KUCHING: Cultural diversity and community unity will take centre stage at the Kuching Festival 2026 through a special Martial Arts Showcase featuring practitioners from nine different disciplines at the Sarawak Hockey Stadium on August 14.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, said the programme, scheduled from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, will bring together exponents of Taiji, Taekwondo, Wushu, Judo, Silat, Muay Thai, Kuntau, Wing Chun Kuen and Qi Gong in a celebration of shared values that transcend cultural boundaries.
“Each martial art carries its own philosophy and cultural identity, yet they all embrace universal values such as discipline, perseverance, respect, humility, self-control and resilience,” he said.
He mentioned this during the presentation of a RM20,000 sponsorship by Natural Avenue Sdn Bhd for the Martial Arts Showcase held in conjunction with Kuching Festival 2026 at Level 3A, Committee Room, MBKS, on Thursday (July2).
Wee said the event is designed not only to entertain visitors but also to encourage active living, strengthen community bonds and inspire young people to develop confidence, teamwork and responsibility through structured martial arts training.
According to him, the showcase also serves as a platform for people from diverse cultural backgrounds to come together in the spirit of mutual respect and understanding while promoting both physical fitness and mental well-being.
“As a UNICEF-recognised Child Friendly City and Age Friendly City, MBKS remains committed to organising programmes that promote active lifestyles, lifelong learning and inclusive community participation,” he said.
Held annually, Kuching Festival continues to be one of the city’s flagship events to boost tourism and support local businesses, with this year’s programme also featuring stage performances, concerts, exhibitions, art galleries, essay writing competitions, and various community activities throughout August.
