KUCHING: The state government is in the process of identifying its old streets that qualify as heritage sites.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said this effort is to protect and further promote Kuching city’s rich cultural legacy.
The chief minister cited the main bazaar as an example, saying as the heartbeat of the old Kuching, it has the potential to be listed under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage.
“Look at the old streets of Georgetown, Penang, many of its streets are recognised by Unesco,” he told reporters during the Gawai Raya Bazaar at India Street here yesterday.
He said the state is currently working with Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) to identify the streets.
“Before it can be listed under Unesco, there are certain conditions and requirements that need to be complied with, and the experts are looking into that,” he said.
The chief minister revealed that to have a proper heritage management in place, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahmah Hamzah is currently studying on amending the Sarawak Cultural Heritage Ordinance.
“Therefore, there is a possibility that we may table a new law on heritage in the coming state legislative assembly (DUN) sitting.
“When the new law comes into force, the submission of Kuching heritage sites would be greater,” he said.
On the Gawai Raya Bazaar organised by DBKU, he said aside from the annual Ramadan Bazaar, this year is unique as it combines both Gawai and Hari Raya.
He said the bazaar strengthens the unity among the people because not only the Dayaks and Muslims patronize it but Sarawakians of every ethnicity do so as well.
The one-month Gawai Raya Bazaar from May 5 to June 5, features more than 100 stalls selling clothes, handicrafts, and food and drinks.
Also present were DBKU mayor Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, and India Street Pedestrian Mall Committee chairman Datuk Wee Hong Seng.
