KUCHING – While forestry professionals convened to discuss sustainable environmental management at the 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference, their accompanying partners embarked on a carefully curated three-day cultural and educational itinerary across the state capital.
Running from 13 to 15 July 2026, the spouse programme offered a comprehensive introduction to Sarawak’s rich natural heritage and vibrant traditions, running parallel to the main summit’s critical policy discussions.
The 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference was held under the overarching theme of “Forests as Catalyst for a Green Economy”
Delegates from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak gathered to adopt forward-looking resolutions aimed at strengthening sustainable forest management across the nation
As the host state, Sarawak has been actively positioning itself as a global model for green economic development, a vision articulated by the state Premier during the conference’s opening proceedings
Against this backdrop of high-level environmental discourse, the spouse initiative was spearheaded by Datin Hajah Raden Asmawati binti Hj Raden Mahmud, spouse of the Director of Forests Sarawak, who served as the head of the delegation.
She was supported by a dedicated local hosting committee. This included Datin Hajah Hamsiah binti Hj Sulai, wife of the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, alongside Datin Hajah Noridah binti Adenan, spouse of the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation General Manager.
Hajah Azizah binti Abdillah, wife of the Deputy Director of the Forest Department Sarawak, also played a pivotal role in guiding the visiting guests.
The programme welcomed distinguished attendees from across the federation, notably Datin Rosita S P Limy, wife of the Technical Advisor on Forestry to the Chief Minister of Sabah.
Their participation highlighted the strong inter-state camaraderie that characterises such national gatherings, fostering informal networking opportunities that often complement formal diplomatic and professional exchanges.
The itinerary commenced with a visit to the renowned Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, providing an intimate glimpse into the state’s celebrated conservation efforts and iconic native fauna.
Following this ecological immersion, the delegation proceeded to the Borneo Cultures Museum for an enlightening historical tour, capped by a communal luncheon.
The inaugural day concluded with the delegates reuniting at the Pullman Hotel Kuching for the conference’s official welcoming dinner, an elegant heritage-themed affair where attendees showcased traditional Batik attire.
On the second day, the focus shifted toward cultural immersion. The group visited the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum that vividly illustrates the diverse ethnic traditions of the region, where they also enjoyed a locally inspired lunch.
The afternoon featured an exclusive guided tour of the JUMA’ANI Pavilion, a venue dedicated to showcasing Sarawak’s premium heritage textiles and intricate weaving techniques.
The day’s activities culminated in a memorable photographic session set against the striking architectural backdrop of Dataran Ibu Pertiwi.
The final day was dedicated to local commerce and culinary delights. Participants explored Kuching’s famed confectionery scene at Kek Lapis Warisan, sampling the region’s iconic layered cakes.
This was followed by a leisurely shopping excursion through the historic Main Bazaar and India Street, where guests sourced unique indigenous handicrafts.
A traditional midday meal at Dapur Melanau provided a fitting gastronomic conclusion to the daytime activities.
The comprehensive programme officially drew to a close as the spouses rejoined the primary conference delegates for the closing dinner at the Pullman Hotel.
The evening featured a high-energy, rock-themed celebration, marking a vibrant end to the three-day summit.
The Forest Department Sarawak has expressed profound gratitude to Datin Hajah Raden Asmawati and the entire hosting committee for their meticulous planning.
The success of this parallel programme underscores the department’s holistic approach to hospitality, ensuring that all attendees experience the warmth and cultural depth of the region.
By integrating cultural tourism with professional gatherings, Sarawak continues to demonstrate its capacity to host large-scale national events with exceptional grace.
Such initiatives not only foster stronger interpersonal bonds among forestry professionals nationwide but also promote the state’s rich cultural assets to a highly influential audience.
The seamless execution of this itinerary reflects a broader commitment to showcasing Sarawak as a premier destination for both professional discourse and cultural exploration.
