KUCHING: The Kuching Festival 2025 which came to a grand conclusion yesterday, drew thousands of festival-goers to its finale at the MBKS grounds where they were treated to ‘Meniti Cakerawala 2.0’, an awe-inspiring performance that bridged science and the arts.
Since its opening on July 25, the Kuching Festival 2025, was replete with culture, music, food and celebration that transformed the city into a bustling hub of creativity and community spirit, drawing residents and tourists alike.
An elated Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community, sponsors, and the city’s tireless municipal staff.
“How time flies when there is joy in the air, laughter in our hearts, and a community coming together.The Kuching Festival is not just an event; it is the soul of our city,” he said, praising the dedication of MBKS staff, who had worked for irs success.
During the stellar finale, for the first time, Kuching audiences were treated to Meniti Cakerawala 2.0, an awe-inspiring performance co-created by Malaysia’s pioneering astrophysicist Tan Sri Mazlan Othman and renowned dancer-choreographer Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, where the production explored the intersection of cosmic discovery and human creativity.
Described as a ‘bridge between the cosmos and the human spirit’, the performance was made possible through the efforts of Delphic Malaysia and Vicky Fong, and also the Sutra Foundation, ensuring a dazzling artistic presentation that captivated the crowd.
Wee said to have this performance staged here was both an honour and a privilege.
“It shows that our city is not only ready to host great festivals of food and music, but also productions that inspire, challenge, and uplift the mind and soul,” he said.
This year’s edition of the festival further reinforced Kuching’s standing as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The city’s culinary heritage was on full display, drawing food enthusiasts from across the region to taste and celebrate local and international flavours.
One of the standout moments of the festival was the Oriental Traditional Music concert, a powerful celebration of Sarawak’s multicultural identity.
That evening, representatives from the Hindu Temple Association Kuching, Dayak Cultural Foundation, Unimas, and Majlis Seni Sarawak shared the same stage, blending traditions in a harmonious musical performance.
A particularly moving highlight came when a young girl in a hijab sang the beloved Chinese classics ‘Mo Li Hua’ and ‘Tian Mi Mi’, capturing the hearts of the audience.
“It was a beautiful moment that showed us the true meaning of Satu Sarawak, harmony in diversity, unity through music,” said Wee.
Another unforgettable event was the Kuching Zumba Fiesta, where thousands gathered to dance their way into the history books.
The high-energy event broke two records in the Malaysia Book of Records, showcasing Kuching’s vibrant spirit and community unity.
“Together, we didn’t just dance, we made history. That’s the Kuching spirit: energy, unity, and joy, all in one,” he said.
He also acknowledged the vital role of the festival’s sponsors, calling them the ‘heartbeat behind the scenes’.
“Your generosity made it possible to deliver this festival on such a grand scale, while keeping it inclusive and accessible for all. Thank you for believing in what we do, and for being part of the Kuching Festival family,” he said.
Meanwhile, deputy mayor, who is also the organising chairman, Dato Zaeidi Suhaili said over the course of the festival, more than 18 programmes were successfully staged, from cultural performances to music concerts, sports activities to community engagement events.
“All of this could not have been achieved without the tireless efforts of our organising committee, councillors, MBKS staff, volunteers, and partners. I wish to express my deepest gratitude for your dedication, time, and unwavering spirit,” he said.
