By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, July 31: Kota Samarahan is set for a lively weekend as Jom Heboh brings three nights of concerts featuring popular artistes from Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, promising entertainment, excitement, and large crowds until Sunday (Aug 2).
The three-day carnival, held at the grounds beside the Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS), is making its debut in Kota Samarahan after previously being hosted only in Kuching.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the first day had already attracted many visitors from Samarahan and the surrounding areas.
“I believe that tomorrow and the following day, while Jom Heboh is still ongoing, word of mouth will attract even more visitors, and I expect this area to become busier.
“I am also informed that there will be concerts over all three nights. Tonight’s performances will feature Sarawakian artistes and local performances, while tomorrow and the final night will showcase many artistes from Peninsular Malaysia who are closely associated with Media Prima and TV3,” he told reporters after a walkabout at the carnival today.
He invited residents from Samarahan, Kuching, Serian, Bau and nearby areas to visit the carnival and enjoy the weekend activities.
Besides the nightly concerts, Abdul Karim said visitors can explore exhibition booths from government agencies, browse a variety of food and merchandise stalls, and take advantage of the Rahmah Sale, which offers goods at attractive prices.
“I am quite impressed with what I have seen. Government agencies are showcasing their services, as well as many food and merchandise stalls,” he said.
He said programmes such as Jom Heboh serve not only as entertainment but also as an effective platform to bring government agencies closer to the public.
Abdul Karim also described Kota Samarahan as a suitable venue for the event, noting that the area is home to two public universities and several teacher education institutions.
He also expects the carnival grounds to be packed with students and residents throughout the weekend. — DayakDaily
