KUCHING – The much-anticipated Iftar Perdana 2026 will take place on Saturday, 7 March, with the event expanded to cover the entire Kuching Waterfront to accommodate a larger crowd.
The programme, now in its second year, is jointly organised by Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and the Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS). It aims to provide residents, visitors and tourists with the opportunity to break fast together in a relaxed and inclusive setting along the Sarawak River.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, who is also the project coordinator, said the event will run from 4.30 pm until 10 pm. He noted that last year’s attendance was estimated at between 2,000 and 3,000 people, but this year organisers expect up to 5,000 visitors due to the expanded venue.
“Based on last year’s experience, attendance is estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 people. This year, we expect the number to increase to around 5,000 visitors because the programme area has been expanded to cover the entire Kuching Waterfront,” he said during a press conference on Friday.
The fasting area will stretch from the vicinity of the Grand Margherita Hotel to Brooke Dockyard and the Kuching City Mosque, also known as the Bandar Kuching India Mosque. This wider coverage is intended to ensure more space and comfort for participants.
In addition to the communal breaking of fast, several side activities will be held, including a children’s colouring competition and the distribution of bubur lambuk to the public. A new concept, ‘Glamping Ramadan’, will also be introduced, encouraging families to bring mats or tents to enjoy the evening in a leisurely, open-air environment.
Dr Abdul Rahman, who is also the Pantai Damai State Assemblyman, stressed that the programme is open to all communities regardless of race or religion. He described it as a platform to strengthen unity and goodwill among Kuching’s diverse population.
The event is expected to attract not only local residents but also visitors from outside the city, adding to Kuching’s reputation as a vibrant destination during Ramadan. Organisers hope the expanded format will enhance the festive atmosphere and encourage greater participation.
Also present at the press conference were Dato Hilmy Othman, Mayor of Kuching North, and Mual Suaud, Secretary of the Sarawak Islamic Council. Their involvement highlights the collaborative effort between local authorities and religious organisations in ensuring the success of the programme.
With the introduction of new activities and a larger venue, Iftar Perdana 2026 is set to become one of the highlights of Ramadan in Sarawak, reinforcing Kuching’s role as a hub for cultural and religious gatherings.
