KUCHING – The play Rise Of The True King Jr, conducted entirely in English, has been well-received as a progressive move in developing the arts scene in Sarawak. The play is considered a platform to develop young talents while adding diversity to the state’s arts scene.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, was also present at the performance held at Balai Budaya, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) on Sunday. According to him, the performance is an attempt to widen the scope of stage performances in the state.
“This is a very bold move. Although there have been performances before, this performance offers a great opportunity to be organized again in the future and the use of English is encouraged,” he said.
Datuk Abdullah pointed out the importance of exposing children and youths to theatre from the primary school level as a good start.
He said that exposing them to theatre performances at a young age will help to instill confidence and creativity in them, as well as enhance the cultural identity of Sarawak.
He said that the initiative is in line with the vision of Sarawak to promote cultural and artistic activities. The state is now working to complete a new arts complex at the Old State Legislative Assembly within the next two years.
When completed, the complex will be one of the largest in the country, providing a venue for performances and cultural activities.
Datuk Abdullah was confident that the performers involved in Rise Of The True King Jr could one day display their talent at the upcoming arts centre.
He also extended his appreciation to the theatre director, production team, and backstage staff, who are mostly young people contributing to the success of the show.
Although he acknowledged the support of the government and the agency, he emphasized the need for financial support in order to maintain the quality of the productions.
“Stage performances like this require comprehensive support, including funding support. I hope that efforts to support such productions can continue,” he said.
The production is a reflection of Sarawak’s dedication to developing a new breed of performers who are not only competitive but also versatile.
Sarawak’s move to adopt English-language theatre is not only an effort to increase the diversity of the arts but also to equip the younger generation to reach out to a wider audience at the national and international levels.
The success of Rise Of The True King Jr proves that strategic initiatives in the arts can inspire young talent, build cultural identity, and lay the foundation for Sarawak to emerge as a major hub for performing arts in Malaysia.
