KK's UNESCO Literature City verdict by October
KOTA KINABALU (July 24): The decision on Kota Kinabalu's designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Literature by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is expected to be announced by October this year.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Ariffin Mohd Arif stated that if approved, Kota Kinabalu would become the 60th UNESCO City of Literature and the second in Southeast Asia after Jakarta's recognition in 2021.
'Our city is currently being evaluated by UNESCO. Barring any obstacles, the decision on Kota Kinabalu's status as a UNESCO City of Literature is expected soon, potentially by October this year.
'To support Kota Kinabalu's bid, we must actively organize literary activities, especially through non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The government has allocated funds for NGOs to conduct seminars, festivals, literary gatherings, and strengthen local book publishing.
'There is a need to increase publications of literary works, whether by government bodies or NGOs,' he said during his speech at the 'Night of Manifestation Towards Kota Kinabalu's Recognition as a UNESCO City of Literature' and the 2025 Language and Literature Assistance Contribution (SELASIH) ceremony here yesterday.
As the State Executive Councillor for Education, he explained that SELASIH contributions are a government initiative to support literary, language and writing associations through financial aid from the Sabah state government.
'Last year, the government granted RM156,000 to 15 applicant associations. As of July this year, 20 associations have applied and are listed to receive SELASIH aid, involving an allocation of RM220,000.'
He expressed hope that the contributions would invigorate literary activities in Kota Kinabalu and bolster its UNESCO bid.
Also present were Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah, Deputy State Secretary for Special Tasks Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim, Director of the Institute of Language and Literature Jennitah Noordin, and CEO of the Sabah Development Institute Associate Professor Datuk Ts. Dr. Ramzah Dambul.
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