MOTAC To Host International Workshop On Melaka Declaration On Cultural Heritage Value Creation

MELAKA, July 20 (Bernama) -- The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) will host an International Workshop on the Melaka Declaration on Cultural Heritage Value Creation from July 23 to 24 at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage City of Melaka.

The ministry’s Corporate Communication Unit said the two-day workshop will be jointly organised with the ASEAN Secretariat and strategic partners, Think City and Telekom Malaysia Berhad.

“The workshop is a step forward in harnessing the untapped power of Southeast Asia’s rich cultural heritage as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, social cohesion and creative innovation.

“This international gathering will bring together over 100 distinguished participants including cultural experts, academics, creative economy leaders, representatives from ASEAN Member States, SOMCA (Senior Officials’ Meeting on Culture and Arts) and stakeholders to explore transformative approaches in heritage conservation and value creation,” the ministry said in a statement tonight, adding that panel discussions, breakout dialogues and plenary sessions would be held throughout the workshop.

Discussions on maximising the socio-economic potential of ASEAN’s cultural heritage by elevating its value chain for economic growth, strengthening regional cooperation through whole-of-ASEAN frameworks and cross-pillar collaboration will also be held during the workshop.

The event is expected to promote public awareness and community engagement in heritage preservation, and integrate culture and heritage into sustainable development policies to ensure inclusive growth and social cohesion.

“The Melaka Declaration, as the main outcome of the workshop, will contribute to the development of a significant ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) outcome document, targeted to be adopted at the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. 

“It aims to strengthen cultural cooperation, expand inclusive economic opportunities and promote a deeper appreciation of ASEAN’s shared heritage,” the ministry added.

— BERNAMA