Sebastian Ting Commends Young Musician for Bridging Cultures Through Erhu

suppadmin | November 23, 2025

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting, has praised the inspiring dedication of Form Two student Ms Irdina from SMK St Columba, whose passion for the erhu has touched many across the state.

Ting said he was deeply moved by the young Muslim student who, despite not understanding the Chinese language, chose to learn the traditional Chinese instrument purely out of interest and determination.

Her story shows that music has no boundaries. It reminds us that Sarawak is strongest when we embrace our harmony, our diversity, and our willingness to appreciate one another, he said.

Ting also expressed his appreciation to Ms Irdina’s parents for supporting her musical journey and to the teachers who guided her. When families and schools work hand in hand, our children grow with the right values, he added.

He noted that Sarawak is blessed with rich cultural diversity and called on the community to continue nurturing unity through culture. We must keep moving forward together, finding common ground in our differences and giving every child the chance to grow, learn, and dream, Ting said.

Ting acknowledged the recent report highlighting Ms Irdina’s talent, which prompted a wave of kindness from the public.

Ends

Here is a rewritten news version quoting Sebastian Ting, with no bold text and no hyphens, following your preferences:

Sebastian Ting Commends Young Musician for Bridging Cultures Through Erhu

e school and contributed RM1,000 erhu, helping her own her first instrument.These gestures reflect the spirit of unity we treasure in Sarawak, Ting said.

He encouraged continued support for arts education, noting that schools should provide spaces where students of all backgrounds can explore their talents freely. Music can be a bridge between cultures and a force that brings our society closer together, he said.