MIRI — A planned “foam party” scheduled to take place in Miri on New Year’s Eve has drawn strong objections from a group of local non-governmental organisations (NGOs), who argue that the event does not align with Sarawak’s cultural values and social norms.
The concern was raised by a coalition of 12 NGOs after promotional materials for the event began circulating on social media. According to the organisers, the celebration is expected to be held at an open-air venue in the city on Dec 31 and would feature foreign performers. This announcement has triggered unease among sections of the local community, prompting the NGOs to voice their stance publicly.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, group spokesperson Mohamad Abdullah Jamin said the NGOs had received numerous feedback from residents who were worried about the nature of the event. He explained that videos shared online about similar performances raised questions about their suitability for local audiences.
Mohamad Abdullah stressed that Sarawak has long been recognised for its multi-racial harmony and strong emphasis on decency and moderation, particularly in public celebrations. He said events organised for major occasions such as New Year’s Eve should respect local sensitivities and be appropriate for people of all ages.
According to him, the NGOs are not opposing celebrations or entertainment in general. Instead, they are calling for organisers to be more mindful of the values that define Sarawak society. He noted that celebrations rooted in local arts, culture, family participation and community spirit would better represent the identity of the state and foster unity among the people.
He added that public events should bring communities together rather than create discomfort or misunderstanding. In his view, entertainment that conflicts with societal norms risks sending the wrong message, especially to younger generations, and may undermine the cultural foundations that Sarawakians have upheld for decades.
The NGOs have therefore urged both the event organisers and the relevant authorities to reconsider the planned foam party. Mohamad Abdullah said a revised approach that reflects Sarawak’s dignity, cultural heritage and shared values would be more suitable for a public New Year’s Eve celebration.
As the year-end festivities draw closer, the issue has sparked wider discussion on the balance between modern entertainment and cultural responsibility. The NGOs hope their concerns will be taken seriously so that celebrations in Sarawak continue to promote harmony, respect and a sense of shared identity among its diverse communities.
