KUCHING: The Switching On Chinese New Year Lighting 2026 ceremony at the iconic White Cat in Padungan once again highlighted Sarawak’s long-standing tradition of unity and harmony, as people from all walks of life came together to celebrate cultural diversity in a shared and meaningful way.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said festivals in Sarawak are never confined to one community alone, but are celebrated collectively by the people of this multicultural state. He noted that this inclusive approach has become a defining feature of Sarawakian society, where respect and understanding across cultures are deeply rooted.
According to him, the effort to decorate the White Cat landmark in conjunction with Chinese New Year reflects the true spirit of Sarawak. Each festive season, the famous cat is given a new look to represent the occasion being celebrated. This tradition, he said, symbolises how Sarawakians embrace every cultural event together, regardless of background.
Dr Sim said this spirit aligns closely with Kuching’s recognition as the City of Unity and the City of Harmony, a title that carries responsibility for all parties to protect and nurture social cohesion. He added that festive decorations and celebrations also help create a warm and friendly atmosphere, especially for Sarawakians returning home from abroad during major celebrations.
He explained that such efforts are important in ensuring that those who return feel a strong sense of belonging, reminding them that Sarawak remains their home, always ready to welcome them back.
During the event, Dr Sim also announced that the Sarawak Government’s Official Chinese New Year Celebration Ceremony will be held on the first day of the festival at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. The celebration will feature performances by local talents, reflecting the state’s commitment to promoting local arts and culture under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
He said this approach reflects Sarawak’s core values of prosperity, inclusiveness and sustainability, which continue to guide the state’s development direction.
Meanwhile, Kuching South City Council Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the White Cat decoration concept this year was inspired by the Year of the Horse, symbolising progress, speed and success. He explained that the design also incorporates Sarawak’s development aspirations, including the implementation of the Autonomous Rapid Transport system.
The cat is portrayed as a driver with tracks in front, representing forward movement and clear direction for the state’s future. Dato Wee reaffirmed MBKS’ support for the Sarawak Government’s vision and encouraged the public to offer constructive feedback on development initiatives.
He also highlighted that this year’s decorations emphasise sustainability, with the use of recycled tyres and lanterns donated by the local community. The involvement of residents and the private sector, he said, reflects strong public confidence in the city administration and a shared commitment to developing Kuching together.
The ceremony served not only as a festive celebration, but as a clear reflection of Sarawak’s ongoing effort to strengthen unity, harmony and a sense of belonging among its people.
