KUCHING: Kuching has officially joined the global WordPress ecosystem following the approval of the Kuching WordPress Meetup under the WordPress Meetup Program this month.
The approval marks the launch of Kuching’s first recognised local chapter of the international WordPress community, connecting local users with a worldwide open-source network.
“WordPress is powerful because it lowers the barriers to building on the web and allows anyone to create something meaningful without a technical background,” said organiser James Hunt.
“WordPress is a free, open-source platform used to build websites, blogs and online stores, and currently powers more than 40 per cent of websites worldwide.
“Despite its widespread adoption by freelancers, businesses, media organisations and governments, WordPress is rarely taught through formal education systems,” he added.
He said the Kuching WordPress Meetup aims to bridge that gap by providing a free, community-led space focused on practical, in-demand digital skills.
“The idea for the meetup was developed during WordCamp Malaysia, a national WordPress conference held at Sunway University earlier this month.
“The event brought together more than 350 WordPress users and professionals from across the country, where the Kuching chapter received formal approval and announcement,”he said.
To support the launch, organisers have introduced a dedicated community website, wpkch.com, serving as a central hub for announcements, updates and future events.
He said that the website currently features a public survey inviting feedback on topics, event days, venues, sponsorship opportunities, and participation as organisers or speakers.
“As with WordPress itself, the meetup will always be free to attend, volunteer-run, and governed by the official WordPress Code of Conduct.
“The community welcomes participants ranging from complete beginners to experienced professionals, while emphasising a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment,”he said.
The meetup is organised by Hunt, an entrepreneur and software engineer who recently relocated to Kuching after years of international experience.
Hunt has used WordPress since 2008, organised the Chiang Mai WordPress Meetup for two years, and previously worked with The Linux Foundation.
He said the Kuching meetup is also relevant to students and those interested in web development, marketing and artificial intelligence technologies.
The Kuching WordPress Meetup joins established Malaysian communities in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, Ipoh and Miri, strengthening nationwide collaboration.
The first in-person Kuching meetup is planned for early 2026, with organisers currently welcoming interest from venues, speakers, sponsors and volunteers.
