By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 24: All participants in this year’s Sarawak Regatta are required to wear life jackets, a new safety measure introduced by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts to prevent accidents or fatalities.
Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the rule marks the first time that such a safety requirement has been made mandatory for all competing rowers, including those in traditional perahu bida.
“This is the first time such a rule is enforced, and I’ve observed a very positive response from boat owners.
“It’s part of our efforts to enhance safety and prevent accidents or fatalities, as last year we witnessed a tragedy. Our hope is that such incidents will not happen again in this year’s Regatta,” he told reporters when met at the launch of the Sarawak Regatta, Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025, and Kuching Waterfront Festival 2025 at the Kuching Waterfront today.
The event was officiated by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun openg.
The Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025, which officially opened today, has already made history with a record-breaking 2,143 paddlers from 22 countries, the largest turnout since the event’s inception.
The strong international response, he said, reflects the event’s growing global reputation and its contribution to local tourism and hospitality.
“For the International Dragon Boat event, we have reached the maximum number of participating countries, 22 nation, which is unprecedented in the history of the festival,” he said, noting that over 2,000 paddlers are currently in Kuching for the competition.
The 11th edition of the International Dragon Boat Regatta runs from Oct 24 to 26, featuring over 60 teams competing across seven categories, including the International Premier Open 20’s, International Premier Mixed 12’s, International Masters Open 12’s (for participants aged 40 and above), International Cancer Survivors Open, and the newly introduced Battle of the Dragons (Dragon Tug) 6’s.
New participating nations this year include England, Ireland, Canada, Abu Dhabi, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Macao, and Mongolia, joining returning teams from countries such as the United States, Spain, Japan, Iran, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, and Malaysia (Sarawak, Sabah, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur).
The festival continues into the second weekend, from Oct 31 to Nov 2, with the iconic Sarawak Regatta, one of the State’s most beloved cultural and sporting events, culminating in the crowning of the Raja Sungai (King of the River) on Nov 2, to be witnessed by the Sarawak Governor.
Abdul Karim added that the ministry’s focus this year extends beyond safety to improving the overall visitor experience and economic impact of the festival.
Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy cultural performances, drum shows, and an expanded craft bazaar, which last year generated more than RM2 million in sales within a single week. This year, all craft stalls are air-conditioned to provide a more comfortable shopping experience.
“We are delighted to see such tremendous public enthusiasm this year. With better safety measures, greater participation, and improved facilities, we hope this year’s festival will be one of the best and safest yet,” he added. — DayakDaily
