Natural and Cultural Harmony Showcases Unique Charm — Sarawak Shares the Soul of Borneo with the World

(Kuching, 20th) Sarawak hopes to let the world see and understand the “soul” that shapes Sarawak’s unique character, showcasing a lifestyle of harmonious coexistence through the close connections between people and nature, culture, cuisine, and social life.

Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, Premier of Sarawak, pointed out that the ‘Soul of Borneo’ concept is closely related to nature since Sarawak is located on the island of Borneo, with 62% of its land still covered by forests.

He said that Sarawak continues to protect its tropical rainforests, as there is a close link between the forests and the cultures of the state’s various ethnic groups.

“Our culture is closely related to nature. That is why many of the hand movements in our dances are very similar, as nature and birds play important roles in our lives.”

“Our existence is inseparable from nature, and our culture reflects the connection between people and the natural world.”

Abang Johari made these remarks in his speech last night at the ‘Soul of Borneo’ dinner held during the 49th PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) Travel Mart at a local hotel.

He said the connection between people and nature has also shaped Sarawak’s harmonious way of life. Despite its ethnic and cultural diversity, the people of Sarawak live together in harmony like one big family.

At the same time, he pointed out that the idea of living in harmony with nature is also reflected in Sarawak’s environmentally oriented economic policies.

“While the world faces heatwaves, carbon emissions and rising temperatures, Sarawak has managed to maintain its status as a carbon-negative state.”

“We produce more oxygen than we emit carbon. That is why we are the ‘Soul of Borneo’, and also the ‘Soul of Nature’. Because we are not only able to contribute to the health of natural landscapes, but also promote human health.”

“This not only forms the basis of our social policies, but is also an important pillar of our economic policies.”

Abang Johari said that under this development philosophy, Sarawak has received multiple UNESCO recognitions through sites such as Mulu National Park, Niah National Park, Kuching being named UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and Kuching Delta Geopark.

He said these achievements demonstrate how nature, culture, cuisine, and history interweave to collectively shape Sarawak’s unique identity.

“All of this is what we hope to share with the world.”

Attendees included Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim, Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Sebastian Ting, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Dennis Ngau, PATA Chairman Henry Oh, Permanent Secretary of Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Mohdhi Frederick, as well as Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board Datuk Seri Sharzede Dr.