KUCHING: Sarawak will host the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council (ASCC) Meeting set to be held here from April 20 to 25.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the meeting will serve as a crucial platform to strengthen regional cooperation in tourism, heritage, and culture.
He highlighted the significance of the upcoming event during a courtesy visit to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, Petra Jaya, here recently.
“This meeting will play a key role in enhancing collaboration among ASEAN nations in preserving cultural heritage and promoting tourism across the region,” said Tiong.
During the visit, he also presented a replica of the UNESCO Certificate for Niah National Park to the Premier, symbolising global recognition of Sarawak’s natural and cultural heritage.
Following the meeting, Tiong attended the 86th Board of Directors Meeting of the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), where discussions centered on post-flood recovery efforts in Bintulu.
He said the flood disaster that struck late January had a significant impact on the local community.
However, he mentioned that with BDA’s swift action and community support, more than 32,100 tons of flood debris were cleared within two weeks, involving 90 dump trucks, 24 heavy machinery units, and a gotong-royong effort with over 300 volunteers.
“Additionally, the replacement of garbage bins, fogging, larviciding, and disinfection were carried out to ensure the affected areas are clean and safe again.
“I greatly appreciate BDA’s efficiency and the spirit of gotong-royong among the community in ensuring that Bintulu recovers quickly.
“Close cooperation between the federal government, state government, private sector, NGOs, and the local community demonstrates our ability to tackle challenges together and develop Sarawak towards a more sustainable future,” said Tiong.
