Latest news with #ASCC)CouncilMeeting
Barnama
25-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
AirBorneo Carries Sarawak's Wish For Better ASEAN Connectivity
KUCHING, April 25 (Bernama) -- Sarawak's very own airline, AirBorneo, which is scheduled to commence operation next year, carries the state's aspiration to enhance regional connectivity among the ASEAN nations, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said. He said the move to run its own airline is one of the state's efforts to strengthen regional collaboration with fellow ASEAN members, particularly to boost trade, investment, and tourism by leveraging its strategic location, abundant resources, and cultural ties to drive regional growth and uplift livelihoods. 'In line with our aspirations for regional connectivity, Sarawak is proud to announce the upcoming launch of our airline, AirBorneo, scheduled to commence operations in 2026,' he said in his speech at the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting's gala dinner here last night. The text of the speech was read out by his deputy, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. Abang Johari also said that their commitment to enhance air connectivity would make travelling and doing business with major and capital cities across ASEAN faster and easier. He said that the development of a new international airport, and also a deep-sea port in Tanjung Embang, Kota Samarahan, would transform Sarawak into a regional aviation and marine hub. This will improve air and sea connectivity while increasing the state's appeal to the business community, investors and tourists, he added. Abang Johari said Sarawak could also play a vital role in strengthening the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), which is a subregional initiative to complement ASEAN's broader economic integration agenda. 'Our shared land borders with Brunei Darussalam and Kalimantan, Indonesia, open doors for cross-border economic development through strategic initiatives.
Barnama
24-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
ASEAN's Arts And Cultural Heritage Offers Immense Potential, Says Tiong
KUCHING, April 24 (Bernama) -- The rich arts and cultural heritage of ASEAN countries offer immense potential for further growth, said Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He said in recent years, ASEAN has not only advanced economically but also witnessed a growing recognition of its arts and cultural heritage. This unique heritage has emerged as one of the most promising avenues for driving inclusive growth, creating jobs, empowering local communities, and preserving the grouping's rich traditions, he noted. 'From ancient crafts to contemporary art, from indigenous festivals to culinary legacies — our cultural assets are living expressions of our identity and shared history,' he said in his speech during the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting opening ceremony here, today. Tiong said by strengthening cross border collaborations, curating immersive arts and cultural experiences and integrating storytelling into tourism strategies, ASEAN can offer the world something truly unique. 'Together, let us champion a tourism model that not only attracts visitors but also uplifts the soul of our nations and sustains our arts and cultural legacies for generations to come. 'Our journey ahead requires renewed commitment and cooperation as we continue to face global challenges under our pillar, which includes public health crises, climate change, sudden shifts in international affairs and economic disparities and social welfare,' he said. The ongoing ASCC Council Meeting is a biannual ministerial-level gathering focused on addressing key socio-cultural issues across the ASEAN region. This year's meeting, from April 22 to 26, welcomed representatives from the ASEAN fraternity, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.
Barnama
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
'Bekikis Bulu Betis' Wows ASEAN Delegates, Steals The Show At ASCC Gala Dinner
KUCHING, April 23 (Bernama) -- The lively tune of 'Bekikis Bulu Betis' captivated and charmed ASEAN delegates during a gala dinner held in conjunction with the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting here tonight. With powerhouse vocals by acclaimed singer Dayang Nurfaizah, accompanied by traditional dancers, the energetic performance enlivened the evening and highlighted the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Sarawak's diverse communities. Delegates from all 11 ASEAN member countries appeared delighted by the performance, with several joining in the dance, moving to the rhythm - an enthusiastic embrace of the local culture.
