GIVE LOCAL ARTISTES A CHANCE

KOTA KINABALU : Nobody can be an exact clone of Korean singer, Psy or American star, Justin Bieber.

But give Sabahans a chance to perform the opening act with at least one or two songs and reap financial rewards, said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun at the launching of the Sabahan Creative Industry [Arts] Group Movement (SCIGM) here Monday.

At a press conference after handing over contributions to 11 local veteran artistes, he urged non-Sabahan promoters and organisers from outside to include Sabahan artistes in their concerts or shows.

"They should pay them fair and square."

About RM2,000 was distributed to each recipient by Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia.

Although there were more veterans on the list, they were unable to make it to the event while some were also unable to be traced.

However, efforts are being done to make sure that the donations reach them.

Emphasising on the new movement's role to ensure local artistes' welfare are taken care of, Masidi reminded that they should be paid well including those who are behind the scenes/back stage. "They should be paid reasonably."

"The new guidelines must be followed. Artistes with star or grade cannot be paid less than RM2,000." The SCIGM will represent Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia because there is no branch of Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia (YA1M) here, added Masidi.

Apart from that, he also stated that we should emphasise on love and care.

" Unfortunately, humans are not good in remembering peopleÉwe tend to forget even the people who have helped us."

"Do not bring all crew from KL/overseas. We do have local talents here."

Also part of Masidi's statement was that he has made sure a careful and stringent selection process is applied when it comes to allowing non-Sabahan performers to come.

"Not because we want to deny the public the show that they want, but representing the state government, we want to make sure that artistes are well taken care of."

Meanwhile, Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia's chairman, Datuk DJ Dave said that the contribution and assistance is not intended only for veterans.

"The younger ones who need help are also taken care of.

All they need to do is let me know through SCIGM founder and president, Rozza Rothman (088-254 958). In fact, I knew about those who needed assistance from singer Peter Dicky Lee and Rozza.

"We will also help younger artistes," he confirmed and thanked the Prime Minister for being swift in allocating RM 1 million last year and another RM 3 million this year for this purpose. "My job is to distribute help to those who deserve it."

Highlighting on what a caring person the Prime Minister is, Dave came to the realisation of helping out when he personally saw the struggles of fellow artistes. "When they were dying, nobody helped them.

More programmes are on his list including an application for tax exemption. We also welcome donation from other corporations, he said.

According to Dave, artistes helped build the nation, foster integration among races and make people laugh.

"They've done it through songs, on stage performances and through TV shows. But, when they are older, nobody recognises them. With this realisation, I thought something should be done."

We should remember them and assist them, added Masidi. (DE)