20 September 2024
By AVV
KOTA KINABALU: The 11th edition of Installation Art by the Bay @KK 2024, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tanjung Aru Beach, is more than just a celebration of creativity.
It represents a movement that seamlessly blends artistic expression with a pressing call for environmental sustainability, particularly in our cherished Sabah.
Thonny Chee, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sri Pelancongan said this when launching the event at Tanjung Aru Beach here today.
“This year’s theme, “Striving for Sustainability,” emphasizes the importance of upcycling reusable materials and I am thrilled to see 11 art installations from talented teams across Sabah and international participants from the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Denmark-Finland,” he said.
He noted that the materials used in these installations—scrap metal, plastic, cardboard, tree branches, leaves, and even fabrics—once considered waste, have been transformed into vibrant narratives that challenge us to reconsider our consumption habits.
“Each piece serves as a bold statement on the environmental challenges we face and a call to action that resonates deeply with all of us.”
“The environmental themes expressed through these artworks are rooted in four core values: Sustainable Development, Ecological Protection, Resource Conservation, and Environmental Leadership. These principles are intricately woven into the installations we see today.”
He stressed that over the past 11 years, this annual event has garnered global attention, celebrated not only for its artistic merit but also for its steadfast commitment to environmental values.
He encouraged visitors to view the artworks and allow them to inspire them sustainability and environmental expressions as public art events can play a vital role in enriching cultural landscape, transcending mere economic prosperity.
“As a tourism advocate, I believe we should develop more permanent installation art throughout our city. While our city is already known for its murals, we need to incorporate more sculptures and art installations to further enhance our tourism development strategies.”
This initiative will lead to increased tourism, an improved quality of life, and a community that is educated, inspired, and creatively stimulated, he said.
Also present during the event were Haryanty Abu Bakar Tourism Malaysia Sabah Director and Christianne Goonting the Organising Chairperson.
The 11th Installation Art by the Bay @ KK will be at Tanjung Aru Beach 2, in collaboration with the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival 2024, from September 20 to 22.
