By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 19: With conflicts and geopolitical tensions on the rise, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing has called for stronger grassroots ties across borders, saying people-to-people exchanges remain one of the most effective ways to build trust and promote peace.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Asia Pacific Lions Leaders Summit 2026 in Sibu today, he said non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as Lions Clubs International play an important role in strengthening international understanding through volunteerism, humanitarian service, cultural exchanges and tourism.
“The world today faces many conflicts, wars and tensions, with many places experiencing uncertainty.
“Through cultural exchanges, tourism, service, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, as well as disaster relief and rescue efforts, we can strengthen people-to-people interaction and help communities build resilience,” he said.
He added that greater interaction among people of different countries, cultures and backgrounds helps reduce misunderstandings while strengthening trust, cooperation, peace and harmony.
At the same event, Tiong announced a RM50,000 contribution to support the Asia Pacific Lions Leaders Summit 2026 and expressed hope the Lions movement would continue organising more international events to foster understanding among people of different races and cultures.
The summit brought together more than 700 Lions leaders and members from across the Asia-Pacific under the theme “Uniting Leaders, Inspiring Service”.
He said Malaysia welcomes international gatherings as they promote cultural exchange, strengthen professional cooperation and generate benefits for tourism, hospitality, local businesses and the wider economy.
The minister also encouraged international delegates to experience Sarawak’s cultural diversity and local cuisine before returning home as ambassadors for the State and Malaysia. — DayakDaily
