Malaysia strengthens cultural leadership at SOMCA 2025

Malaysia continues to reinforce its commitment to positioning arts and culture as key drivers of sustainable tourism development and the creative economy, in line with the Malaysia Madani aspirations ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan.

He said this commitment is strengthened through continuous efforts by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) together with ASEAN member states in promoting cultural diversity and artistic excellence, which remain important assets for the region.

According to him, Malaysia’s hosting of the 21st Senior Officials Meeting on Culture and Arts (SOMCA) from Nov 17 to 22, 2025, in Kota Kinabalu reflects the nation’s dedication to advancing regional cultural cooperation.

The meeting also includes several related sessions focusing on strategies for heritage preservation and the development of a more inclusive and resilient cultural ecosystem.

Khairul Firdaus expressed pride in Malaysia’s achievements, particularly in developing the ASEAN Creative Economy Sustainability Framework (ACE) and the Melaka Declaration on Cultural Heritage Value Creation, both of which stem from strong collaboration among ASEAN member states.

He noted that partnerships under the ASEAN Plus Three (APT) framework continue to strengthen cultural diplomacy with dialogue partners, including South Korea.

In line with this, delegates attended the 7th ASEAN–ROK Cultural Heritage Cooperation Working Committee Meeting (AKCHC), which focuses on enhancing heritage preservation, capacity-building efforts and creative collaboration between ASEAN and South Korea.

Beyond official meetings, participants were introduced to Sabah’s rich cultural heritage through a visit to Mari Mari Cultural Village, which showcases live demonstrations of traditional crafts and indigenous lifestyles. Delegates also experienced the natural beauty of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, highlighting Sabah’s strong appeal as a premier ecotourism destination.

Adding depth to the programme, the Borneo Arts and Crafts Bazaar was held from Nov 18 to 20 at Magellan Sutera Resort, featuring traditional crafts, textiles, artworks and creative products by local artisans.

The initiative not only showcases the artistic craftsmanship of Borneo to international delegates but also expands market opportunities for local creative practitioners.

Khairul Firdaus said all outcomes and collaborations forged through SOMCA 2025 will form an important foundation in building a more sustainable, progressive and inclusive cultural landscape for Malaysia.

– ASEAN FOOD & TRAVEL