Abdul Karim (fourth left), Ting (second left) and others witness the exchange of the MoU between Faisal (third left) and Wong-Jabu. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (June 10): Sarawak is set to take centre stage in global heritage conservation efforts when it hosts the International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) 22nd General Assembly and Scientific Symposium (GA2026) this Oct 17 to 24.
State Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the assembly, to be held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), would be the first Icomos General Assembly ever hosted in Southeast Asia.
“Often described as the ‘Olympics of Cultural Heritage’, GA2026 will place Sarawak and Malaysia at the centre of global discussions on heritage conservation, sustainable development and resilient communities.
“Held under the theme, ‘Living Heritage: Respect. Enhance. Accept. Partnership.’, the event has already attracted more than 1,100 registered delegates from around the world,” he told a press conference at his ministry office at Baitulmakmur II here yesterday.
Also present were State Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, the ministry’s permanent secretary Morshidi Fredrick, Sarawak Heritage Society (SHS) president Datin Rosemarie Wong-Jabu, Icomos Malaysia president Faisal Abdul Rahman and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) acting chief executive officer Jason Tan Chin Foo.
Abdul Karim said heritage conservation should not be viewed merely as preserving the past, but as an important element in shaping the future.
“As Sarawak and Malaysia continue to develop, we recognise that progress and heritage must go hand in hand.
“Heritage strengthens community identity, supports cultural tourism, creates opportunities for creative and traditional industries, and contributes to sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
He noted that at a time when many cultures face the pressures of rapid modernisation, GA2026 serves as a timely reminder of the importance of protecting and passing on heritage to future generations.
“By keeping our heritage alive, we ensure that future generations understand who they are, where they come from and the values that define them,” he added.
During the press conference, Abdul Karim also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Icomos Malaysia and SHS, which was signed by Faisal and Wong-Jabu respectively.
“Through this MoU, both organisations have committed to working together in research, training, knowledge exchange, community engagement and heritage conservation initiatives.
“This partnership will strengthen efforts to safeguard Sarawak’s living heritage while ensuring that local communities remain at the heart of these efforts,” he said.
Abdul Karim commended both organisations for the initiative and encouraged other agencies, associations and organisations to contribute to programmes and legacy initiatives linked to GA2026.
He also expressed appreciation to Faisal and the event organising team for their efforts in bringing the prestigious international assembly to Sarawak, as well as BESarawak for supporting the bid and preparations.
He reiterated the Sarawak government’s commitment to working closely with Icomos Malaysia and all stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the landmark event next year.
