By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 26: Kuching and Madinah are set to deepen international culinary ties under the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy network following a courtesy call by the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission on Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, with proposed collaborations including a chef exchange programme and a joint culinary publication.
The Saudi delegation, led by Majid Almuhanna, paid the visit as part of efforts to strengthen gastronomy-based cooperation between the two UNESCO-recognised cities, which share a rich culinary heritage and a strong commitment to using food as a platform for cultural exchange and sustainable development.
During the meeting, both sides acknowledged the significance of their respective status as UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy, highlighting how gastronomy can serve as a bridge for international friendship, knowledge sharing and cultural appreciation.
Among the key initiatives discussed was a proposed chef exchange programme between Kuching and Madinah, aimed at fostering professional development, cross-cultural learning and the international promotion of traditional cuisines from both cities.
The discussions also touched on the development of a joint publication tentatively titled “Kuching–Madinah: A Cross-Cultural Culinary Journey”. The book is envisioned as a collaborative effort to document and celebrate the culinary narratives, heritage and food traditions of both cities, while serving as a cultural bridge that reflects diversity, history and shared values through gastronomy.
Wee welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that gastronomy is a powerful medium for strengthening international relations, enhancing cultural understanding and elevating Kuching’s profile as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
He also reaffirmed MBKS’ commitment to supporting meaningful international partnerships that contribute to cultural sustainability and global engagement.
The courtesy call marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Kuching and Madinah, paving the way for long-term cooperation in culinary arts, cultural exchange and creative city development within the UNESCO framework. — DayakDaily
