KUCHING: Kuching is host to a total of 19 ASEAN meetings this year in conjunction with Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship.

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dato' Sri Amran Mohamed Zin said the decision was made by Prime Minister, Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim to ensure that meetings also involve participation from outside the capital.

“In Sarawak alone, we have 19 ASEAN meetings that will be held in Kuching and as of today, we have held seven meetings. 

“Next week, 12 more meetings will take place, including ministerial-level meetings, senior officials meetings, and various ASEAN working committee sessions,” he said.

He said this to reporters after paying a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, on Monday.

During the meeting, both parties also discussed ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Sarawak Government, particularly in diplomatic affairs and official overseas visits.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as a ministry that has representatives in the form of embassies abroad, remains committed to providing facilitation assistance for Sarawak’s official visits, including high-level visits by the Sarawak Governor and the Premier of Sarawak,” he added.

Also present were Sarawak Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sarawak Regional Office, Fenny Nuli. -UKASnews