KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) has reaffirmed its support for community-led initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
Permanent Secretary Morshidi Fredrick said the ministry welcomed workshops organised by communities across the state to safeguard their cultural legacy.
He said Sarawak is home to more than 30 ethnic groups, each possessing its own unique customs, traditions and identity.
“Despite our diversity, Sarawakians of all races continue to live together peacefully and harmoniously, demonstrating a high level of tolerance and mutual respect,” he said at the Bidayuh Cultural Heritage Workshop held at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) headquarters here today.
The text of his speech was read by the ministry’s Head of Arts, Culture and Heritage section, Rickson Jauk.
Morshidi described this spirit of “Unity in Diversity” as the cornerstone of Sarawak’s development and progress, adding that it is the collective responsibility of all Sarawakians, regardless of race or religion, to preserve this social fabric.
He said programmes such as the Bidayuh Cultural Heritage Workshop play an important role in keeping the state’s diverse cultural traditions alive while fostering greater appreciation among younger generations.
Beyond cultural preservation, Morshidi noted that Sarawak’s rich heritage has become a major tourism asset, attracting visitors eager to experience the state’s vibrant festivals, traditional dances, local cuisine and handicrafts.
He said cultural tourism continues to generate economic opportunities for local communities and remains an important component of the state’s tourism industry.
He added that MTCP continues to promote Sarawak through its Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food and Festival (CANFF) tourism branding, highlighting the state’s diverse cultural and natural attractions to both domestic and international visitors.
Morshidi also commended DBNA for taking the initiative to organise the workshop, describing it as a meaningful effort to conserve, preserve and showcase Bidayuh heritage through the proposed Bidayuh Heritage Gallery.
Meanwhile, MTCP has approved RM25,000 for DBNA to organise the workshop.
