KUCHING: Sarawak welcomed 2026 in spectacular fashion as the state celebrated a historic achievement at the Kuching Waterfront, securing a Guinness World Record (GWR) through a landmark drone relay journey that spanned 1,706.7 kilometres across the state.
The state was officially recognised for achieving the Longest Cumulative Distance by a Remote-Controlled Multirotor/Drone Relay, the first accomplishment of its kind.
The relay covered a distance of 1,706.7 kilometres over six days, using successive GPS-tracked drones to chart an unbroken aerial route from Tanjung Datu to Lawas.
The achievement was confirmed on stage by Guinness World Records adjudicator, Jacob Yip Chong Wai, from Hong Kong, who then presented the certificate to Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
“This Guinness World Record achievement represents Sarawak’s confidence as a progressive, united and forward-looking state.
“It reflects who we are today, a Sarawak that embraces innovation while remaining deeply rooted in our culture, people and landscapes.
“As the Gateway to Borneo, this moment belongs not only to Sarawak, but also to the region we connect and the future we are shaping together,” said Abdul Karim in a statement.
The announcement was followed by the world premiere of the ‘Gateway to Borneo’ drone film, a cinematic showcase highlighting Sarawak’s landscapes, cultures and communities from a bird’s-eye perspective.
The milestone also signalled Sarawak’s readiness to build momentum towards Visit Malaysia Year 2026, leveraging creativity, technology and storytelling to strengthen its profile as a vibrant and globally relevant destination.
Thousands gathered at the Kuching Waterfront on New Year’s Eve for Countdown 2026, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP).
The event featured over 10 performances by local, national and international artistes, capped by a dazzling musical fireworks display at midnight.
Performances by KRU, Dayang Nurfaizah, Jatt Ali, Naqiu and local creative talents continued the celebration, followed by a post-concert show by Indonesian singer, Judika.
The successful staging of Countdown 2026 and the Guinness World Record feat marked a proud milestone for Sarawak and left a lasting legacy that will continue to promote the state throughout Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and beyond.
