KUCHING – The city of Kuching has officially commenced its annual celebration, marking a significant milestone as the Kuching Festival enters its fortieth year. What began four decades ago as a modest gathering near the reservoir park has evolved into one of the most prominent community events in Malaysia, reflecting the growth and dynamism of the state capital since its elevation to city status in 1988.
The festival, affectionately known as Kuching Fes, serves as a central highlight in the local calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike. It is viewed not merely as a recreational event but as a vital component of nation-building within Sarawak. The occasion brings together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and shared pride in the city’s heritage and progress.
A major feature of this year’s edition is the extensive culinary offering. Over four hundred food stalls are operational, showcasing a wide array of gastronomic creativity. These include ventures by university students gaining practical entrepreneurship experience, online sellers transitioning to physical retail, and professional chefs revealing special dishes exclusively for the festival. This diversity highlights the vibrant food culture that recently earned Kuching certification as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The social fabric of the event is characterised by seamless integration among different ethnic communities. Stalls operated by Malay, Chinese, and Dayak entrepreneurs are situated side by side, symbolising economic cooperation and mutual support. Visitors frequently observe families and friends from various backgrounds sharing meals and laughter at common tables. This interaction reinforces the city’s reputation as a model of harmony and multicultural coexistence.
Beyond dining, the festival offers a packed schedule of activities. Thirty-two programmes run nightly, ranging from sports such as pickleball, Zumba, Tai Chi, and Silat, to cultural performances including traditional oriental music, cosplay, and K-pop. Local talent showcases provide a platform for residents to display their artistic abilities, adding a personal touch to the festivities.
Health and wellness are also central themes. In alignment with the city’s designation as a Healthy City, the festival period includes initiatives such as the Hari Sarawak walk. The campaign culminates in the popular Mayor Walk on 16 August, which aims to attract ten thousand participants. This focus on physical activity underscores the local government’s commitment to public health and active living.
International engagement is another key aspect of the celebrations. The Friendship Cities Night facilitates bilateral exchanges with partner cities around the world. Cultural teams from Chengdu, Quanzhou, and Zhenjiang in China, as well as Fuzhou in Japan and Jiu Lao in South Korea, are scheduled to perform over three nights. These exchanges bring global cultures to Kuching while promoting the city’s identity on the international stage.
Furthermore, Kuching is preparing to host representatives from thirty cities for the UNESCO Food Creative City Annual Meeting starting in August. This gathering will feature dedicated food courts and traditional Tuak corners, allowing delegates to experience local hospitality firsthand. The event coincides with recognition for the Kuching North City Hall (MBKS), which has received high ratings for governance and low corruption risk.
Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian commended Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and the organising committee for their efforts. He noted that the festival exemplifies how municipal services can contribute to broader social cohesion and nation-building. The inclusion of special editions of beverage cans designed specifically for Kuching by major brands further illustrates the commercial and cultural significance of the event.
Organisers have expressed gratitude to the volunteers, merchants, media personnel, and content creators who have contributed to the festival’s success. Their collective effort has helped elevate the profile of Kuching, turning a local celebration into a globally recognised event. Residents are encouraged to support local businesses and create lasting memories with family and friends during this historic fortieth anniversary.
