By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 29: Miri City is further cementing its role as a regional cultural hub with the return of the fourth edition of The Taste of Borneo Carnival, scheduled from July 1 to 12.
This year’s event will see expanded international participation, including delegations from Indonesia, Brunei, Sabah, and marking a first, Yunnan, China.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Miri City Mayor Adam Yii said the growing international involvement reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a centre for cultural exchange in the region.
“Among the main attractions this year is the continued participation of Indonesia, Brunei and Sabah, alongside a new addition from Yunnan, China,” he told a press conference after a courtesy visit to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex today.
A key highlight of the programme will be the formalisation of a Friendship City relationship between Miri and the Lijiang Municipal Council on July 4, an event that will be witnessed by the Premier.
The initiative was sparked by the carnival committee’s visit to Yunnan in 2025, where they observed strong cultural parallels between ethnic communities in Yunnan and those in Borneo, including shared heritage links among several groups.
Beyond cultural collaboration, the partnership is also expected to open new avenues in tourism and education cooperation between both regions.
Organisers also noted that this year’s carnival will feature participation from 24 ethnic associations, the highest to date, underscoring the unity and diversity of Miri’s multiracial community.
The milestone is also set to be submitted for recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) under the category of highest ethnic participation in a single street parade event, involving all 24 associations. — DayakDaily
