MELAKA – The Sarawak Protocol, Ceremony and Event Management Unit (UPPANS) has strengthened its knowledge of cultural and event management practices through a working visit to Melaka, focusing on heritage institutions and cultural agencies.
The 11-member delegation, led by UPPANS Director Datu Hamdan Sharbini, visited the Melaka Department of National Culture and Arts (JKKN) in Ayer Keroh and the Proclamation of Independence Memorial in Banda Hilir on Thursday.
At JKKN Melaka, the team was welcomed by Director Ezlina Alias, Deputy Director Fiza Farikha Md. Yassin, and agency staff.
During a briefing session, delegates were introduced to JKKN’s responsibilities, including the implementation of the National Cultural Policy 2021, management of cultural programmes, and Melaka’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage City.
Both sides exchanged views on cultural management and explored opportunities for collaboration in event organisation, heritage promotion and institutional cooperation.
The visit also included a tour of JKKN facilities such as the seminar room, Panggung Seri Auditorium, and dance studio.
Delegates were treated to cultural performances representing three of Melaka’s diverse communities – Melayu Melaka, Chetti and Portuguese – showcasing the state’s multicultural heritage.
The programme continued with a courtesy visit to the Proclamation of Independence Memorial, where the delegation was received by Melaka State Archivist Mohd Saleh Alias and staff from the National Archives of Malaysia Melaka.
Delegates were briefed on the organisational structure and functions of the National Archives, as well as the history of the Memorial’s establishment.
They toured exhibitions highlighting Malaysia’s independence journey, the formation of the nation, and archival materials documenting key historical milestones.
The working visit served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and institutional networking, reinforcing UPPANS’ commitment to enhancing event management standards in Sarawak.
Officials noted that exposure to Melaka’s cultural and heritage institutions would help UPPANS refine its approaches to protocol, ceremony and event organisation, while fostering stronger ties with national cultural agencies.
The initiative reflects Sarawak’s broader aim of strengthening cultural governance and ensuring that event management practices align with international standards, particularly in promoting heritage and community identity.
