By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 2: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has received a RM20,000 sponsorship from Natural Avenue Sdn Bhd to support the Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display 2026.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the company has supported the Kuching Festival for more than 25 years, demonstrating its strong commitment to community development and corporate social responsibility.
“The continued partnership between the private sector and the City Council is vital in ensuring that the Kuching Festival remains vibrant, meaningful and accessible to the public.
“Natural Avenue’s generosity enables us to organise programmes that not only entertain, but also inspire healthier lifestyles, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen community bonds,” he said when speaking during the sponsorship handover ceremony held at MBKS building today.
The Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display will be held on Aug 14 from 7pm to 10pm at the Sarawak Hockey Stadium, featuring demonstrations in Taiji, Taekwondo, Wushu, Judo, Silat, Muay Thai, Kuntau, Wing Chun Kuen and Qi Gong.
Wee said the event is more than a showcase of martial arts skills, as it also promotes values such as discipline, perseverance, respect, humility, self-control and resilience.
He added that martial arts provide young people with a positive avenue for character development through structured training that instils dedication, teamwork, responsibility and healthy lifestyles.
“Beyond physical fitness, martial arts also bring people together. The various disciplines showcased during this event represent different cultures and traditions, demonstrating how diversity can be celebrated through mutual respect and shared appreciation.
“In a multicultural city like Kuching, such programmes help foster harmony, understanding and unity among people from all walks of life,” he added.
Wee also said the martial arts showcase aligns with MBKS’ commitment as an Age-Friendly City and a UNICEF Child Friendly City by promoting active living, lifelong learning and meaningful community participation.
He expressed appreciation to Natural Avenue for its contribution, saying the company’s support over the past two decades has played an important role in making the Kuching Festival one of Sarawak’s most anticipated annual celebrations.
Wee also invited the public to attend the martial arts display with their families and friends to celebrate the rich traditions, skills and enduring spirit of martial arts.
Also present were Kuching Festival 2026 deputy organising chairman Cr Chai Ju Loon, Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display 2026 organising chairman Cr Othman Bujang, Natural Avenue Sdn Bhd general manager Leong Yen Siong, senior manager of Agency and Betting Operations Angeline Yeo, manager Lidwina Chung, Sarawak Tuft Club vice president John Ko and manager Jonus Ko. — DayakDaily
