KUCHING: About 1,000 participants from various sectors are expected to converge at the Sarawak Urban Forum (SUF) 2.0 here from Oct 24 to 27.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, said the forum would gather policymakers, local authorities, government agencies, private sector representatives, academic institutions, industry experts, and various stakeholders.
He said that to strengthen knowledge-sharing and regional collaboration, SUF 2.0 would also feature prominent panel speakers invited from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Brunei Darussalam, and West Kalimantan, Indonesia.
“SUF 2.0 aims to serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences and best practices in urban development, while strengthening strategic cooperation towards creating sustainable, smart, inclusive and resilient cities.
“It will also discuss solutions to address the challenges of urbanisation and global changes, including climate change that is currently affecting the world, including Sarawak,” he said during SUF 2.0 media conference at a hotel here on Wednesday.
The forum, which is being organised again by Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) following the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, carries the theme ‘Future-Ready Cities: Building Resilient Futures – Collaborate, Adapt, Thrive’, highlighting the importance of collaboration, adaptability and resilience in shaping future cities.
He added that SUF 2.0 would also witness the launch of the Kuching Low Carbon Master Plan, as well as several strategic projects, namely Unity Park, the Bamboo Garden, Kuching Civic Centre, and the Kuching Park Connector.
He also said that the four-day forum, which will be held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC), would be officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on October 26.
“The launch of these initiatives will further strengthen the low-carbon city agenda, environmental conservation efforts, and improve the quality of life for urban communities,” he said.
He added the forum would serve as a platform to involve various segments of society in the urban development process, including participation from the DBKU Children’s Community Council, DBKU Youth Community Council, and DBKU Senior Citizens’ Community Council.
“This platform provides opportunities for the community to voice their views and suggestions in efforts to create a more inclusive city,” he added.
He also said about 20 exhibitors from local authorities, government agencies, and the private sector would participate in the forum, showcasing various innovations, technologies and smart solutions that support future urban development.
According to him, SUF 2.0 would also provide opportunities for social entrepreneurs to promote their products and services, while supporting community economic development, social innovation, and expanding market opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“Besides the forum sessions, various side programmes will also be held, including the SUF 2.0 edition of Kuching Car Free Morning, the Friendly Neighbourhood Carnival and Legacy Projects, which highlight urban development initiatives, community empowerment and sustainability,” he said.
He also expressed hope that SUF 2.0 would become a catalyst for closer collaboration between the government, private sector, academic institutions, civil society organisations and the community.
