By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 1: Batu Kawah is set for a vibrant transformation with a combined 70 acres of park land, a water theme park, and a shopping centre to be developed by 2030.
Speaking when officiating the Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup 2025 at the Ang Cheng Ho Quarry’s multipurpose hall in Batu Kawah today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the development reflects the constituency’s rapid growth and its vision of becoming a major lifestyle and recreational hub.
“In Batu Kawah, which is my constituency, this multipurpose hall sits on 20 acres of land under eight storeys of waters. The next phase will include lighting, amenities and other facilities,” he said.
He added that the total area of parks planned across Batu Kawah will cover about 70 acres, excluding the buildings.
“Property prices here have already increased by 200 to 300 per cent over the past few years, and I believe they will continue to rise,” he said.
Dr Sim, who is also Batu Kawah assemblyman, expressed optimism about Sarawak’s economic trajectory, saying the State’s continued prosperity would benefit the nation as a whole.
“We are hopeful for Sarawak to continue to be prosperous because if Sarawak does well, Malaysia will do well. We can lead, and the rest of Malaysia can follow us. People are now looking up to us,” he said.
He also noted that Sarawak’s growing calendar of public events reflects its progress and community spirit.
“This weekend, we have both the Sarawak Regatta at Kuching Waterfront and this dragon and lion dance tournament. Ten years ago, it was not as happening as it is now and all these are the results of everyone’s efforts in building Sarawak, including through the organising of events,” he said.
The Sarawak Open International Dragon and Lion Dance Cup 2025, returning after the success of its inaugural edition last year, attracted over 500 performers from 46 teams representing Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and China.
Organised by the Chinese Martial Art Association (CMAA) and sanctioned by the Dragon and Lion Dance Federation of Malaysia, the event is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak.
With a total prize pool of RM65,000, the competition features four main categories — Northern Lion Dance, High Pole Southern Lion Dance, Traditional Southern Lion Dance, and Moonlight Dragon.
Among the participants are the defending High Pole Southern Lion Dance champions from China and the current Moonlight Dragon world champions from Johor, promising spectators a dazzling showcase of skill, artistry, and cultural heritage.
Also present were Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, Pemanca Tan Kun Gee, and CMAA president Chester Lim. — DayakDaily
