KUCHING: The hosting of Water Festival events needs to be thoroughly examined by taking into account location, public safety, traffic congestion, and the interests of surrounding premise owners, said Sarawak Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Commenting on the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 scheduled to be held in Bukit Bintang, he stated that such events have positive value as they can bring family institutions together and create a joyful atmosphere among the community.

"Sometimes these matters cause difficulties because, personally, I feel that if it is held in Bukit Bintang, specifically near Pavilion, it is likely to affect the surrounding conditions," he said.

He said this while speaking at the Opening Ceremony of the Sarawak United National Youth Organisation (SABERKAS) President’s Cup Futsal Championship at the Simpang Tiga Sports Arena here on Friday.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim also opined that locations in major central business districts are less suitable for such events.

"This is because the views of building owners in those areas must also be considered, where people running into buildings while wet might cause inconvenience," he noted.

He added that these factors must be considered by local authorities before suggesting or approving any location.

Furthermore, he expressed confidence that the organisation of such a programme would face objections if held adjacent to building complexes here because it could cause traffic problems.

"Even though some come specifically to play with water, there are also those who might be unaware and suddenly get splashed, causing them to panic.

"Such situations can lead to accidents or property damage; therefore, it must be considered from various angles," he remarked. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photos: Shahril Haqim
Translator: Ryan Lim