Padungan Heritage Murals launched, celebrating 100 years of history
- BT
- 55 minutes ago
- 2 min read
KUCHING, 12 February 2026: Earlier today, the Padungan Heritage Murals, comprising a total of 7 distinctive works of arts by artist Leonard Siaw, were launched by the Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The launching was also organised in celebration of a hundred years of shared memories that have shaped Padungan into one of Kuching’s most distinctive heritage areas.
Organised by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), the initiative is part of efforts undertaken by the council to further protect Padungan’s heritage. MBKS is also in the process of setting up the Padungan Heritage Conservation Task Force, a dedicated platform to study, coordinate and guide conservation efforts in the historic area.
“Heritage is not something we inherit automatically. It is something we must actively protect, document and pass on. I would also like to commend Leonard Siaw for his outstanding work in bringing these stories to life through art. He has not merely painted murals, but has translated history into visual narratives that speak to the heart,” said the Minister.
“May these murals continue to inspire pride, attract visitors and remind us all that heritage, when respected and reimagined through creativity, becomes a powerful force for unity and sustainable development.”
Also in attendance at today’s launching, MBKS Mayor, Dato Wee Hong Seng, Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), Morshidi Fredrick and MTCP Permanent Secretary Special Administrative Officer, Datu Sherrina binti Hussaini.
