Deputy Minister: Creative, cultural industries key to Visit Malaysia 2026 success

MIRI (Feb 22): Local initiatives rooted in culture and creativity can play a significant role in advancing national aspirations while empowering communities and preserving heritage, said Chiew Choon Man.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture said the tourism industry has evolved beyond traditional sightseeing, with contemporary travellers increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, sustainable products and compelling stories.

“The ethnic designs, contemporary artworks, handcrafted textiles and innovative pineapple leaf fibre products showcased this evening embody precisely what the global tourism market values — authenticity anchored in heritage.

“These growing creative and cultural industries contribute directly to the objectives of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) in several key ways,” he said when officiating at the Sarawak Ethnic Contemporary Design event at a hotel here on Saturday night.

Chiew said such events, among others, help enhance and diversify the country’s tourism offerings.

Visitors to Sarawak, he noted, not only come to experience its natural beauty, but also wish to take home something uniquely Malaysian.

“Locally designed fashion, indigenous art and sustainably produced crafts add significant value to our tourism ecosystem and strengthen creative tourism.

“In addition, they reinforce community-based tourism and inclusive growth. By empowering indigenous women entrepreneurs from communities such as the Kelabit, Kenyah, Kayan, Penan, Iban, Lun Bawang and others, we ensure that tourism benefits are distributed at the grassroots level,” he said.

He pointed out that the event was fully aligned with the ministry’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable and people-centred tourism development.

Innovations such as pineapple leaf fibre products, he added, also reflect a strong commitment to sustainability.

“As the global tourism industry increasingly prioritises environmentally responsible practices, Sarawak is well positioned as a destination that values green innovation, ethical production and cultural preservation,” he said.

Chiew stressed that VM2026 is not merely a promotional campaign, but a national movement.

Its success, he said, depends on the active participation of every state, every district and every community, as well as local designers, entrepreneurs and strong collaboration between the government, private sector, non-governmental organisations and local communities.

“This evening’s collaboration demonstrates how local initiatives can contribute meaningfully to national aspirations. What begins here in Miri has the potential to serve as a model for cultural innovation and community empowerment across Malaysia,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rotary Club of Miri Oil Town president Pauline Sagau said in her speech that the event marked the club’s first collaboration with Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Miri (PWOUM).

The event, she said, provided a platform for indigenous women from diverse ethnic groups to showcase their talents with pride and confidence.

“It opens doors to wider markets, broader exposure and greater recognition,” she said.

Also present was PWOUM chairlady Kijan Toynbee.