KUCHING – SUPP Batu Kitang branch secretary Amy Tnay has defended her participation in the 2026 World Mayors Dialogue held in Huangshan, China, stating that her attendance was based on an official invitation from the event organiser and fully complied with international engagement protocols.
The issue came under public scrutiny after questions were raised regarding her eligibility to attend an event traditionally associated with city mayors and senior municipal leaders. The concerns were highlighted by Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong, who questioned Tnay’s role and status in relation to the invitation and her past association with local municipal boards.
In a statement, Tnay clarified that the event was organised by the Huangshan Municipal People’s Government and served as an international platform focusing on urban governance, cultural preservation, tourism development, and cooperation between cities. She stressed that participation was not limited strictly to mayors, but also included academics, public institution representatives, cultural practitioners, and professionals involved in international collaboration.
Tnay explained that her participation was formally approved through a written invitation and that she followed all required procedures during the programme. She also noted that the organisers later issued a letter of appreciation recognising her contribution in strengthening international friendship and cooperation.
She further highlighted her long-standing involvement in Sarawak-China relations, including her previous role as a Padawan Municipal Council councillor, where she supported friendship-city ties with several Chinese cities. She also pointed to her contribution in educational cooperation initiatives that enabled Sarawak students to pursue higher education opportunities in China through scholarship programmes.
According to Tnay, nearly 50 students have benefited from such initiatives, with many graduates returning to contribute to Sarawak’s development. She also said she has been active in promoting Sarawak’s tourism sector and the Sarawak Malaysia My Second Home programme, aiming to showcase the state’s cultural diversity and economic potential internationally.
Addressing concerns over funding, Tnay confirmed that all expenses for the trip were fully sponsored by the host government in China, and neither she nor the Sarawak government bore any cost.
She emphasised that international engagement plays an important role in strengthening cooperation and learning global best practices in governance, public service delivery, and sustainable urban development. She added that such platforms also help promote Sarawak on the global stage.
In response to the criticism, Tnay thanked the public for their attention and oversight, saying she would continue to support Sarawak-China relations through constructive international exchanges.
The exchange has sparked wider discussion on public roles, transparency, and representation in international forums, especially when participation involves individuals outside formal mayoral positions.
