KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has proposed for a comprehensive approach to strengthen the cultural heritage exhibition gallery at Wisma Melayu Sarawak.
According to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, the Governor had suggested that in-depth research on the Malay community’s heritage be conducted in collaboration with local higher educational institutions, including Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).
This suggestion was shared during a courtesy visit by the Board of Trustees of the Sarawak Malay Cultural Foundation Charitable Trusts (AKYBMS) to Wan Junaidi at Astana Negeri here today (Apr 15).
The delegation, led by Awang Tengah who is the chairman of AKYBMS, briefed Wan Junaidi on the ongoing progress of Wisma Melayu Sarawak construction project, which is taking shape in Petra Jaya.
Wan Junaidi welcomed the positive developments and expressed his hope that the construction work would proceed smoothly and meet the set timeline.
He also extended his appreciation to all those involved in the project for their commitment and efforts in bringing the project to fruition.
The Wisma Melayu Sarawak project, which began on November 8, 2022, is now expected to be completed ahead of schedule, with a new target completion date of May 7, 2025 — seven months earlier than originally planned.
The building’s design, which incorporates elements inspired by the traditional Malay ‘tengkolok’, symbolises the cultural identity of the Malay community in Sarawak.
Upon its completion, Wisma Melayu will serve as an important cultural centre, complete with facilities such as a multipurpose hall, museum, exhibition gallery, office spaces, a cafe and surau.
