KUCHING: The Great British Circus will return to Sarawak this year with a brand-new production, bringing international live entertainment to several cities across the state.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the circus tour will begin from March 20 right up to April 26 at Celebration Square, Sarawak Sports Complex here.
The travelling circus from the United Kingdom previously toured Sarawak in 2024, attracting about 40,000 people across Kuching, Miri and Sibu.
Abdul Karim said Sarawak continues to attract international events and performances as the state strengthens its position as a regional hub for arts and entertainment.
“Tourism in Sarawak has thrived quite well. Last year, we nearly hit our target of five million visitors, coming up just short by about 20,000.
“I am confident that the state will surpass the five-million-visitor target this year in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year, as tourism figures have shown steady year-on-year improvement,” he said during a press conference held at Baitulmakmur II today.
Abdul Karim said the return of the Great British Circus is another addition to the state’s growing list of events aimed at attracting visitors while providing family-friendly entertainment.
“It is the top live circus show in the country and an authentic travelling circus from the UK offering family-oriented entertainment to locals, children and visitors,” he said.
He encouraged families to attend the performances, noting that live shows offer a different experience compared to watching entertainment online.
“Bring your children and family to see these live performances. At least they will see something very different,” he added.
The circus will also tour Sibu, Miri and Bintulu, with Bintulu being added as a new venue for the 2026 Sarawak tour.
Abdul Karim noted that Sarawak has continued to host numerous events throughout the year as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s tourism and entertainment sectors.
“Practically almost every week, there is an event somewhere in Sarawak supported by the ministry. Last year alone, we supported about 305 events across the state,” he said.
He added that such programmes help create vibrancy across Sarawak, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have access to a variety of cultural, entertainment and tourism activities.
Meanwhile, according to Great British Circus founder Kiril Yordanov Kirilov, the upcoming production will feature a completely new theme titled “Legend of the Sea.”
“This time, we have prepared something very special. It’s a water show involving lights, sea creatures and characters inspired by the legend of Atlantis,” he said.
The production will feature a larger yellow-and-blue circus tent, upgraded staging technology and a water-based performance arena complete with fountains and waterfalls.
Kiril said feedback from the 2024 tour was overwhelmingly positive, prompting organisers to return to Sarawak with a new concept and expanded tour locations.
“It is a great family event for everyone, from children to adults. People loved it last time, and they wanted us to come back,” he said.
He added that the circus’ Big Top tent can accommodate about 800 spectators per show, providing audiences with a close-up live circus experience.
Abdul Karim added that events such as the circus tour also contribute to the local economy as visitors spend on accommodation, food and transportation.
“When we have performances like this, people come in and stay in hotels. Food vendors, transport providers and other businesses also benefit,” he said.
He also called on corporate organisations to support the event by sponsoring tickets for children from underprivileged institutions such as welfare homes and autism associations.
