‘If not us, who?’ — Nga Kor Ming hits back at critics of PM’s support for local artists

Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin performs at the Gema Bumantara Traditional Concert at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on October 19, 2026. — Bernama pic

By Arif Zikri

First Published: Wednesday, 21 Oct 2026 11:24 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 — Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has defended Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim over his attendance at pop idol Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza's traditional concert last weekend, saying such patronage was vital to Malaysia’s creative industry.

Nga rejected criticisms over Anwar's presence at the weekend performance, stressing that government leadership must champion homegrown talent if the nation hopes to build a thriving arts ecosystem.

“When the government aims to develop the orange economy so local artists, painters, and musicians can earn a living, yet there are some who still object.

“So I want to ask: if the prime minister doesn't support local artists, then who will? If not us, who? And if not now, then when?” Nga told reporters after officiating the Toilet of the Year Award 2026 in Kuala Lumpur last night.

Drawing a sharp cultural comparison, the minister questioned the double standards often applied to local stars.

“If the United States can be proud of Taylor Swift, why can't we be proud of Siti Nurhaliza?” he said.

Nga disclosed that the Cabinet has agreed to establish a dedicated orange economy fund designed to empower the domestic music fraternity and nurture national creative talent.

He said state support must reach beyond individual headliners to encompass grassroots creative practitioners who elevate Malaysia's international profile, especially through cultural productions that showcase the country's diverse heritage on the world stage.

Yesterday, during Prime Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Anwar addressed the issue directly, clarifying that he attended the massive concert at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium on Saturday upon a special invitation to celebrate traditional arts, heritage, and culture.

The prime minister noted that the showcase celebrated Malaysia's pluralistic cultural roots by incorporating traditional wayang kulit shadow puppetry, classical dance ensembles, and indigenous performances from Sabah and Sarawak, presenting the country's artistic heritage to an arena-sized modern audience.