White Cat Statue Shines Bright with Deepavali Lights, Reflecting Sarawak’s Unity
KUCHING: The famous White Cat statue at Padungan Roundabout has once again become a symbol of unity and cultural harmony as it glowed beautifully with Deepavali lights, marking the start of the Festival of Lights celebration in Kuching.
The lighting ceremony, organised by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), was officiated by the Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Speaking at the ceremony, Datuk Amar Dr Sim said the celebration reflected the true spirit of Sarawak — a state where people of different backgrounds live together in peace and mutual respect.
“Although the Indian community in Sarawak is not large, they are part of our big Sarawakian family. We celebrate together because unity is our strength,” he said.
Dr Sim added that Sarawak has always been recognised for its unity and tolerance, which serve as a model for other states in Malaysia.
“Sarawak is known as a state of unity. We must continue to respect, appreciate, and stand together. With this spirit, we can progress and remain strong. By 2030, we aim to make Sarawak a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable state,” he said.
The ceremony also featured the lighting of the Kuttu Vilakku, a traditional Indian oil lamp symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The moment captured the festive mood and highlighted the strong bonds between communities in Sarawak.
The White Cat statue, dressed with colourful decorations and radiant lights, stood as a proud symbol of Kuching’s multicultural identity — where every festival, big or small, is celebrated with shared joy and respect.
Also present were Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili, and President of the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Datuk Shankar Ram Asnani.
The event once again reminded everyone that unity in diversity remains the heart of Sarawak’s success story.
