KUCHING – Preparations for the upcoming Kuching International Cat Festival 2026 have gained momentum following a high-level discussion between city officials and the spouse of the Sarawak Premier.
Puan Dayang Norjihan Binti Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari hosted a delegation from the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) at the Satria Pertiwi Complex on 28 July 2026.
The courtesy visit was spearheaded by Mr. Rudzaimeir Malek, the Deputy Director of the DBKU Community Services Department.
The primary objective of the meeting was to outline the organisational framework for the anticipated festival, which is scheduled to take place from 2 to 4 October at the iconic Kuching Waterfront.
During the engagement, the city hall representatives formally extended an invitation to Puan Dayang Norjihan to serve as the guest of honour for the event.
Officials provided a detailed overview of the planned activities, highlighting a diverse range of attractions designed to appeal to both local residents and international visitors.
A central feature of the programme will be the World Cat Federation International Cat Show, a prestigious event that draws participants from across the globe.
In addition to the competitive show, the festival will host a vibrant Cat Parade and a comprehensive Cat Expo, showcasing various products and services related to feline care.
The cultural aspect of the festival will also be highlighted through the launch of two new books. These literary additions aim to deepen the public’s understanding of cat culture and heritage, further enriching the festival experience.
The inclusion of these elements underscores the organisers’ commitment to creating a multifaceted event that goes beyond mere entertainment.
The Kuching International Cat Festival is viewed as a strategic initiative to reinforce the city’s global branding as the “Cat City”. This moniker has become synonymous with Kuching’s identity, attracting tourists who are drawn to the unique charm and widespread affection for cats in the region.
By hosting an international-scale event, the city aims to solidify this reputation while providing a significant boost to the local tourism sector.
Beyond branding, the festival serves as an economic catalyst. It is expected to stimulate business activity in the hospitality, retail, and food and beverage sectors during the October holiday period.
The influx of visitors from within Malaysia and abroad will create opportunities for local vendors and service providers, thereby strengthening the regional economy. Furthermore, the event acts as a communal platform, bringing together cat enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their shared passion.
The discussion also touched upon the logistical aspects of managing such a large-scale gathering at the Waterfront, a prime location known for its scenic views and accessibility.
Ensuring a seamless experience for attendees remains a priority for the DBKU team, who are working closely with various stakeholders to coordinate security, traffic management, and visitor services.
Present during the meeting were key figures involved in the planning and promotion of the event. Puan Norhayati Bidin, the Head of the DBKU Public Relations Division, attended to discuss communication strategies and media engagement.
Also in attendance was Rudi Affendi Khalik, representing Suara Sarawak, indicating strong media interest and support for the festival. Their presence highlights the collaborative effort required to execute an event of this magnitude successfully.
The timing of the festival in early October is strategic, coinciding with school holidays and favourable weather conditions, which typically see higher tourist arrivals. Organisers are confident that the 2026 edition will surpass previous iterations in terms of attendance and international participation.
By leveraging Kuching’s unique identity, the city continues to position itself as a must-visit destination for niche tourism markets.
As the countdown to October begins, the focus now shifts to finalising the operational details and ramping up promotional campaigns.
The involvement of prominent community figures like Puan Dayang Norjihan is expected to generate significant public interest and ensure the festival’s continued success as a hallmark event in Sarawak’s cultural calendar.
