KUCHING: The Sarawak International Choral Festival & Symposium (SICFest & Sym) 2026 concluded in grand fashion with a Closing and Awards Ceremony graced by the presence of the Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

According to a statement, Festival Director Benedict J.C. Lo reflected on the success of the festival, which brought together more than 1,200 registered participants, including delegates, adjudicators, conductors, and choirs from six countries namely, the United States of America, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

He highlighted the festival's role in promoting artistic excellence, music education, intercultural understanding, and international friendship through the universal language of music.

The ceremony was further honoured by an address from the Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who reaffirmed the Sarawak Government's commitment to supporting arts, culture, and international events that contribute to tourism development, cultural exchange, talent cultivation, and Sarawak's growing reputation as a preferred destination for business and cultural events.

Also present were MTCP Deputy Ministers Datuk Snowdan Lawan and Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee and other honoured guests.

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the ceremonial procession of the SICFest Golden Kenyalang Grand Prix Trophy, symbolising the highest honour of the festival.

The SICFest Golden Kenyalang Grand Prix Finals featured seven outstanding choirs representing Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Certificates were subsequently presented to all Grand Prix finalists before Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah presented the coveted SICFest Golden Kenyalang Grand Prix Trophy to the overall champion choir.

Following an exciting and closely contested Grand Prix Final, the SICFest Golden Kenyalang Grand Prix Trophy was awarded to Liceo U High School Glee Club and Alumni, who delivered an outstanding performance that captivated both the adjudicators and audience alike.

Organised by the Kuching Choral Society, the SICFest & Sym continues to serve as a platform for artistic excellence, music education, cultural diplomacy, and international collaboration, fostering friendships and strengthening connections through the universal language of song. -UKASnews