By Shikin Louis
BAU, Sept 28: Siniawan town was transformed into a lively cowboy haven as the 8th Siniawan Country Music Festival (SCMF) came alive with thousands of visitors dressed in cowboy hats, jeans, boots and belt buckles, filling the heritage town with the spirit of the Wild West.
The atmosphere on the second night yesterday (Sept 27) was electrifying when more than 100 people crowded the dance floor at one point, moving in rhythm to live country tunes performed by bands. The spacious open area proved to be a blessing, giving dancers plenty of room to swing, shuffle and stomp freely.
Those not on the dance floor still immersed themselves in the jovial atmosphere, enjoying food and drinks with family and friends, snapping photographs with fellow cowboy-themed visitors, and even striking up conversations with strangers turned new friends.
“Yeehaw!” echoed in the air as laughter and country beats carried through the night.
Beyond the main stage, the Siniawan Night Market added to the excitement as visitors thronged the rows of shophouses to buy food and beverages or dine along the streets, turning the area into a full house. Near The Bikalan restaurant, street musicians kept the rhythm alive with impromptu performances, ensuring country music resonated through every corner of the heritage town.
The festival this year is especially significant as it coincides with four grand celebrations: the completion of the Siniawan Waterfront Project, the Siniawan Country Music Festival itself, the 185th Anniversary of Siniawan Historical Town, and the 15th Anniversary of the Siniawan Night Market.
Deputy Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development I (Youth and Sport Development) Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu said Siniawan has become a unique attraction in Greater Kuching where people of all races come together to celebrate.
“This is another part of Greater Kuching where people can come and experience the festivities we have to offer. What makes it special is that it is not limited to one race—everyone comes together here,” he said when met at the venue.
He added that the weekend was also bustling with other events including the Borneo Games in Petra Jaya, the Kuching Inter-Cultural and Mid-Autumn Festival at Carpenter Street, and the Kuching International Cat Parade at Kuching Waterfront, reflecting the Sarawak government’s concerted effort to build Kuching as a City of Unity, City of Gastronomy and City of Handicrafts.
“These festivities create economic activity for all races, especially entrepreneurs. Even in Siniawan tonight, most of those manning the stalls at the night market are young people who now have the opportunity to earn,” he added.
Meanwhile, Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh said this year’s SCMF has drawn a larger turnout thanks to massive promotions rolled out since six months ago, including press coverage and social media campaigns.
“For Day One (Sept 26), we recorded more than 5,000 visitors, which is better than last year. Because we have new and bigger areas now, it is more comfortable with easier access. Tonight, on Day Two, we expect between 7,000 to 8,000 visitors,” he said.
With the combination of music, food, heritage and friendship, Siniawan once again proved why it is fast becoming one of Sarawak’s most anticipated festival towns.
– DayakDaily
