By Ma Chee Seng
KUCHING, Aug 17: The skies may have opened up over Padang Merdeka on Saturday evening (Aug 16), but the rain could not dim the glow of the Kuching Street Parade 2025.
As droplets shimmered under the streetlights, a total of 54 contingent and 2,000 performers dressed in neon-lit costumes twirled, danced, and laughed their way down the parade route.
Their clothes, alive with streaks of bright pink, green, and electric blue, seemed to paint the night itself, turning the drizzle into a sparkling backdrop rather than a setback.
Spectators huddled under umbrellas and raincoats, yet many couldn’t resist swaying to the rhythm of the drums and cheers echoing through the heart of the city. The parade became less about staying dry and more about celebrating together, as the energy of the crowd matched the vibrancy of the performers.
The night carried a romantic air as Kuching, often called the City of Cats, seemed to purr under the misty drizzle and shimmering lights. Couples held hands tighter, families laughed together, and friends snapped photos, capturing moments that felt dreamlike against the neon glow.
Far from dampening spirits, the rain added a touch of poetry to the night. The Kuching Street Parade did not just march; it danced, sparkled, and reminded everyone why the city’s heart beats strongest when people come together.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, representing the Premier of Sarawak; Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; and Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah were present.
They were also accompanied by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Office (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan; Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni.
In addition, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, and Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ali were also in attendance. — DayakDaily
