KUCHING – The arrival of 2026 was marked with grandeur at the Kuching Waterfront as thousands gathered for the Sarawak Countdown 2026: Let’s Celebrate Together event.
The celebration was graced by His Excellency the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi and their family.
The couple, accompanied by their daughters Sharifah Fariah, Sharifah Nong-Jasima with her husband Encik Muhammad Nur Hakeem, and Sharifah Nuril Barieyah, arrived at 11.30 pm to a warm welcome from dignitaries.
Among those present were Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, representing the Premier of Sarawak, alongside his wife Datin Amar Enn Ong Siok Ean.
Also in attendance was Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, who also oversees the year-end celebration, accompanied by his wife Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jaabar.
The evening featured a vibrant programme of cultural and entertainment performances, highlighted by appearances from popular acts such as KRU, Dayang Nurfaizah, and Indonesian star Judika. Their performances added energy and excitement to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the night was the countdown to the New Year, followed by a spectacular display of lasers, lights, and fireworks that lit up the Kuching skyline. The show symbolised Sarawak’s readiness to embrace 2026 with optimism and unity.
In a historic moment, Sarawak was officially recognised by the Guinness World Records for the special drone performance titled Gateway to Sarawak.
The achievement placed the state on the global stage ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, showcasing Sarawak’s creativity and innovation.
Tun Pehin Sri expressed gratitude for the lively celebration and prayed for continued prosperity, unity, and well-being for the people of Sarawak.
The presence of state leaders and dignitaries underscored the government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and harmony across communities.
The event concluded with a strong message of unity, reflecting Sarawak’s determination to move forward together into the new year.
