By Christopher Lidom and Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 5: The streets of Kuching were lit up with colourful and energetic displays, including dance performances during the Kuching Street Parade 2023.
Flagged off by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew at 6pm, the 2.5km parade began from the Travillion area, Jalan Petanak and made its way to Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman here.
The parade is held in conjunction with the 60th Sarawak Merdeka celebration and continues until the end of the night. It will also be held in Sibu on Aug 12 and in Miri on Aug 19.
A total of 60 contingents with about 2,400 participants from various government departments and agencies, non-governmental associations (NGO), higher learning institutions, Village Security and Development Committees (JKKKs), and local ethnic associations participated in the parade.
Gracing the event earlier tonight was Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, together with other distinguished guests.
Members of the public started to gather as early as 5pm for the parade, and some even stayed put for the continuation of the parade later into the night.
The highlight of the parade was when each contingent showcased a performance before the main stage, where they were evaluated by a panel of judges. The winner will be announced on Sept 9.
At the end of the parade, the highly spirited crowd were entertained with a spectacular and shimmering display of fireworks evoking awe by colouring the night sky at Kuching Waterfront. — DayakDaily
