KUCHING – The Kuching South–Guro Student Exchange Programme has once again strengthened international ties, with 12 students from Kuching South travelling to Guro, South Korea, from 30 March to 4 April 2026.
The initiative reflects the ongoing collaboration between the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and Guro City under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering youth development and cultural learning.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng emphasised that the programme provides young people with a valuable opportunity to broaden their horizons, build friendships across borders, and gain deeper appreciation of cultural diversity.
“This programme is more than just a visit. It is a meaningful learning experience that allows our students to immerse themselves in a different culture, interact with their peers and represent Kuching South on an international stage,” he said.
The exchange operates on an alternating yearly basis, with students from Guro visiting Kuching South one year, followed by Kuching South students travelling to Guro the next. This arrangement ensures sustained engagement and long-term partnership between the two cities.
During their stay, the Kuching South delegation will participate in several key activities, including a courtesy call with the Mayor of Guro, youth interaction sessions at the Cheonwangdong Youth Cultural Center, and exposure to local community activities and educational experiences. These programmes are designed to deepen cultural understanding and strengthen city-to-city relations.
Dato Wee highlighted that the initiative aligns with MBKS’s commitment under the UNICEF Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI), where Kuching South is recognised as a candidate city.
He noted that the exchange supports the vision of creating opportunities for children and youth to learn, grow, and participate beyond borders, nurturing globally aware and socially responsible citizens.
The 12 participating students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, stating: “We are truly grateful to Dato Wee and MBKS for giving us this opportunity to experience a different culture, learn beyond the classroom, and represent Kuching South. This will be a meaningful and unforgettable journey for all of us.”
The Kuching South–Guro partnership continues to serve as a valuable platform for strengthening international cooperation, empowering the next generation through cultural exchange, and reinforcing the importance of global friendship in today’s interconnected world.
