By Christine T
KUCHING, Sept 14: The 4th Cheongsam Cultural Festival 2026 will attempt to set a Malaysia Book of Records entry by gathering 500 senior citizens dressed in cheongsams on Sept 20.
Themed ‘Aura of Our Cheongsam: Beauty in Bloom’, the festival is organised by the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association in collaboration with Kuching South City Council (MBKS), with funding support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP).
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the festival aims to strengthen Sarawak’s identity by celebrating Chinese cultural heritage alongside the diverse cultures that have grown together in Sarawak over generations.
“Cheongsam and samfoo represent the Chinese community’s tradition, culture, and heritage, while we also want to reflect the diverse cultures that have grown together in Sarawak over generations.
“We want to see how traditional cheongsam and samfoo can incorporate Sarawakian elements, particularly through the use of Sarawak batik designs.
“We want people to see that our cultural heritage does not have to remain unchanged. We can preserve its identity while giving it a local touch that reflects who we are as Sarawakians,” he said during a press conference at the MBKS meeting room today.
On the morning of the event, participants are to gather at Kuching Park for a walk, creating a colourful and lively atmosphere as they come together dressed in their own cheongsam and samfoo.
Following the walk, participants will proceed to the community hall, where a T-shaped stage will be set up for them to showcase their cheongsam and samfoo.
The event will focus on participation rather than competition, with participants encouraged to wear traditional attire or designs incorporating Sarawak batik and other local elements.
“I personally would like to invite everyone, especially senior citizens in Kuching and surrounding areas, to join us. We need 500 senior citizens, and I really hope we can achieve it,” he said.
Children and grandchildren are also encouraged to help their parents and grandparents register, prepare their outfits, and accompany them to the event.
Wee said the festival also aims to allow senior citizens to socialise, meet friends, and be celebrated for their contributions to their families and the community.
The festival is open to people of all backgrounds and ages, with the public encouraged to wear cheongsam or other suitable traditional attire and join the celebration.
Should haze conditions make outdoor activities unhealthy, the event will be moved indoors to the community hall.
Senior citizens interested in participating in the record attempt can register by submitting their name and details to Crystal at 010-767 0660.
For further details, visit the Sarawak Federation of Chinese Women Association Facebook page. – DayakDaily
