By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 7: The festive spirit radiated through the heart of Kuching City as some 7,000 people gathered for the spectacular Christmas parade, heralding the start of a season filled with joy, love, and togetherness.
From the very first note of the Boys’ Brigade musical bands, the city’s vibrant energy came alive and an infectious excitement rippled through the crowd.
Anticipation buzzed like fairy lights strung across the streets, as the much-loved annual event commenced at the MBKS Jubilee Ground.
Organised by the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS), the parade wove a path of festive cheer and community harmony through Kuching’s streets.
Adorned with vibrant decorations, harmonious carols, and jubilant participants, it perfectly captured the holiday spirit.
Crowds lined the route to catch a glimpse of the colourful floats, each elaborately crafted to spread messages of hope and goodwill.
Nativity scenes, twinkling lights, and symbolic Christmas decorations adorned some 10 floats, with each outshining the last.
Angels in flowing white robes stood majestically on a float, their wings gracefully spread and serene expressions perfectly embodying the night’s theme ‘Peace Be With You/Damai Sejahtera Bersamamu’.
Another float showcasing the Wisemen drew audible gasps of awe, complete with a camel and barrows of symbolic treasures, while shepherds stood amidst clouds of ‘sheep’ and Christmas trees.
Drums pounded in rhythmic unity, trumpets soared high, and the clear, sweet notes of flutes and clarinets filled the December air, creating an immersive auditory experience.
The diversity of Sarawak’s multicultural fabric was on full display as people from different races and religions came together to celebrate, showcasing the unity and inclusivity Kuching is known for.
Representatives from the Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Salvation Army, and Seventh-Day Adventist churches, among others, marched side by side, embodying the unique harmony of faiths and cultures in Sarawak.
The joyful chorus of “Merry Christmas!” echoed through the night, adding warmth to the air and deepening the sense of togetherness.
The city radiated more than the brilliance of Christmas decorations.
Smiles, laughter, and a shared sense of peace filled the air, a heartfelt reminder that the true meaning of Christmas thrives in Kuching.
The Kuching City Christmas Parade 2024 was a shining testament to the enduring power of community, joy, and harmony—a night to cherish and a spirit to carry forward into the holiday season. — DayakDaily
