KUCHING – Artists, performers, and culture enthusiasts gathered at The Spring Shopping Mall on Saturday evening for the launch of Seni Kita: Riang Raya, a month-long festival celebrating Sarawak’s creative spirit and cultural heritage.
The festival, organised through collaboration between HAUS Kuching and The Spring Shopping Mall, runs until March 29, 2026. Visitors will find exhibitions, performances, and creative showcases highlighting the region’s artistic community.
Wee Hong Seng, mayor of Kuching South City Council (MBKS), officiated the launch and spoke about the challenges faced by the creative sector during the pandemic. He said the industry stood among the hardest hit, yet artists and cultural practitioners across Sarawak continued pushing forward.
“Events like this remind us that Kuching’s strength lies in its people,” he said, recalling the difficult pandemic years. He pointed out the surge in creative events since 2022, beginning with the first Seni Kita festival at the Old Court House, as proof of the community’s resilience.
The mayor said the festival celebrates more than art. It reflects the determination and unity of the people who helped rebuild the creative scene. While the city often gains recognition for its famous Sarawak laksa and welcoming atmosphere, he noted its growing reputation as a centre for artistic expression.
The launch brought together organisers, vendors, artists, volunteers, and members of the media, creating a lively and colourful atmosphere inside the mall. Their presence highlighted the collective effort behind the festival.
Dato Wee encouraged residents and visitors to explore the festival throughout March, support local talent, and experience fresh perspectives on Sarawak’s cultural identity. “When we support our creatives, we invest in a future full of possibilities,” he said.
Seni Kita: Riang Raya builds on the momentum of earlier creative initiatives in Kuching. The festival aims to strengthen community ties, promote local heritage, and provide emerging artists with a platform to share their work with wider audiences.
With a diverse lineup and strong support from the community, the event is expected to attract large crowds and further strengthen Kuching’s reputation as a hub for culture and creativity.
