Festivals A Strong Platform For Unity & Harmony In Sarawak
KUCHING: The Switching On Chinese New Year Lighting 2026 ceremony at White Cat, Padungan has become a symbol of the unity of the Sarawakian community in celebrating cultural diversity together and harmoniously.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said that the celebration of festivals in Sarawak is not only celebrated by a particular community, but is also celebrated by all communities in this state.
According to him, the effort to decorate the White Cat landmark in Padungan in conjunction with Chinese New Year reflects the spirit of Sarawak that celebrates cultural diversity in an inclusive manner.
“Every festival, this iconic cat will wear a new costume. This is the spirit of Sarawak, where every festival is celebrated together by everyone,” he said when speaking at the Switching On Chinese New Year Lighting 2026 ceremony at White Cat, Padungan, here last night.
He said this spirit was in line with Kuching’s title as the City of Unity and the City of Harmony, which emphasises the role of all parties in ensuring that community harmony is maintained.
He added that festive celebrations also play a key role in building a friendly atmosphere and welcoming the return of Sarawakians who are abroad during the festive season.
“We want those who return to feel that Sarawak is their home, a state that always welcomes its people back warmly,” he said.
Meanwhile, Datuk Amar Dr Sim also announced that the Sarawak Government’s Official Chinese New Year Celebration Ceremony will be held on the first day of the celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
He said the celebration will feature performances by local talents as an effort to promote local arts and culture, in line with Sarawak’s aspiration for inclusive and sustainable development under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“This reflects the values of prosperity, inclusiveness and sustainability which are the core of Sarawak’s development,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the White Cat decoration concept this year was inspired by the theme of the Year of the Horse which symbolises progress, speed and success.
According to him, the design also takes into account the state's development aspirations, including the implementation of the Autonomous Rapid Transport (ART) system.
"If you look closely, this cat is depicted as a driver with tracks in front, symbolising the forward movement and direction of Sarawak's development," he said in an interview with the media.
He reaffirmed MBKS’ full support for the Sarawak Government's development vision and encouraged the community to provide support and constructive suggestions for every initiative implemented.
"Give space for a plan to be implemented. If you have any views, present them constructively so that we can improve," he said.
He added that this year's Chinese New Year celebration decorations also emphasise elements of sustainability, including the use of recycled tires and the donation of lanterns by the local community.
According to him, the involvement of the community and the private sector reflects the level of confidence in the city administration and the spirit of togetherness in developing Kuching.
"We want all parties to play their respective roles and jointly contribute towards building a more developed city and state," he said.
The ceremony is not only a symbol of festive celebration, but also reflects the ongoing commitment of the Sarawak Government and local authorities in fostering unity, harmony and a spirit of belonging among the people of Sarawak. -UKASnews
