Art and culture activists are encouraged to benefit from funds provided by the Government of Sarawak

KUCHING, Sept. 23: Sarawak Government urges youth, especially art and culture activists, to be more proactive in leveraging the Creative Industries Fund which provides RM5 million a year in grants or direct donations.

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the reception for the fund was still low compared to the Event Fund which received more applications from event organizers in Sarawak.

"This fund is not a loan, but a grant or continuing donation. So, those who need this fund should come and apply to us", he said at a press conference of the Sarawak National Sports Integrity Conference (SNSIC) 2026 here today.

He said that besides the Creative Industries Fund, Sarawak Heritage, Arts and Culture Mobile Fund is also available to help young people involved in creative industries, especially arts.

He said, however, that the number of applications for the scheme so far has not yet reached its expected level.

"The fund has basic eligibility requirements and is dedicated to youth, either individually or through associations", he said.

Abdul Karim said the Youth Creative Industry Fund is also open to students of higher education institutions in arts and culture who want to increase their capacity and develop potential in creative industries.

Meanwhile, he said the ministry would review the status of applications received to ensure that each application is processed and none has yet received feedback from the relevant committee.

"We will review all applications received so that no one gets trapped and each application receives a proper response", he said.