Iban music industry can drive economic opportunities

BETONG: The Iban music industry has the potential to unlock new economic opportunities while safeguarding the community’s cultural identity, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

Uggah, who is also the Patron of the Anugerah Carta Sapa Juara (ACSJ), said efforts to strengthen the Iban music industry must be carried out comprehensively through the development of new talent, marketing of quality works and the establishment of a progressive arts ecosystem.

He said the organisation of ACSJ was an important platform to recognise the works and talents of Iban singers with the potential to further develop the local music industry.

He said this in his text delivered by Betong Resident Datuk Richard Michael Abunawas at the grand finale of the 9th ACSJ at the Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan Sports Hall here on Saturday.

Held under the theme Ngelatika Industri Muzik Iban, this year’s event also focused on developing industry professionals and ensuring that the economic value generated by the industry is channelled back to artistes and the local community.

At the competition, Tanah Berenyang was crowned champion with the song “Arissa”, taking home RM10,000 in cash and a trophy.

Mawat, with Dayang Bintang, placed second and received RM8,000 and a trophy, while Phoebe Chloe took third place with “Diempu Nuan Siku”, receiving RM5,000 and a trophy.

Mawat also won three special awards — Most Popular ACSJ 9 Finalist, Most Popular ACSJ Song and Best Performance.

In the individual categories, Winnie Albert won Best Vocal for “Aku Ukai Lulung”, Joannes Johnny Aman received Best Lyrics for “Bisi Intan Dikembuan”, while Ramles Walter was named the Most Sporting ACSJ Artiste.

The 9th ACSJ offered total prizes worth RM77,000 across nine categories, providing a platform to showcase the talent and creativity of Iban music practitioners.