Kuching is hosting the 22nd General Assembly and Scientific Symposium of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). This will be the first ICOMOS General Assembly held in Southeast Asia.
The main programme runs from 17 to 23 October 2026, with preparatory activities already under way.
Under the theme “Living Heritage: Respect, Enhance, Accept, Partnership”, GA2026 will bring heritage professionals, policymakers and academics together to exchange knowledge and discuss the future of conservation. As at 16 October 2026, registration stood at 1,593 participants from 113 countries.
The Borneo Convention Centre Kuching will be the main venue for the General Assembly and Scientific Symposium. Alongside the professional meetings, the wider programme connects international discussion with Sarawak’s museums, crafts, historic places and community experiences.
The public can visit the Heritage Exposition at Level 1, BCCK, from 19 to 22 October, between 8.30 am and 5.00 pm daily (free entry). Its focus on living heritage and rainforest stewardship brings nature, culture and community into a shared exhibition setting. The Scientific Symposium is reserved for paid participants.
Other scheduled activities include programmes with the Sarawak Museum Department, Sarawak Craft Council and Old Kuching, as well as reflections on UNESCO at 80. Together, these activities offer opportunities to explore how heritage is sustained through places, skills, knowledge and everyday cultural practice.