KUCHING – A courtesy visit to Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South, was made on 26th January by the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission headed by Mr Majid Almuhanna as part of a collaboration for international culinary promotion between Madinah and Kuching.
The meeting emphasized how both cities share the common identity of belonging to the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy network and that through this platform, they could show solidarity within an industry where gastronomy would be a vehicle for cultural diplomacy and as well sustainable development.
Other initiatives that were touched on included a chef exchange programme between Kuching and Madinah.
The initiative hopes to nurture professional development, promote cross-cultural education and push traditional cuisines from the pair of cities onto the world stage.
The exchange aims to enhance culinary diplomacy and the appreciation of the international community for different food cultures.
Another important project which were mentioned during the meeting was a joint publication, namely the “Kuching–Madinah: A Cross-Cultural Culinary Journey”.
The book will be an account of the culinary stories, culture and food customs in both cities, a cultural bridge that celebrates diversity, history and common interests through its recipes.
Dato Wee Cordially received the delegation and expressed his gratitude for the visit. He stressed that food is a great connector in fostering international friendship, sharing about cultures and strengthen Kuching’s position as the Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy.
He also reiterated the Kuching South City Council’s firm commitment to help spur symbiotic collaborations that are able to further support the cultural sustainability and global engagement.
The courtesy call is a major milestone in Kuching-Madinah relationship building efforts. It provides the opportunity for long-term culinary and artistic exchange between cities through UNESCO.
It is hoped that both cities will increase their cooperation, and together play a leading part in the promotion of gastronomy as an agent for cultural diplomacy and sustainable development.
