Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) has proposed organizing a large-scale art exhibition for next year’s Kuching City Day celebration, aiming to strengthen the city’s reputation as a cultural and creative hub. The proposal was announced by Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman at the opening of the Sarawak Artists Society (SAS) 40th Annual Art Show, themed 'Heritage Reloaded', at Westbury Galleria. The exhibition features 44 local, native, and international artists, runs until November 16, and is free to the public with works available for purchase. DBKU is also preparing for the Borneo International Islamic Arts and Digital Technology Expo 2026.
This initiative matters because it underscores Kuching’s ongoing efforts to leverage its 2019 designation as a World Craft Council City of Crafts to boost cultural tourism and local creative economy. By partnering with the Sarawak Artists Society, DBKU is institutionalizing support for local artists and reinforcing art’s role in civic identity and community pride. The proposed exhibition could serve as a model for how municipal governments can use art to enhance urban branding and cultural diplomacy in Southeast Asia.