By Marlynda Meraw
Over the past week, Kuching has been abuzz with an influx of visitors from West Kalimantan, Indonesia. With the extended school holidays in Indonesia, which run until January 6, and the allure of welcoming the New Year in style, Cat City has become a magnet for our neighbours across the border.
Evidence of their presence is hard to miss. Roads are bustling with vehicles bearing West Kalimantan licence plates, weaving through the streets of Kuching. Their drivers and passengers, many from Pontianak, Landak, Balai Karangan, Kendayan, and Sosok, have been spotted exploring the city’s attractions, and shopping centres as their people enjoyed the unique offerings Kuching has to offer.
The 2025 New Year countdown celebration at the Kuching Waterfront seemed to be a significant draw. Featuring the legendary Hetty Koes Endang, also known as Bunda, whose enchanting performance graced the festivities, the event undoubtedly added a touch of glamour and nostalgia to the start of 2025.
According to a report by Suara Sarawak on Dec 29, the Entikong Border Crossing Post saw thousands of West Kalimantan residents making their way into Sarawak.
On Christmas Eve alone, the Tebedu Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex recorded an influx of approximately 2,000 individuals. Many came with plans to shop, vacation with family or friends, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere.
To our neighbouring visitors, the appeal of Kuching’s shopping centres, known for their year-end discounts, has not gone unnoticed. Visitors often praise the high-quality, branded goods available at reasonable prices.
Besides shopping, some tourists seek medical services at specialist hospitals or use Kuching International Airport (KIA) as a transit point to destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Bangkok.
This vibrant influx not only demonstrated the deep cultural and social ties between Sarawak and West Kalimantan but also highlighted Kuching’s appeal as a regional hub for leisure, shopping, and healthcare.
As the new year continues, the presence of our Indonesian neighbours adds a lively dynamic to the city’s festive celebrations, enriching its multicultural spirit. –DayakDaily
