Chinese new villages in Selangor to be mooted as Unesco sites

KUALA LUMPUR: Plans are underway to nominate Chinese new villages in Selangor as Unesco World Heritage Sites in recognition of their cultural and historical significance, says Nga Kor Ming.

The Housing and Local Government Minister said a discussion would be held with the Selangor government on the details soon.

“It has been 76 years since the new villages in Selangor were founded in 1948.

“I will engage with the state government to begin a study (on the nomination process),” he said when launching the Balik Kampung CNY Fest at a mall here yesterday.

In June last year, Nga said seven villages were selected as national representatives for submission to Unesco for World Heritage Site status.

“The Malaysian Chinese new village is unique with valuable heritage left from decades ago.

“In recent years, the youth have returned to new villages, as well as numerous cultural centres and organisations, indicating a sign of development,” said Nga.

“This is a good thing for local tourism, where people from all over can learn about Malaysian Chinese history and culture, and also stimulate economic development.

“We are all Malaysians, regardless of our background or culture. It is our duty to embrace each other’s heritage and diversity,” the minister added.

Nga also congratulated Kuala Lumpur on its 50th anniversary as a Federal Territory.

Separately, Selangor local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim said the event serves as a platform for the continuous exchange of cultures among the diverse Chinese communities.

“Not only will this promote cultural acceptance within the local communities... the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China can be nurtured as well,” he said.