KUCHING – The annual Kuching Festival will shine even brighter this year with the inclusion of international cultural performances under the banner of ‘International Friendship Cities Night’. The special event will take place over three evenings, from July 25 to 27, 2025, at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Theatre, offering audiences a unique glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of China and Japan.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced during a press conference on Wednesday that the event will run from 7.30pm to 10.00pm each night, and will feature performances from several international sister cities.
“We are pleased to welcome cultural delegations from Tai’an in Shandong Province, Zhenjiang in Jiangsu Province, Zhengzhou in Henan Province, and Quanzhou in Fujian Province — all from China. Additionally, Asuke, a town in Toyota City, Japan, will also join us with its traditional performances,” he said.
According to Dato Wee, highlights of the event include traditional singing, music, dance, and martial arts by students from Taishan University, Tai’an; five classical Chinese dances by the Zhenjiang troupe; and a traditional string puppet show from Quanzhou. Zhengzhou will showcase Shaolin Kung Fu acts from the world-renowned Shaolin Temple, while Asuke will present powerful traditional Taiko drumming performances.
“This is the first time many of these groups are performing in Sarawak or even Malaysia. It is a rare cultural experience for locals and visitors alike,” he added, encouraging the public to attend.
Importantly, all performances are free of charge, offering festival-goers a chance to enjoy both the vibrant food fair and world-class cultural showcases in one festive celebration.
