Future Collaboration Effort on Singapore Cultural Diplomacy Project with UNIMAS, Sarawak Heritage Society, Singapore Heritage Society and Singapore International Foundation

Written by : Dr Raja Nur Syaheeza bin Raja Mohd Yazit

In a bid to foster cultural exchange and preservation, a pioneering project is set to unfold, explore and archive the rich heritage of Sarawak. The collaboration involves Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), the Sarawak Heritage Society (SaHS), the Singapore Heritage Society (SiHS), and the Singapore International Foundation (SIF). This 2.5-year initiative promises to be a landmark endeavor in cultural diplomacy, with significant implications for sustainable development and international relations.

At the heart of this project is the comprehensive documentation and archiving of Sarawak’s diverse heritage. The scope of the project includes a broad array of cultural components such as traditional arts, economic practices, architectural landmarks, and various elements that define Sarawak’s unique identity. By focusing on these aspects, the project aims to preserve valuable cultural knowledge and promote cross-cultural understanding between Singapore and Sarawak.

The project will feature a series of inbound and outbound programs, utilizing its local expertise and academic resources to document and study the region’s heritage. This will involve field research, interviews with local experts and community leaders, and the collection of artifacts and oral histories, where SaHS will provide crucial support in accessing local knowledge and ensuring the authenticity and relevance of the data collected.

Other parties such as SiHS will contribute its expertise in heritage preservation and cultural studies, while the SIF will facilitate international cooperation and ensure the project aligns with Singapore’s cultural diplomacy objectives. The potential involvement of the National University of Singapore (NUS) further enhances the project’s academic depth, providing additional research capabilities and fostering academic exchanges.

A critical aspect of this project is its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), which emphasizes the importance of protecting and safeguarding cultural and natural heritage. Additionally, the initiative contributes to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), demonstrating how cross-border collaborations can effectively address global challenges and enhance mutual understanding. Conversely, Sarawak’s researchers and practitioners will have opportunities to visit Singapore, engaging in collaborative workshops and seminars that explore comparative heritage practices and strategies.

In essence, this cultural diplomacy project stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration in the realm of heritage preservation. It not only seeks to document and safeguard Sarawak’s rich cultural tapestry but also aims to build lasting connections between Singapore and Sarawak. This possible collaborative effort will undoubtedly offer valuable insights and foster deeper cultural appreciation, paving the way for more robust and meaningful international partnerships in the future.