KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus and Fudan University, China, have launched the Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum 2024, a dynamic event scheduled to take place from 1 to 5 October 2024 in Kuching.
The launch event was held at Swinburne Sarawak on 31 May 2024 and officiated by YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak.
The Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum 2024 aims to provide a platform for young people from across Asia to share best practices in cultural heritage protection and utilisation, promote the sustainable development of cultural heritage and strengthen cultural exchanges.
The forum will welcome more than 100 university students from 20 countries, who will present case studies on the application of local and traditional knowledge in the conservation and utilisation of cultural heritage in their everyday environments.
Participants will also have the opportunity to learn from expert conservators and engage with local communities through cultural immersions and nature excursions.
The forum is supported by the China Cultural Heritage Foundation and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.
YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian (third right) officially launches the Asian Cultural Heritage Youth Forum 2024.
YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim emphasised the importance of collaboration between the two institutions.
“This forum commemorates the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Malaysia and China, marking a significant milestone in our shared history,” he said.
“I urge both Swinburne Sarawak and Fudan University to leverage each other’s experience and expertise in various fields to promote sustainable development. Such collaborations are vital in addressing global challenges and fostering innovation and growth in our respective countries,” he added.
Swinburne Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho said, “Swinburne Sarawak is committed to fostering a deep appreciation for cultural heritage among the youth.
“By promoting the conservation of cultural heritage, we not only preserve our history but also inspire future generations to value and protect their cultural identities. This forum provides a unique opportunity for young people to learn, share and collaborate on sustainable practices that benefit their communities and the world,” he said.
In conjunction with the launch, both universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to mark their commitment to fostering academic and research excellence through this partnership.
Professor Huang Yang (front row, right) and Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho (front row, left) hold up the signed MoU as Deputy Premier of Sarawak YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian (centre) and others look on.
Signing the MoU on behalf of Swinburne Sarawak was Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho while Fudan University was represented by Professor Huang Yang, Dean of Department of History.
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