By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 10: Interest in the Kuching Festival Food Fair has soared this year with a total of 741 stall applications received — marking an 18.5 per cent increase from 627 applications in 2024, signalling strong community enthusiasm and growing entrepreneurial momentum around the beloved event.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng revealed the figures during his ShallWeeTalk live session today, noting a consistent rise in applications across all stall categories.
“This year, we saw a 5.5 per cent rise in half stall applications from 219 to 230, a 15.5 per cent jump in single stall applications from 248 to 287, and a remarkable 40 per cent surge in premier stall applications from 160 to 224,” he said.
A total of 330 stalls will be allocated for the 2025 edition of the fair, which will run from July 25 to August 17 at the MBKS grounds.
Wee assured that despite the overwhelming response, the selection process will be conducted transparently and fairly.
“We are doing our best to prepare the festival, ensuring that all sectors of the community, at all ages, can enjoy the festival,” he said.
This year’s event will also introduce exciting new competitions for the first time — including K-pop dance, cosplay, and pickleball, designed to attract younger audiences and diversify the festival’s entertainment offerings.
“We’re even working to bring in a special performance combining arts and innovation. Talks are ongoing to make that a reality,” he added.
Wee reiterated the festival’s core mission of empowering grassroots entrepreneurs — particularly home-based bakers and cooks — by giving them a platform to innovate, improve their offerings, and reach broader markets.
“Our objective remains to help and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity through food, while also helping them earn extra income amid rising living costs and economic uncertainty,” he said.
Beyond the food fair, the three-week-long festival will feature a rich line-up of activities including the Garden Show, Kuching Got Talent, Mayor’s Walk, Zumba Fiesta, Folk Dance Showcase, Martial Arts Display, Traditional Oriental Music Night, and the International Friendship Cities Night featuring performers from China and Japan.
Also returning are the Kuching Half Marathon and a fishing competition, both aimed at promoting health, fitness, and outdoor recreation.
With preparations well underway, Wee expressed hope that this year’s edition will surpass the success of previous years, further cementing the festival as one of Sarawak’s most vibrant community and cultural celebrations. — DayakDaily
