KUCHING: Hungary is expected to take part in the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) next year, marking a new chapter in cultural collaboration between Sarawak and the European nation.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting said the proposal was among matters discussed during a courtesy call by the Ambassador of Hungary to Malaysia Dr. Sándor Sipos on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex here today.
Ting said that discussions have already taken place between the Hungarian delegation and the Sarawak Tourism Board, led by its chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor, to explore potential cooperation.
“His Excellency mentioned that Hungary would probably like to join us in the Rainforest World Music Festival next year,” he told a press conference after accompanying the ambassador.
Ting said Sarawak has also extended an invitation for Hungary to attend this year’s edition of the festival, scheduled from Jun 26 to 28.
Welcoming Sipos on his first visit to Kuching, Ting said the state is keen to strengthen tourism ties with Hungary.
“Indeed, we are very happy to receive His Excellency. This is his first trip to Kuching and we look forward to closer collaboration,” he said.
Ting noted that Sarawak has much to offer international visitors, particularly in eco-tourism and cultural heritage.
“We should promote our tourism sector to Hungary and invite more Hungarian visitors to come to Sarawak. We have a lot to offer, not only our food but also our rich ecosystem,” he said.
He highlighted that Sarawak is home to two UNESCO-listed sites in Miri namely Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, which he said can further strengthen tourism collaboration between Sarawak and Hungary.
