KUCHING: The Friendship Diplomacy will take place from 21 to 23 May 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), serving as a strategic platform that combines various industries including arts, technology, music, crafts and trade.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the event is not just an ordinary festival, but instead serves as an important platform for local and international industry players to showcase their respective expertise.

According to him, participation also involves industry players from Indonesia and Singapore, opening up opportunities for cross-border cooperation and strengthening creative industry networks at the regional level.

“This is not just about a festival, but a platform that allows various industries to showcase what they have, not only for local players, but also involving major players from Indonesia and Singapore,” he said in a press conference here on Thursday.

The event targets the participation of international investors, regional buyers and creative professionals, with an expected impact of boosting the tourism sector in line with the target of five million visitor arrivals to Sarawak.

In addition, it is also expected to generate trade that empowers small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local artisans, alongside strengthening diplomatic relations through cross-border creative economy.

Also present were MTCP Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan, MTCP Permanent Secretary Morshidi Fredrick and Festival Director of The Friendship Diplomacy Andy Eric Manuhutu. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Grace John Lee
Photo: Sarah Nicole
Translator: Nerissa Sia