KUCHING: Kuching continues its creative gastronomy agenda at both national and international levels since its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in November 2021.

According to Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, among others, the city is hosting the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy Annual Cluster Meeting from 3 to 7 August 2026.

“Besides local and national participants, the event is expected to gather 200 international participants from around the world.

“It will be a platform for culinary exchange, knowledge sharing and industry collaboration,” he said during his ministerial winding-up session at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Tuesday.

At the same time, Dato Sri Abdul Karim said Sarawak continues to strengthen its international presence through participation in global culinary platforms and competitions.

He said Sarawakian chefs and industry players have achieved strong recognition at events such as the Worldchefs-endorsed Global Chef Challenge and the MasterChef of Foodex 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City early this year.

“These achievements highlight Sarawak’s strength in preserving gastronomy tradition while reinforcing Kuching’s growing position as a leading gastronomy hub,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Minister noted that the cruise industry also presents a significant and growing opportunity for the state’s tourism sector, offering substantial economic benefits as well as fostering inclusive social impact and sustainable development.

In particular, he said international cruise operator StarDream Cruise has shown an interest in its plan to launch a Sarawak Cruise package and include the state’s ports into its Southeast Asia cruise itineraries.

“For this purpose, the Ministry (MTCP) in collaboration with Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) are pursuing the matter with Singapore Tourism Board and Marina Bay Cruise Centre, Singapore,” he said. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Suhaila AW