KUCHING: The United Kingdom (UK) remains committed to strengthening its strategic cooperation with Malaysia, particularly Sarawak, as well as ASEAN countries in key areas such as the economy, trade and tourism.
UK Member of Parliament and the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Indonesia and ASEAN, Naz Shah, said the ASEAN region holds significant importance for the UK and that existing partnerships would continue to be enhanced.
She said Sarawak has immense potential as a world-class cultural tourism destination, thanks to its rich heritage, cultural diversity and unique natural attractions.
“We want to strengthen our ties with Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region. This region is extremely important to the United Kingdom, and we are committed to further enhancing our relationships and cooperation with countries across the region,” she told reporters after visiting the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) here today (June 16).
During the visit, Naz described BCM as a world-class institution that successfully showcases the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak and Borneo to both local and international audiences.
She said the museum not only highlights the history and heritage of Sarawak’s communities, but also serves as an important platform for introducing the state’s identity and cultural diversity to the world.
“This museum truly reflects the culture of this country, the culture of Sarawak and the culture of this region. What is displayed here is remarkable and provides a deeper understanding of the people and heritage of Sarawak,” she said.
According to Naz, her first visit to Sarawak has given her a new perspective on the state’s vast potential in cultural, heritage and nature-based tourism.
She added that Borneo’s unique beauty and Sarawak’s cultural diversity are valuable assets capable of attracting more international visitors, particularly from the United Kingdom.
“This has been a very meaningful experience, and I want to share it with people in the United Kingdom so that more people can learn about and appreciate what Sarawak has to offer,” she said.
Naz believes that greater international exposure to Sarawak’s unique attractions could increase interest among overseas tourists to visit the state, contributing to the growth of both the tourism sector and the local economy.
The visit also reflects the growing international recognition of the Borneo Cultures Museum as a leading cultural tourism icon in Sarawak and a strategic platform for promoting the state’s heritage and identity to a global audience.
Also present was Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
