KUCHING – Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has announced four new events for the upcoming Kuching Festival 2026, expanding the programme to include activities that highlight creativity, sports, entertainment and community engagement.
The additions are designed to appeal to youths, families and visitors, ensuring the festival continues to evolve beyond its reputation as a food fair. Mayor of Kuching South, Dato Wee Hong Seng, said the new programmes reflect MBKS’s commitment to making the festival a platform for talent development, active lifestyles and family enjoyment.
The events scheduled are:
- Kuching Festival Cosplay Competition 2026 Date: 25 July 2026 Time: 7.00 pm – 11.00 pm Venue: MBKS Theatre
- Kuching Festival K-Pop Dance Cover Competition 2026 Date: 26 July 2026 Time: 7.00 pm – 11.00 pm Venue: MBKS Theatre
- Kuching Festival Pokémon Trading Card Competition 2026 Date: 2 August 2026 Time: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm Venue: MBKS Lobby
- MBKS Pickle Rush Kuching 2026 Date: 25 July 2026 Venue: PicklePro Kuching
Dato Wee expressed gratitude to Star Studio Sarawak, PicklePro Kuching, Isekai, sponsors, volunteers and organising committees for their strong support in making these events possible. He invited the public to take part in the competitions and enjoy the diverse programmes throughout the festival.
The Kuching Festival has long been recognised as one of Malaysia’s largest community celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Traditionally known for its extensive food fair, the festival has increasingly incorporated cultural, artistic and recreational activities to broaden its appeal.
The Cosplay Competition is expected to attract enthusiasts showcasing elaborate costumes inspired by anime, comics and gaming culture. The K-Pop Dance Cover Competition will highlight the growing popularity of Korean pop culture among local youths, offering a stage for performers to demonstrate their creativity and energy.
Meanwhile, the Pokémon Trading Card Competition will provide a platform for fans of the globally popular game to compete and connect, reflecting the festival’s embrace of contemporary hobbies. The Pickle Rush event introduces pickleball, a sport gaining traction worldwide, to Kuching audiences, encouraging active participation and promoting healthy living.
MBKS emphasised that these events are part of a broader effort to make the festival inclusive and engaging for all age groups. By diversifying the programme, the council aims to strengthen community bonds and showcase Kuching’s vibrant cultural identity.
The Kuching Festival 2026 will run from 22 July to 16 August, featuring more than 300 food stalls, trade exhibitions, amusement games, nightly entertainment and the popular Garden Show. With the addition of these four events, organisers expect even greater participation and excitement.
Dato Wee reiterated that the festival is not only about food but also about celebrating creativity, culture and community spirit. He encouraged residents and visitors to join in the festivities and experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Kuching.
