KUCHING – The Countdown 2026 New Year Celebration is set to return to the Kuching Waterfront on 31 December 2025, with organisers promising the biggest New Year event yet in the Land of the Tigers.
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, announced that this year’s celebration will carry the theme “Fiesta”, designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. He extended an open invitation to the public to join in welcoming the new year.
The festivities will begin at 8pm with a pre-performance segment featuring local talents such as Gabriel Mawat, Ng Chien Chien, Meera Zada, Carrie Geres, Razali Sa’at, and Jolly Jengan. Their performances are expected to set the tone for an energetic evening.
The official programme will run from 10pm until midnight, showcasing renowned acts including KRU, Dayang Nurfaizah, Jatt Ali, and Naqiu.
The event will also be attended by distinguished figures, including the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
As the highlight of the night, celebrated Indonesian singer Judika will deliver an exclusive performance to ring in the new year. His appearance is expected to draw significant attention, adding international flair to the Sarawak celebration.
The evening will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the Kuching skyline as thousands gather along the waterfront.
In addition, organisers will mark the launch of the “Gateway To A Sarawak Guinness World Record”, recently recognised for achieving the longest GPS journey using a drone.
The Countdown 2026 celebration continues Sarawak’s tradition of hosting large-scale New Year festivities, positioning Kuching Waterfront as a premier destination for cultural and entertainment events.
With a mix of local and international performers, official dignitaries, and record-breaking achievements, the event is expected to be one of the most memorable celebrations in recent years.
