Handicraft chief apologises over KIA wall

KUCHING: Sarawak Handicraft, Arts and Souvenir Association president Gerald Goh has apologised for his earlier criticism of the ‘Iconic Wall’ at Kuching International Airport (KIA), saying his initial assessment was too conclusive.

In a Facebook post today, Goh said he had reconsidered his assessment after receiving an explanation on the contemporary interpretation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage behind the artwork.

“I would like to sincerely apologise to all concern for my earlier Facebook post in which I expressed the view that the ‘Iconic Wall’ at Kuching International Airport did not reflect enough on Sarawakian artistic identity.

“Having considered the explanation provided regarding the contemporary interpretation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage, I acknowledge that my initial assessment may have been too conclusive without fully considering the broader artistic context,” he said.

Goh had earlier raised concerns over similarities between elements of the design and Indonesian artistic styles, questioning whether the artwork sufficiently reflected Sarawak’s cultural identity.

The issue subsequently drew comment from Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who initially said the backdrop should be replaced if its motifs were found not to represent Sarawak.

Abdul Karim later explained that the artwork was intended as a contemporary interpretation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage, incorporating elements including Pua Kumbu and the mangosteen calyx.

He also said the flowing design represented Sarawak’s rivers, journeys, culture and history, while the artwork had been developed with reference to research and publications from local universities.

Following the clarification, Goh said he recognised that contemporary art could draw inspiration from different cultural traditions.

“While certain elements of the design evoke similarities to Indonesian artistic styles from my perspective, I recognise that contemporary art can draw inspiration from diverse cultural traditions, and that visual impressions alone may not tell the whole story,” he said.

However, Goh said his underlying concern over the representation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage remained.

“My intention has always been to encourage meaningful discussion about the representation of Sarawak’s distinctive cultural heritage, particularly at an important gateway to our state,” he said.

He added that the concern should be expressed with greater care and openness to other perspectives.

Goh also welcomed further discussion on the artwork, saying he remained committed to Sarawak’s cultural heritage.

“I apologise for the categorical nature of my earlier statement and any misunderstanding it may have caused,” he said.