Malaysia Gains Momentum in UNESCO Cultural Heritage Nominations and International Recognition

25 March 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia is making significant strides in promoting its rich cultural and ecological heritage on the global stage.

The nation has completed the nomination process for UNESCO recognition of Kelantan Shadow Puppetry, Lion Dance, and Chingay Parade, marking an important milestone in safeguarding its intangible cultural assets.

Datuk Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture ( MOTAC) in his Facebook post stated that cultural elements are now in the queue for inscription on UNESCO’s prestigious list, with evaluations expected to take place gradually from 2026.

According to UNESCO’s schedule, Kelantan Shadow Puppetry is projected to be included in the 2026 candidate list for the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, while Lion Dance and Chingay Parade are anticipated to be considered in 2027.

Notably, Malaysia has jointly nominated the Lion Dance with China and the Chingay Parade with Singapore, reflecting a collaborative effort that marks Malaysia’s second partnership with these nations through UNESCO nominations.

Tiong expressed pride in Malaysia’s cultural achievements. “Our efforts to preserve and promote our unique cultural traditions are gaining international recognition. These nominations not only highlight Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity but also strengthen our position as a vibrant cultural hub in the region,” he stated.

In addition to these cultural nominations, Malaysia has also begun the process to inscribe another intangible heritage element, the “24 Festive Drums” which was initiated last year and aims to secure UNESCO recognition.

Malaysia’s cultural prominence continues to grow, with increasing international acknowledgment since 2023. The country’s diverse cultural assets are regularly listed on both the UNESCO World Heritage List and the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, underscoring Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding its heritage.

In 2024, the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) in Selangor’s Taman Hutan was successfully inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Recognised as a pioneering model for forest restoration and ecological recovery, this achievement emphasises Malaysia’s ecological wealth alongside its cultural riches, offering a dual narrative that appeals to eco-tourists and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Meanwhile, the Kelantan elements of Shadow Puppetry, Lion Dance, and Chingay, which have completed the nomination process and are now pending consideration, showcase Malaysia’s diverse cultural identity. These traditions offer visitors a rare opportunity to experience Malaysia’s vibrant heritage firsthand.

Looking ahead, Malaysia is set to host a series of international events designed to introduce its cultural richness to the world. A total of 40 events are scheduled for 2025, coinciding with the promotion of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. These include cultural performances, artistic showcases, and food tasting sessions aimed at encouraging global visitors to explore Malaysia’s diverse heritage.

“Malaysia’s cultural treasures are a source of national pride and a vital part of our tourism appeal,” said Tiong, "We are committed to sharing our rich traditions with the world and ensuring they are preserved for generations to come.”

Even during Malaysia’s hosting of key ASEAN meetings, such as the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) and World Tourism Day, the country showcases its authentic cuisine and cultural performances, further boosting its international profile.

As Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture for the 2024–2026 period, Tiong also chairs the ASEAN ASCC Council, overseeing regional initiatives to promote cultural and social cohesion. Under his leadership, Malaysia has pioneered several first-time ASEAN cultural events, including the inaugural ASEAN High-Level Forum on Socio-Cultural Community, regional strategic planning forums, and an ASEAN Handicraft Market.

Malaysia’s ongoing efforts underline its dedication to celebrating and preserving its diverse cultural landscape, positioning itself as a key player on the world’s cultural map.