KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) launched the ‘Two Ages, One Runway: A Generation Fashion Show’ initiative aimed at strengthening intergenerational bonds and promoting an inclusive, family-oriented community on Thursday.
This initiative places children and senior citizens at the heart of community engagement, reflecting MBKS’ commitment to social harmony, mutual respect and shared values.
MBKS Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, said the programme recognises children as the future generation and senior citizens as the source of wisdom, experience and values.
“By bringing both generations together, the council hopes to nurture understanding, compassion and stronger family ties within the community,” he said.
“Through the initiative, MBKS hopes to gain international recognition.”
On December 4, 2025, the city was officially announced as a Candidate City under UNICEF’s Child Friendly Cities Initiative, making it the first local council in Borneo to receive the recognition.
MBKS has also been a member of the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities since 2024.
“These recognitions reflect our belief that a liveable city is one where children feel safe, heard and empowered, and where senior citizens feel respected, supported and valued,” Wee added.
The programme also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through the promotion of active ageing and positive social interaction, SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing learning opportunities beyond the classroom that nurture creativity and empathy, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by encouraging collaboration among local authorities, families, schools and community organisations.
The ‘Two Ages, One Runway’ fashion show aims to promote intergenerational harmony by pairing grandparents and grandchildren on the runway.
“The walk symbolises trust, love and shared life journeys, while helping children appreciate ageing and giving seniors a sense of pride, dignity and active participation in community life.
“This programme helps build children’s confidence and social skills, encourages respect for the elderly, reduces the generation gap through shared experiences and promotes active, healthy and positive ageing,” Wee said.
Participation in the fashion show is limited to 35 pairs and will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Prizes include RM1,000 for first place, RM700 for second and RM500 for third, with 10 consolation prizes of RM200 each.
