Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah State Arts Awards (ASN) ceremony celebrated the State’s cultural champions at Hotel Horizon recently, with six individuals and organisations receiving recognition for their contributions to the arts.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew officiated the ceremony, which saw Abdul Karim Gulam crowned as the 2025 Sabah State Arts Icon, earning him RM9, 000 in prize money, a certificate and a trophy.
Abdul Karim, 68, from Tenom, is a freelance arts activist since 1979, specialising in scriptwriting and theatre and serves as Adviser to Kelab Anak Teater Sabah.
The ceremony, organised by the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Sabah with support from the state ministry, also recognised three Arts Advocates across different sectors.
The Academy of Creative Arts and Technology (ASTiF) took home the Government/Corporate Agency award, while SEAMEX Sabah Association won in the Non-Governmental Organisation category.
Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) was honoured as the Media Organisation advocate. Each received RM3, 000 in cash prizes. RTM Sabah Director, Mohd Yusni Mohamed Ali, received the Arts Advocate (Media Organisation) Award on behalf of RTM.
Two Special Awards were presented, namely, the Male-Efficient group won the Senior Category, while SMK Tawau claimed the Junior Category honour. Both received RM4, 000 each.
JKKN’s Culture and Arts Sector Deputy Director-General, Mohd Radzi Omar, delivered the welcoming address on behalf of the Director-General.
The event featured cultural performances by Jane Anastasia Ann Yali, Effah Hazierah Azamain, the Sekafi Music Apprenticeship Ensemble and the JKKN Sabah Cultural Troupe.
In a boost to the arts community, the state ministry increased the total prize distribution by RM20, 000 this year, reflecting stronger government commitment to supporting local artists and cultural practitioners.
The awards ceremony places Sabah’s position as a hub for both traditional and contemporary arts, recognising contributions that have elevated the State’s cultural profile nationally and internationally.
Also present were Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, JKKN Sabah Director Marina Abu Bakar and JKKN Arts and Culture Enhancement Division Director Saifulkhairi Ahmad.
