Kuching bids to host 17th Unesco Creative Cities Network Annual Conference in 2026

File photo for illustration purposes only. Photo credit: Pixabay

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 1: Kuching is eyeing the opportunity to host the 17th Annual Conference of the Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2026.

According to Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, this is Kuching’s first attempt to present itself as a potential host city since joining UCCN in 2021.

“We aim to submit our proposal for consideration this year, and depending on the discussions, we will find out next year if Kuching can host the event.

“Globally, there are around 350 cities in the network, and I hope we can bring positive news for tourism in Kuching,” he said during his 235th ‘ShallWeeTalk’ Facebook live session on Sept 28, which was made from Shanghai, China.

The 17th UCCN Annual Conference, if held in Kuching, will gather representatives from over 350 cities worldwide, offering an opportunity to showcase Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage, particularly in traditional crafts, performing arts, and local cuisine.

Wee emphasised that the event would provide local industries with an international platform to promote creative solutions and innovations.

He also pointed out that securing the bid for this prestigious event would align with Kuching’s long-term vision to position itself as a leading creative city in Southeast Asia.

The conference would be an ideal opportunity to attract global experts, innovators, and policymakers, potentially leading to collaborations that enhance Kuching’s creative economy.

“The global spotlight will be on Kuching, and we are prepared to demonstrate our creative strength and cultural legacy.

“This event can solidify our status as a key player in the creative cities network and provide long-lasting economic and cultural benefits,” said Wee.

On another note, Wee stated that the council is looking into future projects to make Kuching more child-friendly, age-friendly, and smarter, by implementing policies that will improve quality of life for all generations.

“These initiatives are aligned with our long-term strategy to prepare for the needs of an ageing population while encouraging younger generations to play active roles in shaping our society,” he said.

He continued: “Overall, these discussions have opened our eyes to new possibilities. We will continue to share our experiences, including how our food culture can be a creative medium to represent Kuching internationally.

“We’ve been actively networking with other cities, exchanging insights on how to elevate the value of our food and creative industries.” — DayakDaily