KUCHING – Sarawak will close 2025 with a landmark achievement as the state secures recognition from Guinness World Records (GWR), underscoring its ambition to be known globally as the Gateway to Borneo.
The official announcement is scheduled for 31 December 2025 at the Kuching Waterfront during Countdown 2026, a celebration that will usher in the new year with fireworks, music and cultural performances.
The recognition coincides with preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, positioning Sarawak as a key destination for international travellers.
Guinness World Records, acknowledged worldwide as the authority on record-breaking feats, provides independent validation of achievements across industries and nations.
Securing a title places Sarawak among an elite group of record-holders, offering credibility and visibility on the global stage.
The record was set through a journey spanning Sarawak’s diverse landscapes, from Tanjung Datu to Lawas, symbolising the state’s scale and connectivity. More than a technical accomplishment, the initiative reflects Sarawak’s determination to showcase its cultural richness and geographical breadth.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, emphasised the broader significance of the achievement.
“This achievement goes beyond setting a world record. It reflects Sarawak’s readiness to lead with bold ideas, innovation and confidence as we step into 2026,” he said.
He added that unveiling the record on New Year’s Eve signals the momentum Sarawak is building as it prepares to welcome global visitors.
The upcoming celebration at the Kuching Waterfront will feature a curated programme of performances by local and international artists.
The highlight will be a midnight fireworks display accompanied by music, symbolising Sarawak’s confident entry into the new year.
Organisers expect the event to draw large crowds, reinforcing the festive spirit and collective pride of Sarawakians.
Tourism analysts note that achievements such as Guinness World Records titles can strengthen a destination’s appeal by combining innovation with storytelling.
For Sarawak, the recognition aligns with its branding as the Gateway to Borneo, a narrative that highlights its natural beauty, cultural diversity and strategic location.
As the state prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the Guinness World Record serves as a milestone in its tourism journey.
It demonstrates how ambition and creativity can converge to create a compelling global identity, while offering Sarawakians a moment of pride as they welcome the new year.
