Sabah artists displaced from Laman Seni will soon have alternative spaces to continue their businesses, said Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
“I have not personally seen the letter, but I’ve spoken to the cultural board, and they are already looking into finding alternative spaces for the artists to operate,” she told reporters after hosting the ministry’s Chinese New Year luncheon with the press on Thursday.
Laman Seni, a 16-lot creative hub adjacent to Wisma Budaya, has served as a platform for local artists to showcase and sell their work since 2016. Both Laman Seni and Wisma Budaya, operated by the Sabah Cultural Board, will be affected by redevelopment plans.
Wisma Budaya has been declared unsafe, with plans to demolish and rebuild it to serve tourism and cultural purposes. Consequently, Laman Seni will also be impacted, leaving artists uncertain about their future.
The ministry has confirmed that the artists will be relocated to Balai Seni near Penampang.
“We are committed to supporting local talents and will ensure they have suitable venues to continue their activities,” Liew said, reaffirming her ministry’s dedication to fostering Sabah’s arts and cultural scene.
Artists have expressed relief at the government’s assurance, hoping the relocation will minimize disruptions caused by the redevelopment. – January 16, 2025.
