KUCHING: The Sarawak Regatta 2025 was officially launched by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg in a colourful and grand ceremony at the Kuching Waterfront on Friday afternoon.
The event, which began around 3pm, was marked by an atmosphere of cultural pride and unity, drawing crowds of locals and visitors eager to witness the state’s iconic river festival. The Premier’s arrival was welcomed by state dignitaries, followed by traditional tribal performances that celebrated Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, along with Deputy Ministers, former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Alfred Jabu Numpang, and Kuching Division Resident Dayang Joanita Azizah Abang Morshidi.
The ceremony opened with a pentomin performance retelling the origin of the Sarawak Regatta — a tradition born centuries ago to replace inter-tribal conflicts with peaceful boat racing. As part of the symbolic act, Dayang Joanita presented a box inscribed “Race for Harmony” to Premier Abang Johari, representing the passing of the regatta’s heritage and spirit to the state’s leadership.
This was followed by the handover of the rower’s symbol to the Controller of the Sarawak Rivers Authority and Chief Race Marshall Lt Col Ding Tiew Wong, marking the official start of this year’s regatta events.
Premier Abang Johari later performed the traditional “eye-dotting” ceremony for the Dragon Boat Regatta 2025, held in conjunction with the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Race (SIDBR) 2025. The moment was capped by the “Battle of the Dragons” — a spirited six-sided tug-of-war between participating teams — symbolising strength, teamwork, and unity among Sarawakians.
Following the regatta’s launch, the Premier also officiated the mini-launch of the Sarawak Borneo Craft Festival 2025 and toured the Sarawak Regatta Entrepreneur Showcase, both organised alongside the regatta to promote local craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.
The Sarawak Regatta, deeply rooted in history and cultural significance, continues to embody the state’s spirit of peace, unity, and harmony through sportsmanship and tradition. – UKAS
