KOTA SAMARAHAN – The Samarahan Food & Cultural Festival (SFCF) 2026 is set to return from 26 June to 5 July, promising ten days of vibrant celebrations at the Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) premises.
MPKS Chairman, Abang Ismawi Abang Ali, announced that the festival will showcase the diversity of Sarawak’s food, culture, art, and heritage, reinforcing Kota Samarahan’s position as a competitive destination for cultural and gastronomic tourism.
He noted that last year’s edition attracted approximately 300,000 visitors, inspiring the council to establish the festival as an annual event.
Speaking at a press conference held at the MPKS Public Library, Abang Ismawi highlighted that SFCF serves as a platform not only to promote traditional and modern food products but also to introduce Sarawak’s multi-ethnic heritage to both local and international audiences.
He added that the 2026 edition will emphasise community economic development by involving small and medium enterprises, while also strengthening collaboration between agencies, local authorities, and communities.
The opening ceremony will be officiated by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, on 27 June.
Festival-goers can expect a wide range of activities, including competitions such as Ratu Kebaya, Ratu Cilik Kebaya, Battle of Buskers, Samarahan Idol, Malay headscarf contests, and Chinese karaoke.
Alongside stage events, visitors will enjoy side activities such as a night run, e-sports tournaments, street soccer, archery, silat dance, cooking contests, carom, a pineapple party, flower arranging, slingshot, cake decorating, colouring sessions, and an auto show.
Adding to the excitement, performances by guest artists including Nai Dinamik, Faris Malek, Nurhijrah, Rizal AF, Lucy M, Leez Zwita, Ricky Andrewson, and Allesandro will further enliven the festival atmosphere.
Also present at the press conference were MPKS Municipal Deputy Chairman Daily Joseph, Municipal Secretary Gustian Durani, and Samarahan Division Resident Representative Janfytria Abu Bakar.
SFCF 2026 is expected to strengthen tourism appeal while supporting local entrepreneurs, making it a key event in Sarawak’s cultural calendar.
