KUCHING – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is advancing cultural and tourism collaboration with China’s Henan Province, proposing joint food festivals, cultural exhibitions, and student exchange programmes to strengthen people-to-people bonds.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng outlined these initiatives while delivering a keynote address at the 15th China Henan International Investment and Trade Fair (CHIITF) in Zhengzhou.
He represented Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the event, which gathered leaders and delegates from 28 countries.
Highlighting Kuching’s strategic advantages, Wee emphasised the city’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and a growing hub for trade and education.
He pointed to significant mutual benefits in trade and manufacturing, where Henan’s industrial capacity and logistics infrastructure could synergise with Sarawak’s natural resources and access to ASEAN markets.
Collaboration in sectors such as clean energy technology, the digital economy, and agro-processing was also highlighted, aligning with Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030.
The mayor welcomed the expansion of the renowned Henan-based beverage chain, Mixue, into Kuching’s food and beverage scene. Several outlets have already been established, creating local employment.
Wee revealed that discussions are underway to explore establishing Mixue’s Southeast Asia logistics office in Kuching, a move that would solidify the city’s role as a regional distribution hub.
MBKS reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Zhengzhou and Henan Province, exploring further cooperation in industrial technology, digital transformation, and cultural tourism within the Belt and Road Initiative framework.
This engagement underscores Kuching’s proactive approach to forging global partnerships for economic growth and sustainable development.
