The Sarawak government is ready to organise large-scale annual events such as Karnival Jom Heboh Segulai Sejalai (KJH) to benefit its diverse community.
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah says as a government that is aware of the needs of a multicultural society, organising events like this is highly welcomed.
He adds that the Sarawak government supports community-based events as they are crucial in building a strong, united and inclusive community.
"The organisation of events and activities in the community will contribute to the development and stimulation of the local economy by attracting domestic and international visitors.
"It can also boost the local economy and businesses in various sectors, especially tourism."
Karim says the Sarawak government will continue to develop and strengthen the community through events that foster togetherness and unity.
"Such events provide a good platform for the public to gather and celebrate their diversity, directly strengthening harmony in a diverse community of different races, ethnicities and religions.
"The organisation of KJH in Kuching after 11 years aligns with our goals as it brings many benefits to the community, including local business communities," he adds.
Karim hopes that KJH will provide opportunities for businesses, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises, vendors and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services more attractively.
On the impact of such large-scale events on the economy, he says it has a positive effect, especially on the domestic tourism sector.
In addition to attracting domestic and international visitors, such events also result in increased spending on accommodation, food, transportation, shopping and entertainment, thus boosting the economy, creating jobs and generating income for businesses.
Karim says large-scale events also promote Sarawak as an attractive destination because the events showcase many attractions, including the local cultures and traditions.
"For visitors, their participation in the events and experiencing Sarawak hospitality serve as word-of-mouth promotion, helping to attract more tourists to Sarawak."
He is confident that KJH can help to discover and polish talent in the performing arts through the competitions held during the event.
"The search for talent through the entertainment-based events can be seen as an investment in the potential of the younger generation, thereby empowering them to realise their dreams and aspirations to build a more solid and energetic community.
"A healthy competition among young talent will help them to showcase their performing arts abilities, making their careers as entertainers more convincing.
"Hence, the Sarawak government welcomes the organisation of events involving young talent."
On the inaugural esports event at KJH this year, Karim says it aligns with technological advancements, opening opportunities for young enthusiasts to become professional online sports players.
"The organisation of esports in KJH strengthens community and social relations, especially among young people who are looking for opportunities to come together and interact with their peers."
Karnival Jom Heboh, which offers entertainment for the whole family, returns to Sarawak after it was last held in 2013.
The programme, organised by Media Prima Berhad, is fully supported by the Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry.