IMH presents awards to top student musicians

December 16, 2017

Abdul Karim presents the IMH Achievement Award to Daniel Chan. Also seen is Law-Lee.

KUCHING: International Music House (IMH) presented its ‘Awards of Musical Stars’ on Thursday.

The IMH Achievement Award went to Daniel Chan and Cantona Cyril. Mohd Khalid Reduan was the IMH Outstanding Young Musician, while the IMH Outstanding Achievement award went to Abang Erfan Abang Aszman.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who presented the awards, praised IMH for giving scholarships to musical talents in the state from low income families and for creating its ‘Save The Talents Campaign’, which will be launched next year.

Ministry chips in RM40,000 for arm wrestling competition

December 15, 2017

Karim (seated second right) receives a courtesy call from Sasa members led by its president Matthew (second left) yesterday.

KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Arts Culture, Youth and Sports has approved a grant of RM40, 000 for Sarawak Armsport Association (Sasa) for the organising of Premiere 101 International Charity Arm Wrestling Competition to be held at Premiere 101 Square on Jan 19-20.

Its minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah commended Sasa for their efforts in organising the event and promoting the sport in the state.

“I have to admit that I am new to arm wrestling sport and had not heard of it happening here in Kuching, eventhough I know what the sport is all about,” he said when receiving a courtesy call from Sasa members at his office in Masja yesterday.

Galeri: Opening of SukSar 2017

December 15, 2017

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, on behalf of the Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, launches the opening of Suksar 2017 while (from third left) Sarawak Sports Corporation chief executive officer Dr Ong Kong Swee, Youth and Sports Assistant Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman and others look on. -TheBorneoPost

Karim bertanding Naib Presiden PBB?

December 15, 2017

KUCHING: Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah sekadar berteka-teki mengenai jawatan yang akan ditandinginya pada Perhimpunan Agung Tritahunan (TGM) Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB).

Beliau yang kini merupakan ahli Majlis Tertinggi PBB dan ketua Cawangan PBB Asajaya cuma mengesahkan beliau akan bertanding antara jawatan ahli majlis tertinggi dan naib presiden.

“Masih agak awal untuk memberitahu kepada anda (wartawan) jawatan mana yang akan saya tandingi. Lebih elok kita tunggu dan lihat dahulu,” katanya yang enggan mengulas lanjut ketika ditemui pada satu majlis di sini, semalam.

Abdul Karim may go for VP post in PBB TGM

December 15, 2017

KUCHING: Four-term Asajaya assemblyman Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is keen to contest for a party post in Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB) Triennial General Meeting (TGM) on Feb 8-12, next year.

Abdul Karim was all smiles when asked by reporters on the subject matter and said that if anything he will be going for just the PBB Supreme Council Member post or a higher position in the party as one of PBB vice presidents.

“But we must wait for all the PBB branches and sub-branches annual general meeting to be completed by Dec 31 before deciding on anything,” he said when met after receiving a courtesy call by the Sarawak Arms Sport Association (Sasa) at his office in Masja yesterday.

Galeri: Official launching of Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA)

December 14, 2017

(From right) State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister in the Chief Minister’s Office (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip and Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Assistant Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh give their thumbs-up to the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy Book 2018-2022 during a tour of the exhibition area. -TheBorneoPost

Karim sedih Khairy buat keputusan yang kejam

December 14, 2017

SIAP SEDIA: Pasukan pancaragam PDRM membawa bendera SukSar semasa raptai pembukaan kejohanan itu di Stadium Tertutup, Petra Jaya semalam.

Keputusan Khairy gugur tiga sukan dari sukan teras tidak ambil kira pandangan negeri-negeri terlibat SUKMA

KUCHING: Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berasa amat sedih dengan keputusan Menteri Belia dan Sukan Khairy Jamaluddin menggugurkan sepak takraw, angkat berat dan taekwondo daripada senarai sukan teras termasuk pada SUKMA 2018 di Perak.

Menurutnya, beliau hairan bagaimana keputusan ini dibuat sedangkan negerinegeri sudah dipanggil bermesyuarat dan keputusan muktamad telah dibuat awal tahun ini tentang sukansukan yang akan dipertandingkan pada SUKMA Perak 2018.

“Negeri-negeri termasuk Sarawak sudah mengatur persiapan dengan mengadakan pencarian atlet, menghantar mereka untuk pendedahan dalam pertandingan di luar dan dalam negeri, menyewa premis untuk latihan dan tempat tinggal untuk atlet dari kawasan pedalaman yang dipilih.

A major blow to Sarawak’s Sukma ambition

December 14, 2017

PDRM personnel carrying the games flag during a rehearsal for the SukSar opening ceremony at Stadium Perpaduan Sarawak, Petra Jaya yesterday. The 2017 SukSar will officially start today.

KUCHING: Sarawak’s bid to capture the overall championship crown in next year’s Sukma XIX in Perak has taken a big blow following the Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin’s announcement to drop three sports – Taekwondo, Weightlifting and Sepak Takraw – from the national games.

This is because Taekwondo and Weightlifting are among the major medal contributors for the Sarawak team in Sukma.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah was clearly not in a good mood when contacted yesterday.

‘Twice-weekly flight to boost tourism, business’

December 13, 2017

MIRI: The Xpress Air Indonesia inaugural flight to Miri from Pontianak in Indonesia represents a significant milestone in Sarawak’s tourism calender and the cooperation between the state and Kalimantan.

In stating this, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the state was excited to have this twice weekly flight from Pontianak to Miri which he hoped would strengthen the relationship between Sarawak and Kalimantan.

“This will also help in enhancing not only the tourism activities but also business from both places,” he said during a ceremony to welcome the inaugural Pontianak-Miri Express Air flight at Miri Airport yesterday afternoon.

Karim leads delegation to World Para Swimming Championship

December 7, 2017

Karim (fourth right) pose with his delegation and IPC officials.

MEXICO: Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is leading a delegation from the Ministry and Malaysia National Paralympic Council to Mexico to witness the 2017 World Para Swimming Championship.

The purpose of the visit was to have a hands-on experience on the running of the World Para Swimming Championship. This follows Sarawak winning the bid to host the 2019 Championship in Kuching.

The Minister took the time to witness the competition, tour the technical set-up and meet officials from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to discuss the technical and logistical support needed.

Sape will always be promoted -Abdul Karim

December 4, 2017

SIBU: Sarawak Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has given his assurance that the sape will always be promoted together with the other traditional musical instruments.

“The sape has always been prominently featured by our cultural troupes both locally and abroad.

“It has never been abandoned or not promoted.

"It is part of Sarawak’s ethnic culture heritage and will always be promoted together with the other traditional musical instruments,” he said when contacted by TheBorneoPost yesterday on his ministry’s efforts to promote Sape.

Go ahead and debate with Lina, Abdul Karim tells Pandikar

December 2, 2017

KUCHING: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia should just proceed to debate with STAR president Lina Soo on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that Pandikar is not qualified to debate with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“Our Chief Minister’s position is too high for you, Pandikar to challenge.

“Lina Soo from STAR has accepted your challenge to debate. Just accept the challenge,” he said yesterday.

‘Close ranks to recapture Sibu, Lanang’

December 2, 2017

SIBU: State Barisan Nasional leaders are echoing the Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg’s recent statement that there is a fighting chance for BN to wrest two opposition strongholds - Sibu and Lanang - this parliamentary election if Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) and United People’s Party (UPP) could close ranks and work out an amicable solution to their apparent division before the 14th General Election (GE14).

The Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sport Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah told TheBorneoPost that in order to win any seat or win any election, the party contesting must be able to maintain and secure unity of its members and supporters.

“I fully agree that to win Sibu and Lanang, BN parties SUPP, PBB, PRS and PDP as well as parties linked to BN like UPP in those seats must be able to unite their members and supporters and make sure they support the BN’s candidates.”

State to receive 412 historic Bornean artefacts from Dutch city

November 27, 2017

Forster (fifth left) presents a historic artefact to Abdul Karim (fourth right) witnessed by Janelle (third right), Ipoi (fourth left) and other officials.

KUCHING: Sarawak will receive 412 historic artefacts which have been donated by the City of Delft in the Netherlands to the Sarawak Museum Department to be displayed in the exhibition galleries of the new Sarawak Museum Campus.

Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah recently received one of the 412 historic artefacts, when he led a delegation from Sarawak to pay an appreciation visit to the city of Delft to convey the gratitude of the Sarawak State Government.

According to an article published by Asia-Europe Museum Network (Asemus) dated yesterday (Nov 27), the Deputy Mayor of Delft Ferrie Forster and the Director of Heritage Delft Janelle Moerman ceremonially handed over the collection to Abdul Karim and Sarawak Museum Department director Ipoi Datan at Museum Prinsenhof in Delft, the Netherlands.

Galeri: Majlis Makan Tahun Perdana

November 19, 2017

(From third left) Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg samples traditional Kedayan delicacies with his wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, Assistant Minister of Women, Family and Childhood Development Rosey Yunus, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat.

Chong tarik balik dakwaan terhadap Morshidi ekoran usul dibentang Karim

November 17, 2017

KUCHING: Chong Chieng Jen (DAP-Kota Sentosa) semalam menarik balik dakwaan ke atas Setiausaha Kerajaan Negeri Sarawak Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani ekoran satu usul dibentangkan Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Karim membentangkan usul meminta Dewan menggantung Chong daripada menghadiri Persidangan DUN yang berbaki sehari, selepas pengerusi DAP Sarawak itu menggunakan perkataan ‘imbuhan’ (gratification) di dalam Dewan ke atas Morshidi.

“Saya menarik balik perkataan ‘imbuhan’ tetapi persoalannya ialah semua permohonan untuk status ‘penduduk tetap’ masih di atas meja setiausaha kerajaan negeri, kekal,” katanya ketika menjawab Speaker DUN Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar yang memintanya menarik balik perkataan itu.

Abdul Karim: Visitor arrivals expected to hit 5-million mark, generate RM8.98b

November 16, 2017

Abdul Karim holds up his winding-up speech during a photo call with Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin.

THE STATE has received a total of 3.72 million visitor arrivals from January to September this year, an increase of 9.81 per cent compared to the same period in 2016 which saw 3.3 million arrivals.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, in his winding up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) yesterday, said the state’s tourism industry has so far generated an estimated receipt of RM6.9 billion.

“Based on past trends of average arrivals for the month of October to December, my ministry is anticipating five million visitor arrivals into Sarawak in 2017, an increase of 7.3 per cent as compared with 4.66 million in 2016,” he said.

Sarawak cuba berunding dengan Kerajaan Persekutuan untuk lebih banyak hasil Cukai Pelancongan

November 16, 2017

KUCHING: Kementerian Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan akan berusaha mendapatkan lebih lagi hasil daripada Cukai Pelancongan negara kepada negeri Sarawak.

Menterinya Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata, pihaknya sedia maklum bahawa hasil Cukai Pelancongan akan diberi sama rata sebanyak 10 peratus kepada setiap negeri dalam Malaysia.

“Walaupun demikian, kita sedang cuba berunding dengan kerajaan persekutuan bagi mendapatkan lebih banyak lagi hasil Cukai Pelancongan negara untuk Sarawak,” katanya.

Sarawak berjaya jadi destinasi peringkat kedua bagi acara perniagaan

November 16, 2017

KUCHING: Sarawak berjaya meletakkan dirinya sebagai salah satu destinasi peringkat kedua bagi acara perniagaan di rantau ini.

Menteri Pelancongan, Ke-senian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata, dari Januari hingga Oktober tahun 2017, Biro Konvensyen Sarawak (SCB) membawa 73 acara perniagaan ke Sarawak.

“73 acara perniagaan ini mewakili hampir 25,000 dele-gasi dan 73 hari perwakilan dengan menterjemahkan kira-kira RM81.7 juta dalam perbelanjaan perwakilan terus ke Sarawak.

3.72 juta pelancong lawat Sarawak setakat September

November 16, 2017

Peningkatan 9.81 peratus berbanding tempoh sama tahun lalu, jana resit pelancongan dianggarkan RM6.9 bilion

PERSIDANGAN: Karim bersama Menteri Muda Pelancongan, Kesenian dan Kebudayaan Datuk Lee Kim Shim melihat ucapan penggulungan bagi kementeriannya pada Persidangan DUN di Kompleks DUN, Kuching, semalam.

KUCHING: Sarawak menerima 3.72 juta pelancong dari Januari hingga September tahun ini, pe-ningkatan sebanyak 9.81 peratus berbanding tempoh yang sama pada tahun lalu.

Menteri Pelancongan, Ke-senian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata, ia telah menjana resit pelancongan yang dianggarkan berjumlah RM6.9 bilion.

Menurut beliau, berdasarkan trend lalu, purata ketibaan untuk bulan Oktober hingga Disember, kementeriannya menjangkakan kedatangan lima juta pelawat ke Sarawak pada 2017 iaitu peningkatan sebanyak 7.3 peratus berbanding 4.66 juta pada 2016.

Sarawak Museum Campus catalyst for tourism growth — Abd Karim

November 16, 2017

THE ongoing Sarawak Museum Campus Project, targeted to be completed by end of 2019, will contribute greatly to the state’s tourism development.

The project, said Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, has made significant progress and is 35 per cent complete.

“It will become the pride of the people of Sarawak and reposition Sarawak Museum Department as the manifestation of Sarawak’s culture, heritage and tourism,” he said.

RWMF tahun ini tarik 180 media antarabangsa, 50 bloger

November 16, 2017

KUCHING: Festival Hutan Hujan Sedunia (RWMF) tahun ini telah menarik 180 media antarabangsa dan 50 bloger dari seluruh dunia dengan nilai media berjumlah RM5 juta, kata Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Menurutnya, selain jualan tiket masuk berjumlah RM959,885, jumlah hasil langsung yang diterima daripada jualan kraf tangan adalah RM100,000 sementara jualan makanan dan minuman direkodkan sebanyak RM181,500.

“Secara keseluruhan, festival ini mencatat kejayaan berdasarkan hasil daripada tinjauan yang dijalankan menyatakan bahawa 84 peratus penonton berpuas hati berbanding 78 peratus tahun sebelumnya,” kata Karim.

Karim lauds ABAS for hosting Asian School championship

November 13, 2017

Participating contingents in a group photo at the Megalanes Sarawak during the opening ceremony on Saturday.

KUCHING: Teams from 10 countries are currently participating in the 18th Asian Schools Tenpin Bowling Championship which started on Saturday and ends this Friday at the Megalanes at Batu Kawa here.

Besides Malaysia the other teams are from Australia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Kuwait, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia and Singapore.

Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah officiated at the championship’s opening ceremony at the Megalanes on Saturday.

Galeri: Kota Samarahan Municipal Council inaugural anniversary dinner

November 12, 2017

Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud cuts the anniversary cake, witnessed by Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas (fifth right), Dato Peter Minos (second right), Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian (third right), Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (right), Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (left) and Taib’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Ragad Kurdi Taib (third left).

Galeri: Official Opening of Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival 2017 and Festival Kraf Sarawak 2017

November 12, 2017

Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg dots the eyes of a dragon boat.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg officiates at the opening of the craft festival.

Karim hopes Transport Ministry will reconsider its decision

November 10, 2017

KUCHING: The State Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah hopes the Transport Ministry would reconsider its decision to cease operations for six routes in Sabah and Sarawak by next year to make way for commercial airlines.

He said: “Ceasing operations for these routes will not be good for business, tourism and movements within these states. 

"It is hoped that the Transport Ministry and Mavcom will look into this matter deeply and not cease operation just based on load (factor) as it will greatly hinder the growth and development of towns where these flights are connected.”

Golden Jubilee Bridge committee pays courtesy call on TYT

November 8, 2017

Abdul Karim (third left) shows Taib a document during the courtesy call. Morshidi is at third right.

KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud received a courtesy call from the Golden Jubilee Bridge opening ceremony committee at Astana Negeri in Petra Jaya, Kuching yesterday.

State Secretary Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Morshidi Abdul Ghani invited Taib to officiate at the opening ceremony, which will be held on the evening of Nov 11.

The bridge across the Sarawak River will be a new landmark and tourist attraction here.

‘Community service programmes build character’

November 6, 2017

KUCHING: Public and private higher-learning institutions are encouraged to hold community service programmes to serve as a platform for character-building among their students or undergraduates.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said these institutions could seek financial support from the government or elected representatives to organise such programmes.

“I truly feel that community service is very important for the development of our young leaders.

Galeri : A visit by the Prince of Wales and his wife

November 6, 2017

Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah talks to Britain’s Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales and wife the Duchess of Cornwall Camilla Parker Bowles as they walk to the waiting vehicles upon their arrival.

Galeri: Celebration of the achievements of Sarawak athletes - SEA Games and Asean Para Games

November 2, 2017

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Dr Abang Johari Tun Openg flanked by wife Datin Patinggi Hajjah Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang and other ministers celebrate the achievements of Sarawak athletes at this year’s SEA Games and Asean Para Games.

‘Investigate no-case decision’

November 2, 2017

Minister wants MACC to probe release of logs, vehicles seized during raid on illegal logging

SIBU: Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah calls for a thorough investigation into the ‘no case’ decision by the investigation committee on the alleged illegal timber logging in Bintulu.

Smelling a rat, he said Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should also look into this matter to investigate whether there is any case of officials acting beyond their powers.

He was responding to The Borneo Post front page article headlined ‘Puzzled over release of seized logs, machinery worth millions’ dated Nov 1, where the director of Forest Department Sapuan Ahmad had confirmed the release of the logs and vehicles seized during the raid on alleged illegal timber logging.

Abdul Karim wants WAK to be continued

November 2, 2017

Abdul Karim speaks to the content drivers of WAK 2017. Also seen here are Marina (centre) and Donald (right).

KUCHING: Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah wants to see the What About Kuching (WAK) festival continue in coming years because it would be a waste to deprive locals of a platform to showcase all that was seen last month.

“I’m really impressed by what has been done by the community of Kuching,” he said during the WAK 2017 after-party on Monday night at Grand Margherita Hotel here.

The first WAK celebrating the arts, culture and lifestyles of the people of Kuching has just concluded, ending an event-packed month of October which saw everything from beads to beats, large-scale international events to local special interest tours, and events packing every weekend.

Sultan of Brunei to grace Sarawak Regatta 2017 on Nov 19

October 31, 2017

Abdul Karim (fourth left) witnesses the presentation of a mock cheque for RM500,000 from Petronas Sarawak regional general manager Shamsur Taha (third left) to Kuching Resident Shukarmin Chasemon (fourth right). Also seen is Ik Pahon (third right).

KUCHING: Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah will grace the Nov 19 race of the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival 2017.

This was announced by Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah after the cheque presentation from sponsors at the ministry’s office in Bangunan Baitulmakmur here yesterday

The annual event will run from Nov 10 to 19 this year, highlighting its key events – the headline regatta (Nov 17-19) and International Dragon Boat Race (Nov 10-12).

Regata Sarawak 2017 dari 10 hingga 19 November ini

October 31, 2017

TERIMA KASIH: Abdul Karim menyaksikan penyerahan tajaan daripada Petronas kepada Residen Bahagian Kuching, Shukarmin Chasemon sambil disaksikan tetamu lain di Kuching, semalam.

KUCHING: Temasya sukan air popular di negeri ini, Regata Sarawak 2017 kembali lagi dengan menawarkan hadiah wang tunai berjumlah RM10,000 untuk Raja Sungai.

Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata temasya sukan air itu bermula dari 10 hingga 19 November ini dengan pelbagai acara menarik disediakan.

Beliau menjelaskan, antara acara menjadi tumpuan Perlumbaan Perahu Naga Antarabangsa bermula dari 10 hingga 12 November menyaksikan 21 pasukan telah menghantar penyertaan.

Karim's ministry feels deeply honoured with Scoot's decision

October 31, 2017

Passengers and crew on Scoot’s inaugural flight to Kuching with members of Sarawak cultural troupe in traditional wear. Also seen are Datu Ik Pahon (third left), Mary Wan (second left), and Vinod (right).

KUCHING: The Sarawak Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry felt deeply honoured with Scoot's - a low-cost arm of the Singapore Airlines Group - decision to choose Kuching as its first destination in East Malaysia.

Its minister, Datuk Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, in his press statement as published by The Borneo Post, said the decision would not only offer a new avenue to the state populace as well as the neigbouring state and country to fly to popular destinations, "we are also immensely pleased to welcome Scoot and its passengers from the region and beyond to visit our beautiful state that is a prime destination for culture, nature and adventure tourism."

He added his ministry was confident that "the launch of Scoot’s direct flight between Kuching and Singapore will further help us to promote Sarawak and Kuching as the preferred nature tourism destination.”

Galeri: Signing of MOU between Kuching FA and JiSung Foundation

October 31, 2017

A Seoul-based JiSung Foundation representative Park Sungjong (third right) exchanges a MOU with Kuching FA chairman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman as Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (centre) looks on.

Double cheer as Sarawak rugby salute Brother Columba

October 31, 2017

Inaugural Br Columba Memorial Cup champions and coach Zamzy (left) pose with Karim (sixth right) and (from fourth right) Liew, Morshidi, Song and Ong after the prize presentation.

KUCHING: The Sarawak Rugby Union’s (SRU) efforts to rejuvenate rugby in the state has received a tremendous boost with good news from the Sarawak government last Sunday.

Firstly, the Song Kheng Hai Rugby Ground will stay on as a permanent venue for rugby activities.

Secondly, the State government has also decided to build two more rugby pitches at the Sarawak Sports Complex for regional and international tournaments.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah conveyed the good news during the closing ceremony of the inaugural Brother Columba Memorial Cup Sevens at Song Kheng Hai Ground on Sunday.

Duty-free zone in Sarawak a viable move — Abdul Karim

October 31, 2017

SIBU: The suggestion put forth by Malaysian Association of Hotels (Sarawak Chapter) secretary-general John Teo Peng Yew on the setting-up of a duty-free zone in the state receives full support from Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youths and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

In his proposal, Teo viewed having a duty-free zone in Sarawak would further enhance state tourism in view of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2020, as announced during the tabling of Budget 2018 last Friday.

Moreover, he said Miri city – specifically Senadin – could be considered as a strategic location for the proposed duty-free zone in that it is near to Brunei and Sabah.

Cukai Pelancongan tidak jejas sektor hospitaliti berskala kecil, kata Karim

October 31, 2017

KUCHING: Pelaksanaan Cukai Pelancongan tidak memberi kesan kepada sektor hospitaliti berskala kecil di negeri ini.

Menteri Pelancongan, Kesenian, Kebudayaan, Belia dan Sukan Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah berkata antaranya, pengusaha inap desa, hotel bajet dan rumah tumpa-ngan.

Malah katanya, cukai itu juga terkecuali untuk pelancong tempatan.

“Saya tidak fikir ia memberi kesan kepada hotel bajet, inap desa dan rumah tumpangan.

Galeri: State-level ‘Youth Day’ celebration in Betong

October 29, 2017

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg (standing front, fifth right) joins (standing front, from right) Layar assemblyman Gerald Rentap Jabu and his father former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah and Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah in a photo-call with the youths. Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Snowdan Lawan is standing front, at second left.

‘Nothing new in Pakatan’s alternative Budget 2018’

October 27, 2017

KUCHING: The promises made by Pakatan Harapan (PH) in its alternative Budget 2018 has been described as nothing new by Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

According to him, they are sugar-laced promises which they make before every election, which do not contain much substance.

Abdul Karim, who is Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Supreme Council member, said the promises made in the alternative budget looked sweet and juicy but it remained to be seen if the coalition could commit to what was being promised.

Galeri: Diwali Lunch

October 23, 2017

Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud in a light moment with a prominent Indian businessman Shankar Ram Asnani (third left) and others  at the King’s Curry restaurant in Kuching. Also seen are Taib's  wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib (right) and Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (second left). (third left) and others.

Sarawakians must preserve their culture, tradition, heritage as tourism assets, says Abdul Karim

October 22, 2017

Abdul Karim (sixth left) and his wife Zuraini (fifth left) given a special welcome in the Kayan tradition called ‘parap’ on stage during the dinner. Dennis is on seventh left.

KUCHING: Sarawakians must do their best to preserve their culture, tradition and heritage if the state is to welcome more visitors and tourists.

According to Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the state’s traditional cultures and heritage are important tourism assets which could also benefit the various communities economically.

“Do your best to preserve what you have which is your culture, tradition and heritage. It is not only important for your future generation, but they also can help you earn income,” he said during a dinner organised by the Kuching branch, Sarawak Kayan Association at a local hotel here on Friday.

Sarawakians must preserve their culture, tradition, heritage as tourism assets, says Abdul Karim

October 22, 2017

Abdul Karim (sixth left) and his wife Zuraini (fifth left) given a special welcome in the Kayan tradition called ‘parap’ on stage during the dinner. Dennis is on seventh left.

KUCHING: Sarawakians must do their best to preserve their culture, tradition and heritage if the state is to welcome more visitors and tourists.

According to Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the state’s traditional cultures and heritage are important tourism assets which could also benefit the various communities economically.

“Do your best to preserve what you have which is your culture, tradition and heritage. It is not only important for your future generation, but they also can help you earn income,” he said during a dinner organised by the Kuching branch, Sarawak Kayan Association at a local hotel here on Friday.

Abang Jo kekal presiden SABERKAS, Abdul Karim timbalan

Oktober 16, 2017

MANTAP: Abang Johari bersama barisan kepimpinan baharu Saberkas 2017-2020

KUCHING: Pertubuhan Belia Bersatu Sarawak (SABERKAS) mengekalkan Ketua Menteri Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari TUn Abang Openg sebagai presiden bagi penggal 2017-2020 menerusi Perhimpinan Tritahunan SABERKAS di sini, semalam.

Bagaimanapun, jawatan timbalan presiden diberikan kepada muka baharu iaitu Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah bagi menggantikan Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn yang mengundur diri kerana ingin memberi peluang kepada muka baharu.

Naib presiden juga menyaksikan tiga muka baharu iaitu Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Dennis Ngau dan Gerald Rentap Jabu termasuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, yang menang tanpa bertanding.

Minister vows bigger KIBW in 2019

October 16, 2017

(From left) Abdul Karim, Abang Johari and others make their way to the hall for the KIBW 2017 gala dinner. 

KUCHING: The Kuching International Bike Week (KIBW) is set to return on a bigger scale in two years’ time.

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah pledged to support the event — held every two years — for many more years to come.

“Make sure you (bikers) mark your diary. In two years’ time, come back for a bigger KIBW,” he said when addressing bikers at the KIBW 2017 gala dinner held at a leading hotel here last Saturday.

‘Slamming of Umno-PAS pact by opposition reeks of hypocrisy’

October 15, 2017

SIBU: DAP Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen and state PKR chairman Baru Bian should not become the ‘stooges of unhealthy politics of the west’, and that they need to relook at themselves before questioning Sarawak Barisan Nasional (BN).

In making this statement, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youths and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the condemnation by Chong and Baru of the purported Umno-PAS alliance only showed their hypocrisy, in that PAS was once under the Pakatan pact.

He recalled that when PAS was in Pakatan, it was regarded as a loyal partner and nothing was mentioned about it being ‘an evil party’.