By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 6: Kuching City has the potential to become a prime destination for hosting the prestigious Asia-Pacific Bonsai and Suiseki Exhibition and Conference (ASPAC), which celebrates the dedication and boundless creativity of artisans from around the globe.
Malaysia Bonsai and Suiseki Society (MBBS) president Dato Pui Khiang Khang highlighted that Malaysia has not hosted an international bonsai event for 23 years, since 2001.
“As a proud Sarawakian, I believe Sarawak is ready. We’ve discussed the possibility of hosting the Asia-Pacific bonsai exhibition in Kuching, and I am confident the city can deliver an exceptional event. I look forward to collaborating with our counterparts to support this vision,” he said during the Sarawak Open Bonsai and Suiseki Championship 2024 at La Promenade Mall today.
The event was officiated by Kuching South City Commission (DBKU) mayor Hilmy Othman and attended by Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MBKS) chairman Dato Peter Minos, among other distinguished guests.
Pui also announced that Kuala Lumpur will host the 10th World Bonsai Convention in 2026, marking the first time Malaysia has hosted the event.
Set to welcome around 1,000 bonsai enthusiasts from around the world, the convention will be held from Aug 29-31 at Pavilion Bukit Jalil.
The successful bid was led by MBBS, with support from the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC).
Pui noted the encouraging rise of young bonsai cultivators in Kuching, surpassing their older counterparts in enthusiasm and skill.
“Bonsai used to be associated with older generations, but now, young people are bringing new energy to the industry. I’m thrilled to see them contributing to bonsai’s growth in Malaysia,” he said.
Commenting on the Sarawak championship which entered the third edition this year, Sarawak Bonsai Association (SBA) president Johnson Jong expressed his excitement at the growing international interest in the event, which saw participation from Indonesia for the first time.
“This event not only celebrates the art of bonsai but also the spirit of our community and the dedication of all enthusiasts involved,” he remarked.
Organised by SBA and sponsored by Hock Seng Lee (HSL), the Sarawak Open Bonsai and Suiseki Championship 2024 attracted 200 entries competing across six categories: Extra Large, Large, Medium, Small, Prospect, and Suiseki. Participants showcased their finest bonsai creations, competing for prestigious awards.
The competition featured global bonsai experts, including world-renowned masters from Taiwan—Ho Hsi Chin, Lee Zhong Hong, and Chang Yung Sou — as well as Indonesia’s Rudi Julianto and Budi Sylistyo, who played key roles in the judging process.
The event continues to captivate both bonsai enthusiasts and the public, with its stunning displays of bonsai and suiseki set to inspire visitors throughout the championship. — DayakDaily
