THE Sarawak government is revitalising the Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHE) initiative to strengthen the preservation of historical areas and cultural heritage around the city.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the OKSHE programme strategically leverages Kuching’s tangible and intangible heritage, including Kampung Heritage, Historical Monuments Heritage, Historical Business Heritage, and Riverfront Heritage, to develop unique tourism products and services.
“The initiative is part of our broader effort to preserve the city’s history while transforming it into meaningful experiences for visitors,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech in the State Legislative Assembly today.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to document Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity across 34 ethnic groups.
“While the heritage of major ethnic groups is well recorded, traditional practices of other communities require more detailed documentation.
“Dedicated research will be undertaken to safeguard arts, crafts, and cultural practices, ensuring they are shared meaningfully with visitors,” he said.
In addition, Abdul Karim said his ministry is developing several heritage trails, including the Borneo War Memorial Trail, Miri Heritage Trail, and Sibu Heritage Trail, with plans to seek UNESCO recognition for the Fort Trails, which cover 23 Brooke-era forts.
Abdul Karim also noted plans to strengthen tourism in Mukah, with the development of a Mukah or Melanau Heritage Trail to document and showcase local cultural heritage, including Lamin Dana and Sapan Puloh.
“Local crafts such as terendak and batik linut will be registered under Geographical Indications (GI) to protect and promote them as creative local products,” he said.
