By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 2: Kuching is no longer just “the jungle of Borneo” but a city of international standards, proudly showcasing Sarawak’s spirit of unity, creativity and nation-building, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He emphasised that Kuching’s recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, a WHO age-friendly city, and a UNICEF child-friendly city proves that Sarawak’s capital has come a long way and is setting benchmarks for others.
“There is no reason why our city, despite being in the jungle of Borneo, cannot be better than other international cities,” he said when speaking at the official opening of the Kuching Festival Fair 2025 at MBKS grounds last night (Aug 1).
In his signature blend of wit and insight, Dr Sim said the Kuching Festival is more than just a “makan-makan” affair. It is a celebration of Sarawak’s identity, diversity and entrepreneurial spirit.
“The yellow cat of Kuching is no joke—one million visitors came last year, and another million this year. You want to reach that kind of crowd? You better join Kuching Festival,” he quipped.
Dr Sim highlighted how the festival brings together people of all races including Chinese, Dayak and Malay, who run food stalls side by side, earning together and laughing together. This, he said, is the real Sarawak model of unity, unlike the divisive politics seen in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Here in Sarawak, we sit together, makan together, cari amoi together—and as the late Tok Nan (former Sarawak Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) forgot to say, we gemuk (get fat) together, then go see doctor together. That’s circular economy!” he joked, drawing loud laughter from the crowd.
The festival, which features over 330 stalls and a variety of cultural, fitness and entertainment activities, also serves as a testbed for young entrepreneurs, including university students, professionals and hobbyists.
“It’s not just about selling food. It’s a living lab. Some of them are lawyers or architects who want to share their creativity. Some are students trying out business. If your food fails here, maybe you’re not ready to open a shop,” he said.
The month-long festival is organised by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and is being held at its grounds until Aug 17. It features food galore, cultural performances, talent showcases, sports and community events aimed at people of all ages and backgrounds.
The event also witnessed the appointment of MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng as the Quanzhou Gastronomy Global Promotion Ambassador for a term of two years.
Also present were Dr Sim’s wife Datin Amar Enn Ong; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts II (Creative Industry and Performing Arts) Datuk Snowdan Lawan; MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng; Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman; and China’s Consul General in Kuching, Xing Weiping. — DayakDaily
