National Art Gallery To Host 'Borneo Creative And Culture District' In Kota Kinabalu

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14, 2025 (Bernama) -- Kota Kinabalu is set to become the regional centre for arts and culture when the National Art Gallery hosts the large-scale Borneo Creative and Culture District (BCCD) programme for three days beginning Sept 26.

According to a statement by the National Art Gallery, the programme aims to establish an inclusive and dynamic creative and cultural hub by bringing together elements of heritage, culture, and innovation through activities that encourage participation from various sectors.

“In addition to strengthening the tourism sector and boosting the creative economy, this programme also seeks to raise public awareness of the role of arts and culture in shaping identity and fostering national unity,” the statement said.

The event will also serve as a platform for unity through strong collaboration among various parties, including grassroots communities, youth, educational institutions, and creative industry players.

“Throughout the three-day event, there will be various engaging activities including an artisan arts market, art demonstrations, exhibitions by arts and cultural institutions, community engagement programmes, sharing sessions, as well as musical and cultural performances featuring artists from Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei,” said the National Art Gallery.

The programme will also be enlivened by the participation of arts collectives and organisations from across the Borneo region.

It is supported by the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment; Sabah Art Gallery; and various agencies and local authorities.

“As a pilot programme that unites stakeholders from across the region, the Borneo Creative and Culture District is seen as a key platform to strengthen the regional arts and cultural ecosystem,” the statement read.

At the same time, the event is expected to open doors for broader collaborations, direct cultural exchange, and international exposure that could elevate local talent to greater heights.

“It is hoped that the programme will position Kota Kinabalu as one of the key arts and culture development centres in the Borneo region, while enhancing the city’s presence on the regional cultural map,” the National Art Gallery said.

Further information on the full programme schedule will be announced via the National Art Gallery’s official website at www.artgallery.gov.my and its official social media channels.

-- BERNAMA