By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 25: Traditional drums from Japan, classical Chinese dance, Shaolin martial arts, haunting guzheng melodies and poetic vocal solos lit up the stage tonight as the International Friendship Cities Night returned in full splendour at the MBKS grounds, marking one of the most colourful and anticipated highlights of Kuching Festival 2025.
Featuring over a dozen performances from Kuching’s sister cities in China and Japan, the evening transported audiences across cultures and continents through music, movement and storytelling.
Among the standout acts were the teacher-student classical dance ‘The Unity of the Land’ from Zhenjiang (Jiangsu), a powerful solo vocal ‘Ode to Coral’ by Wang Nina of Tai’an (Shandong), a thundering Japanese traditional drum performance from Asuke, Toyota City, and an action-packed Shaolin martial arts routine by performers from Zhengzhou (Henan).
The night also featured the whimsical ‘Little Monk Descends the Mountain’ from Quanzhou (Fujian), a guzheng solo ‘High Mountains and Flowing Water’, a classical duet ‘Lotus Drum Melody’, and a comical puppet piece ‘Monkey Delight’.
The grand finale came with ‘Tarian Buluh Melanau’ by local Sarawak performers, bringing the show home with a burst of local flavour.
Over three nights from July 25 to 27, the event offers audiences a rare window into the cultural soul of Kuching’s friendship cities, with each night featuring a unique programme of music, dance and tradition.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, in his officiating speech, said the event reflects Kuching’s growing global ties and commitment to international friendship.
He emphasised that the relationships between MBKS and cities such as Quanzhou, Zhenjiang, Tai’an, Zhengzhou, and Asuke go far beyond protocol.
“They represent our shared belief in the power of people-to-people connection.
“Through cultural exchanges, youth programmes and business partnerships, we are building bridges that benefit everyday people such as our students, artists and entrepreneurs,” he said.
Wee added that International Friendship Cities Night is a key pillar of the Kuching Festival, not just for its entertainment value but for how it strengthens Kuching’s identity as a globally connected and culturally vibrant city.
“To the people of Kuching—don’t miss this rare chance to witness global cultures come alive right here in Kuching.
“Bring your families, bring your friends, and immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds and stories from around the world,” he added.
Earlier in the evening, organising chairman Cr Chai Ju Loon welcomed guests and delegates, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all international performers and representatives for travelling great distances to participate.
“Through these performances, we hope to deepen understanding between our peoples, encourage cultural appreciation and build lasting friendships that transcend borders,” he said.
The International Friendship Cities Night 2025 continues until July 27 at the MBKS grounds with performances starting nightly at 7.45pm. Admission is free and open to the public. — DayakDaily
