KUCHING: The recognition earned by the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM), which recently secured the top position in the ‘By Voting’ category on the Museum World Ranking website, is hoped to further elevate Sarawak’s reputation as a cultural tourism hub.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the achievement reflects the state’s commitment to developing a modern and interactive museum experience.
“When we were planning the museum, its concept was quite different from the usual designs. At that time, I was the Minister of Tourism. We visited several countries and looked at various museums.
“We wanted a museum that was interactive, using artificial intelligence (AI) and digital elements,” he said after officiating the opening of the Legacy Hill Hotel here on Wednesday (Nov 5).
He added that certain aspects of the museum’s exhibition layout were influenced by distinctive display concepts observed in France.
“In France, in Paris for example, when you go underground, their exhibitions are displayed in a rather unique way.
“Hopefully, this recognition will help attract visitors from around the world to come to Sarawak and experience what our museum has to offer.”
Abang Johari also revealed that the Natural History Museum, located opposite BCM, is currently undergoing upgrading works.
“Currently, we are also upgrading the Natural History Museum in front of it, which showcases the theories of evolution by Darwin and Wallace.
“It will also highlight what is known as the Sarawak Law, and this will also become a major attraction for the world, especially regarding Wallace’s theories and the biodiversity found in Sarawak.”
The Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) has overtaken the world-renowned Louvre in Paris to claim the top spot in the ‘By Voting’ category on the Museum World Ranking website.
As of 5pm, Wednesday (Nov 5), BCM secured the number one position with 49494 votes, surpassing the Louvre, which garnered 4,059 votes.
The BCM building represents the largest development project in the history of the Sarawak Museum since its establishment in 1891. Officially opened in 2022, it is Malaysia’s first museum to be certified as a Green Building under the Green Building Index (GBI).
The five-storey building consists of climate controlled permanent and temporary exhibitions spaces, Children’s Gallery, function room, auditorium, restaurant and a souvenir shop.
It also houses an Arts and Crafts Gallery which includes activity labs and a dance studio.
Through its theme-based permanent exhibitions, BCM offers immersive and interactive experiences for visitors, incorporating audio-visual technology, modern technology and digital displays that enhance artefact storytelling and visitor engagement.
Recognised as Malaysia’s largest museum and the second-largest in Southeast Asia, BCM has continued to attract strong visitor numbers.
