KUCHING: The launch of DBKU’s Events Calendar signals a year of international-level flagship events, featuring long-running and new programmes, with strong overseas participation expected.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the events calendar features around 36 programmes scheduled from Jan to Dec, including both long-standing and new initiatives.
“Many of the events have been organised for years, while this year will also see new additions aimed at attracting both local and international audiences.
“One of the newer events is the Kuching International Arts & Crafts Fair, which made its debut in 2025 and drew participants from 35 countries.
“This year, we aim to welcome even more international participants to take part in this event held in Kuching,” he told reporters after officiating at the launch of 2026 DBKU Events Calendar and Kuching Car Free Morning (KCFM) at Padang Merdeka here today (Jan 18).
He added that the Santubong International Trail Run, held annually, will enter its third year in 2026 and has drawn participants from Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Africa.
Following growing interest, Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) will collaborate with Sarawak Forest Corporation (SFC) to co-organise the run at the foothills of Mount Santubong, using trails within the protected Damai Peninsula area.
Meanwhile, DBKU mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman said that Insyallah, all the necessary infrastructure that meets international standards to ensure the success of these projects and events this year will be provided.
”The Santubong International Trail Run is planned for October and will utilise existing routes at the foothills of Gunung Santubong whereby DBKU will conduct detailed studies on the trail routes to ensure participant safety remains the top priority.
“Although initial studies have been carried out, confirmation and collaboration with other relevant agencies are required.
“As the event involves the Gunung Santubong area, Sarawak Forest Corporation (SFC), which has jurisdiction over the area, will be invited to collaborate. DBKU welcomes cooperation with SFC to ensure the event’s success,” he said.
He added that further assessments will be conducted, and existing routes will be used if approved by SFC. Should alternative routes be proposed by relevant authorities, these will be considered.
“For now, we aim to successfully organise this event for the first time,” he added.
