Kuching assembled 1,500 ICOMOS delegates from 110 countries

KUCHING, Oct. 17: About 1,500 delegates from 110 countries are expected to attend the 22nd International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Scientific Assembly and Symposium in Kuching, from October 17 to 24.

The President of ICOMOS Malaysia, Faisal Abd. Rahman said Kuching's election as host coincided with the organization's current focus on preserving living heritage, including culture, traditions and ethnic diversity that is still practiced by society.

He said that Sarawak has its own distinctive character because it is rich in cultural heritage which continues to be preserved and practiced in everyday life.

"ICOMOS now talks a lot about living heritage and not just monumental heritage like the old fortress. Sarawak has a cultural and ethnic diversity that makes Kuching an ideal location to discuss this matter", he said.

He said this when he met at a dinner to welcome the ICOMOS Advisory Committee and Board of Directors here, last night.

The symposium at the Borneo Kuching Convention Centre (BCCK) will serve as an international forum for discussion on heritage conservation challenges, including the effects of geopolitical conflict.

Faisal said that Sarawak also has world-recognized natural treasures, including Mount Mulu National Park and Niah National Park Cave Complex, which are both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The gathering is expected to contribute to the formation of a declaration as well as international heritage conservation goals, in addition to raising awareness among local communities about the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage.

"This visit is also expected to strengthen Sarawak's position as a heritage tourism destination", he said. -TVS