Sarawak, Uzbekistan partner up on heritage, tourism, creative industry

Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (right) and Khayrullo Bozarov at a signing ceremony of an MoU on Mutual Cooperation between Sarawak and the Fergana Region of Uzbekistan.

KUCHING, 22 September 2025 – Sarawak has officially entered into a new international partnership with the Fergana Region of Uzbekistan. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Mutual Cooperation was signed today by Sarawak’s Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Governor of the Fergana Region, Khayrullo Bozarov. The agreement lays the foundation for a five-year partnership focused on heritage, arts, crafts, tourism, and the creative industry.

“Both regions, rich in tradition and known for their artisanal excellence, will work together to host joint festivals, cultural showcases, and creative exchanges that bring their communities closer and open new doors for collaboration. This partnership puts Sarawak and Fergana on the world stage. By celebrating heritage and creativity together, we turn tradition into opportunity,” said Karim.

Bozarov, meanwhile, highlighted the shared values between the two regions, saying: “Fergana and Sarawak share a spirit of craftsmanship and culture. This MOU will let us showcase that strength globally while creating new creative ventures.”

The collaboration will see artisans, performers, and creative entrepreneurs from Sarawak and Fergana co-create projects, share skills, and explore new markets together. From textile traditions and woodcraft to music, dance, and contemporary design, the partnership aims to foster mutual learning and elevate the visibility of both regions on the global cultural map. The MOU also supports tourism development, with plans to promote each region’s cultural assets through curated travel experiences and cross-promotional campaigns.

The agreement will remain in force for five years, with the possibility of extension.