KUCHING: The Sarawak Museum Department (JMS) is set to showcase the state's rich history and cultural heritage on the international stage by participating in the 22nd General Assembly and Scientific Symposium of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) this coming October.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, stated that the gathering scheduled to take place from 17 to 24 October, will bring together over 1,500 heritage experts and policymakers from 110 countries.

According to him, JMS' participation in this world-class event serves as a vital platform to promote Sarawak's rich cultural heritage to the international community.

“This world-class gathering, uniting over 1,500 heritage experts and policymakers from 110 countries, serves as an excellent platform to promote Malaysia's cultural heritage,” he said.

He said this when speaking during the JMS Appreciation Night 2026 here on Sunday.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim added that JMS is also seizing the opportunity to showcase the uniqueness of Sarawak's heritage through four special programmes organised in conjunction with the conference.

These programmes include ‘Night at the Museum: Sarawak Authentic Gastronomy’, ‘Sarawak Museum Talk’, ‘Sarawak Museum Heritage Walk’ and tour guide services at heritage sites.

“These initiatives will highlight local culinary uniqueness, history, and arts and culture to international visitors,” he said.

In a related development, he noted that JMS is also strengthening efforts to preserve and promote the state's heritage through various educational, promotional, and community engagement programmes.

Among these is the Fort Expedition Tour programme, themed ‘Exploring Heritage and History’ which aims to provide historical insights to the younger generation and local communities regarding Fort Alice in Sri Aman, Fort Lily in Betong, Fort Brooke in Julau and Fort Emma in Kanowit.

The programme will kick off at Fort Lily, Betong, in conjunction with the Sarawakku Sayang event taking place from 25 to 27 September.

Also present were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Senator Dato Ahmad Ibrahim and JMS Director Anielia Siam. -UKASnews