KUCHING: The state government has allocated RM10 million to increase tourism programmes and promotions in Sarawak next year.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the sum had been set aside in the 2022 State Budget.
“It (the allocation) is to set up the Heritage, Arts and Culture Facilitation Fund next year and tap into the state’s potential that is rich in culture and ethnicity, and diverse in artistic expression.”
Abang Johari said this at the inauguration of the Pehin Sri Adenan Satem Chair and the 2nd International Conference on Social Sciences & Humanities 2021 (Icossh) here on Wednesday (Oct 27).
“I sincerely hope that we can continue similar programmes to create opportunities and enhance efforts in establishing academic and research collaborations between universities on the Borneo island and throughout the archipelago.
“At the same time, we can enhance Borneo’s reputation as a commercial eco-tourism destination by promoting Borneo’s cultural heritage internationally,” he said.
On Icossh, Abang Johari noted that the conference has brought together participants from various backgrounds and countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
“I wish to convey my deepest appreciation to the efforts made to provide a platform for discussions on the cultural diversity found in this archipelago.
“Indeed, the conference can well lead to the development of an international-level education hub in Borneo and build relationships to promote and foster the diversity of its communities’ cultural traditions,” he said.
The chief minister was confident that such cultural assembly would also help the general public recognise the wealth of the culture in the region.
“We must at the same time strive to preserve our vast cultural heritage to be handed down to our future generations,” he said.
