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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 28: As the old Chinese expression goes, ‘people mountain people sea’ as Kuching Festival Fair (KFF) 2023 opened its doors for the first day today, creating an electrifying atmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation, packed with Kuchingites eagerly visiting the annual event.
The weather had turned out to be surprisingly pleasant despite the hot temperatures, adding to the festive spirit that enveloped the grounds surrounding the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) at Jalan Padungan here.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng arrived at the festival ground just 40 minutes after the opening, only to be amazed by what he saw.
The place was already teeming with people, and long queues had formed at various stalls.
“I am deeply touched by the overwhelming respond from the public. I want to thank the people from our diverse community for their enthusiastic support for the festival, especially the young entreprenuers who bring fresh and innovative ideas to the event,” he said during a livestream on his social media today.
Even before the official opening time, the festival grounds’ parking areas were already filled to capacity, a testament to the immense popularity and anticipation surrounding KFF 2023.
Wee observed that every vendor and business owner had gone the extra mile to showcase their offerings, including designing their stalls with massive and captivating signages, which demonstrated their dedication to branding and presentation.
He pointed out that over 60 per cent of the vendors this year are new and young entrepreneurs who inject a fresh energy and innovation to the event.
“I hope people will continue to show their full support throughout the remaining 23 days of the festival.
“There are so many talented individuals presenting unique and delicious cuisines and foods. Moreover, the prices, especially for drinks, are quite reasonable,” Wee remarked, praising the vendors’ unity of spirit in making the festival a resounding success.
Wee emphasised that the KFF 2023 is more than just an annual event, but one which embodies the Sarawak spirit of unity, harmony, and togetherness.
“It served as a mini Sarawak, bringing together people of all races, religions, cultures, and backgrounds to celebrate and appreciate each other.
“As such, it is important that Sarawakians continue to preserve these values, the harmony and unity for future generations and to ensure that the festival continues to be a symbol of inclusivity and pride of Sarawak,” he added.
Throughout its journey, the Kuching Festival Fair had come a long way to establish itself as one of the most significant and eagerly awaited festivals in Sarawak, particularly in Kuching. Year after year, it drew massive crowds, solidifying its position as an event that truly belonged to the people.
Behind the scenes, the organisers and stakeholders had worked tirelessly to ensure the festival’s success, and their efforts bore fruit as the festival unfolded with unmatched grandeur and excitement.
Wee also mentioned that the KFF 2023 had even garnered attention beyond Sarawak’s borders, as the Asia Television (ATV) crew will be arriving soon to capture the essence and vibrancy of the festival and bringing its charm to a wider audience. — DayakDaily
