KUCHING: More than 200 contingents and beautifully decorated floats filled the streets of Kuching with colour, culture and festive excitement during the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Parade 2026 on Thursday night. The annual parade, organised by the Kuching Teochew Association, once again drew large crowds and turned the city centre into a lively celebration of faith and tradition.
The event attracted locals and visitors from various backgrounds, with many arriving early to secure good spots along the parade route. Long before the procession began, members of the public were already seen lining the streets, eager to witness the grand display. As the parade moved through the city, spectators enthusiastically recorded the moment using mobile phones and cameras, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the night.
The procession began at the Hiang Thian Shang Ti Temple along Carpenter Street and passed through several major roads, including Ewe Hai Street, Wayang Street, Jalan Tabuan, Jalan Padungan and Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman. It continued through the historic Main Bazaar and Gambier Street before reaching Padang Merdeka, eventually returning to the temple. The extended route allowed more members of the public to take part and enjoy the celebration.
Beyond its religious importance, the parade is one of the key annual events organised by the Kuching Teochew Association and continues to receive strong support from the Chinese community. Over the years, it has also grown in significance as a cultural event. Its inclusion in the Sarawak Tourism Calendar reflects its rising status as an attraction that promotes local heritage and draws visitors to the state.
Officiating the event, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the parade has the potential to grow in popularity, similar to the well-known Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple procession. Representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, he noted that the Hiang Thian Siang Ti Parade could eventually develop into a national tourism product and gain recognition beyond Malaysia.
He added that the event is not only a religious celebration but also a platform that strengthens cultural heritage, encourages togetherness and fosters unity among the community.
In conjunction with the celebration, the Kuching Teochew Association will host a Fu Yuan Shan Qing bidding dinner at Lau Ya Keng Foodcourt along Carpenter Street on Friday, January 23. During the dinner, devotees and attendees will have the opportunity to bid for offerings to seek blessings from the deity.
As the parade continues to grow each year, it remains a meaningful tradition that brings people together and highlights Kuching’s rich cultural landscape.
