KUCHING: The Kenyalang Park Commercial Centre will once again come alive as one of the city’s most iconic festive marketplaces for the Chinese New Year Festive Sales 2026.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced the details on Monday, noting that the event has been a long-standing tradition in the community, predating modern shopping complexes.

“This celebration remains one of the city’s most meaningful and lively community events,” he said at a press conference which was also attended by Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili.

The sales will run for 15 days, from 2 to 16 February 2026. Permit applications open from 2 to 15 December 2025, with priority given to shop lot owners and tenants, who may each apply for up to two trading spaces.

Permit fees remain affordable, with shop lot owners and tenants paying RM100 per stall, and members of the public RM150.

A total of 277 stalls will be available, 106 for shop lot owners and tenants, and 171 for the general public.

Dato Wee highlighted that the event is more than a commercial activity as it provides a platform for home-based and small-scale traders to earn additional income, grow their networks, and showcase their creativity.

“Many of our traders bake, craft, and produce festive goods from home. This marketplace empowers them while preserving cultural heritage,” he said.

The mayor also noted that the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, promoting accessible opportunities for micro-entrepreneurs and supporting local livelihoods.

He urged the public to visit Kenyalang during the festive period to support local traders and celebrate the unique character of the community.

“The Kenyalang Chinese New Year Festive Sales is a celebration of culture, creativity, and community spirit,” he said. -UKASnews