KUCHING: Heavy rain did little to deter the thousands who gathered for the Kejiranan Mesra (KJM) Fest 2025 recently.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the festival was organised to strengthen community relations and foster a spirit of unity among residents.
“The three-day festival, held from 5 to 7 December, saw more than 5,000 Kuching residents participating in activities ranging from social awareness campaigns and friendly matches to safety education sessions and family programmes.
“The involvement of more than 600 KJM volunteers further demonstrates that the spirit of volunteerism remains strong within our community,” he said.
He said this when officiating the Kejiranan Mesra (KJM) Fest 2025 closing ceremony at Padang Merdeka here today (Dec 7).
Government agencies including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Department, Ministry of Health (KKM), National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), Social Welfare Department (JKM), National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), and various NGOs also played major roles in delivering health and safety messages to the public.
“The strong commitment and support from all parties show that Kuching is not only growing as a modern city but also as a caring community that supports one another and upholds a shared sense of responsibility,” he said.
Meanwhile, DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah said KJM is a strategic initiative aimed at empowering communities to progress alongside Kuching’s urban development while projecting the city’s identity on an international stage.
“Through KJM, we aim to cultivate a society that is united, responsive and capable of facing future challenges through collective strength.
“To date, under DBKU, there are 54 KJM groups across five State Legislative Assembly constituencies, each playing a key role in community activities and strengthening social networks,” he said.
He added that the festival featured a variety of activities for all ages, including the Suara Warisan Singing Competition, Sirih Junjung Competition, Cake Decoration Contest, Chinese Checkers, Nopeng Marathon, E-sports, Futsal, traditional games and more.
“May this festival continue to be a platform for unity, harmony and collective progress.
“And I urge everyone to take care of Kuching’s facilities and beauty so we can all continue to enjoy them together,” Ramzi said, adding that KJM aims to become a model for other city communities in Malaysia.
In conjunction with the event, which coincided with Kuching Car Free Morning, DBKU, together with the Sarawak Health Department (JKNS) and Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, also organised the Red Ribbon Fun Walk 2025 to mark World AIDS Day on 1 December under the theme “End AIDS: Facing Challenges, Transforming Action.”
