KUCHING: The Malay Heritage Festival 2018, which features traditional activities based on the detailed presentation of Malay heritage, was officially launched for its inaugural event at Satok Sports Complex’s SLPAS Field, Kuching. The launching ceremony last Sunday was graced by Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
Among the highlights of the more than 15 heritage-based activities outlined during the inaugural event included displaying the history of various villages, selected artefacts from the museum, as well as collections of old photos of yesteryears.
Also featured were a silat performance and various community activities such as bermukun, hadrah, tongko, traditional dances, and many more. “Congratulations to the organiser on their efforts to preserve our heritage.
As we all know, we are very rich in culture. Our strong tolerance and understanding has brought upon peace and unity among our society.
“The state government also has put in efforts to preserve our heritage combined with modern development, especially along our waterfront for tourist attraction,” said Johari. On that note, Johari also said that the state government will have its own offices in Singapore, Pontianak (Indonesia), and Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei) soon.
“On record, about 4.8 million tourists visit Sarawak and by having branches in these countries, it will enhance the management of visitors to Sarawak. “Air Asia also will have direct flights from Kuching to Jakarta and from Kuching to Bangkok. Brunei will also send their Royal Brunei Airline flights to Kuching soon,” he added.
Also present were State Science Research Advisor, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang; State Secretary, Tan Sri Morshidi Abdul Ghani; Minister of Tourism, Art, Cultures, Youth and Sports, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; and Assistant Minister of Law, State-Federal Relations and Project Monitoring, Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aiman Ghazali.
