr. Geraldine conducted talent scouting activities and auditions for performing groups interested in participating in the Sarawak International Festival of Music and Arts (SIFMA). The effort is expected to strengthen international participation and create more opportunities for cultural collaboration.
One of the key outcomes of the visit was the establishment of stronger academic and artistic partnerships. Dr. Geraldine held discussions with Professor Ao Xiang of Chengdu University on future collaborations involving the integration of Chinese orchestral techniques into Malaysian orchestral compositions. Such initiatives are expected to encourage greater artistic innovation while preserving the unique cultural identities of both nations.
She also met with Chief Liaison Officer Ms. Lou Weneke to explore new opportunities for international cooperation in the fields of arts education, cultural exchange and performance development.
Another important topic discussed during the visit was the therapeutic value of music. Conversations focused on the potential benefits of music for neurodiverse individuals and senior citizens, highlighting the growing recognition of music as a tool for wellbeing and social inclusion.
The Chengdu visit marks another milestone in Dr. Geraldine’s efforts to build cultural bridges between Malaysia and China. Her contributions have not only elevated Sarawak’s profile internationally but have also opened doors for future collaborations that can benefit artists, educators and communities.
Looking ahead, Dr. Geraldine has been invited to speak at major conferences in Beijing and Shanghai later this year, where she will share her expertise and experiences in music education. Her continued involvement in international platforms is expected to further strengthen cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
As Sarawak prepares to host major international arts events in the coming years, initiatives such as these demonstrate the importance of cultural diplomacy in promoting mutual respect, creativity and long-term partnerships across borders.
