KUCHING: Confident strides and cheerful smiles filled the runway as children showcased their talents in a festive fashion showcase that drew warm applause from the audience.
This was evident when 20 children from various backgrounds took part in a fashion showcase during the “Christmas Kids Princess 2025” fashion show, held in conjunction with Christmas celebrations at Riverside Shopping Complex yesterday (Dec 28).
From the moment they stepped onto the stage to the way they carried themselves while modelling the outfits, each child radiated confidence and creativity, bringing smiles and entertainment to the audience.
The judging panel consisted of four experts, including Miss Chubby and an active teacher who has previously been involved in judging the Dayak Cultural Festival (DCF).
According to the programme’s founder, Erikson Joe, the event was more than just a fashion competition, it served as a platform for children to learn about mutual understanding, appreciate other cultures, and experience being part of something greater than themselves.
“Through this event, they not only showcase their talents but also learn to understand the true meaning of Christmas, the values of harmony, unity, and mutual respect among different races,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
He added that the Christmas theme was chosen as it is synonymous with the month of December and suitable for celebration by all segments of society in Sarawak.
“The judges assessed not only the creativity of the outfits, but also the participants’ personalities and their understanding of Christmas, making this event more than just an ordinary fashion show.
“This event provides children and teenagers with valuable experience, an opportunity to showcase their talents, and a platform to highlight mutual understanding and respect among Sarawak’s ethnic groups,” he added.
Elaborating on the response, he revealed that participation from the community was very encouraging, with entries from the Malay, Chinese, Iban, and Bidayuh communities.
As such, he said that if participation and sponsorship increase in the future, the event will be held annually, serving as a space for children to showcase their talents while fostering a spirit of harmony in Sarawak.
At the event, five-year-old Aniah Lee Bong was crowned as one of the standout participants after winning the Darling of the Crown title through popular voting for the Category A finalist.
She received a sash, a crown, a hamper, and cash worth RM200 as part of her win.
Aniah, a Sarawakian and the only child of her mother, Mary Joy (34), shared that this was her daughter’s first experience participating in a Christmas-themed competition.
According to Mary, Aniah had taken part in three other competitions earlier this year, but this was her first time competing in a Christmas event.
“I want my child to be brave, and I want her to learn to be confident in front of the public,” Mary said when met.
She said that preparations for the outfit took several days and were done personally by her, as she wanted to ensure every detail was perfect.
Mary also revealed that Aniah attended a modelling school for several months this year, which greatly helped to build her confidence on stage.
“It is very important to build a child’s confidence. As a mother, I want my child to succeed in everything,” she added.
When asked about Aniah’s excitement, Mary said her daughter wanted to win and take home the crown — a goal that was achieved when Ania secured the Best Dress title.
Mary also advised other parents to encourage and support their children in pursuing their individual interests.
During the programme, 20 young participants from various ethnic backgrounds took part, grouped into Category A (ages 5–9) and Category B (ages 10–15).
