By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 23: Visitors to the Kuching Festival Food Fair 2025 will be treated to a vibrant cultural spectacle this week, as the International Friendship Cities Night brings mesmerising performances from China and Japan, including authentic Shaolin kungfu, traditional string puppetry, and thunderous Japanese Taiko drumming, from July 25 to 27 at the MBKS Theatre.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng today announced that the three-night cultural showcase will kick start the festival in a celebration of international friendship, cultural exchange and unity.
“The performances as part of the International Friendship Cities Night will take place at the MBKS Theater from 7.30pm to 10pm nightly,” he told a press conference at MBKS Headquarters today.
Wee shared that this year’s event will feature delegations from Kuching’s sister and friendship cities of Tai’an (Shandong Province), Zhenjiang (Jiangsu Province), Zhengzhou (Henan Province), Quanzhou (Fujian Province) in China, and Asuke in Toyota City, Japan.
“These esteemed cities have graciously accepted our invitation to travel thousands of miles to Kuching, bringing with them a treasure trove of cultural performances that reflect their rich heritage, artistry, and spirit,” he said.
From Tai’an, audiences can expect captivating performances by students from Taishan University, including a guzheng solo of Lofty Mountains and Flowing Streams, a poetic ode titled Ode to the Coral, dynamic fitness qigong and single knife dance set to Evening Song of the Fishing Boats, a Chinese traditional music ensemble with Tai Chi in Silver Clouds Pursuing the Moon, and a powerful martial arts showcase Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
Zhenjiang’s delegation will present five exquisite Chinese dances, such as Beijing Melodies in Peking Opera style, The Unity of Land, The Little Point, A Very Beautiful Place & Fernleaf Hedge Bamboo Under The Moonlight, and Lotus Drum Melody, a rhythmic display celebrating traditional movement and harmony.
From Quanzhou, audiences will be treated to the enchanting Marionette Show, a traditional string puppet performance that combines intricate craftsmanship with storytelling magic.
One of the major highlights comes from Zhengzhou, where martial artists from the legendary Shaolin Temple will demonstrate authentic Shaolin Kung Fu, renowned globally for its power, precision and discipline.
Representing Japan, the delegation from Asuke, Toyota City will deliver a stirring performance of the Taiko Drum, a dynamic and soul-stirring art form that showcases the strength and spirit of Japanese heritage.
“These performances are not only artistic showcases; they are cultural bridges that foster greater understanding and appreciation among our people. They reflect the shared values of friendship, respect, and peace that our cities uphold,” Wee emphasised
He urged the public to take advantage of this rare opportunity to witness live international cultural performances right at the upcoming Kuching Festival Food Fair without travelling abroad.
“I sincerely invite everyone, families, students, cultural lovers, and members of the public, to come and experience this extraordinary event. Bring your friends and children. Let them witness the colours of China and the rhythm of Japan,” he said.
Admission is free and all are welcome to enjoy the world-class performances each night at the MBKS Theatre. — DayakDaily
