By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 7: The highly anticipated Kuching Food Festival 2026 is set to undergo a major transformation, with international participation expected to elevate the event into a regional culinary showcase.
Describing the upcoming edition as a “game changer”, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the festival’s expanded international dimension aligns with Kuching’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
“This year’s Kuching Festival will see a big difference. It will be a game changer where there will be international participation,” he said during a press conference announcing the 2026 Padungan Chinese New Year Reunion Street Festival at a restaurant in Padungan today.
He added that traders, particularly those operating in Padungan, should be prepared to capitalise on the opportunities created by the festival’s expanded scale.
“As a council, we’re not allowed to do business, but we support businesses. I hope those trading here will get ready to ride on what we have done,” he said.
Wee noted that Padungan has successfully emerged as a street food hub and is well-positioned to play a key role in strengthening Kuching’s culinary identity.
“Padungan is a good place to concentrate on food, especially with Kuching’s status as a Creative City of Gastronomy under UNESCO. In fact, we have also been tasked to lead the Creative City for Gastronomy in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.
He also welcomed the formation of the Padungan Merchant Association, saying collective effort and teamwork are essential for long-term success.
“Try to help each other and work as a team, then you will be stronger. There’s only one mission, and that is to make sure Padungan becomes a must-visit place for tourists,” he said.
Wee reiterated that the council would continue to play its role in upgrading infrastructure and enhancing the street’s appeal, while urging stakeholders to ensure businesses remain active beyond early evening hours.
“We must do our part, and the council will play our role. Work together so that Padungan will thrive into the night, rather than closing at 8pm. Only then can it truly become the Chinatown of Sarawak,” he said. — DayakDaily
