KUCHING: Sarawak’s cultural diversity can be turned into an important economic asset for the tourism industry, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
“In Sarawak, each community has their own unique cultural heritage to preserve and to showcase to the outside world.
“Like other ethnic groups in Malaysia, the Dayak community takes immense pride in our cultural heritage and roots,” he said.
Uggah who is also Dayak Cultural Foundation (DCF) chairman was speaking at the Iban Cultural Heritage Symposium and Expo 2024 at the Dayak Cultural Foundation Headquarters on today.
The symposium aims to showcase the wealth and diversity of Iban cultural heritage and encourage a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their heritage among the community.
“We want to provide a platform for dialogues and exchanges of ideas on contemporary cultural issues and challenges.
“We also aim to showcase the wealth and diversity of Iban cultural heritage and to encourage a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their heritage,” he said.
Uggah hoped to facilitate collaboration and networking opportunities among scholars, artists and cultural practitioners.
“We also want to raise awareness among policymakers and stakeholders about the need to protect, preserve and sustain cultural heritage.
“This Symposium is a celebration of sorts for our cultural diversity in Sarawak. The multi-ethnic society that we have in Sarawak is a unique asset that we can capitalize on for the state to grow and develop,” he said.
The symposium was attended by some 200 people comprising politicians, senior civil servants and non – governmental organisations (NGO) leaders from throughout the state.
Themed “Reta Tengkira Lanting Bansa” (Our heritage, Our Identity), the symposium will leverage on modern technology in promoting Dayak cultural heritage especially among the younger generation.
“Engaging the younger generation is essential for its sustainability. This is to ensure that cultural heritage remains a vibrant and integral part of the younger generation’s lives now and in the future,”Uggah said.
