KUCHING: The 39th Kuching Festival Fair officially kicked off last night (Aug 1) bringing with it a vibrant celebration of food, youth involvement, and community spirit.
The month-long festival was launched by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) grounds.
In his speech, MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng announced the debut of the Gastronomy Corner, a new feature aimed at highlighting Kuching’s growing reputation as a gastronomic hub.
“This corner celebrates our rich food heritage while providing a platform for talented local chefs, including those who have represented Kuching at national and international levels,” he said.
The Gastronomy Corner forms part of MBKS’ broader Gastronomy Roadmap, a long-term initiative to cultivate culinary talent, encourage food innovation and position Kuching as a leading food destination in the region.
Wee noted that while food may not be the first thing that comes to mind for visitors upon arrival, it often becomes one of the most memorable aspects of their stay.
He urged stall operators to offer not just quality food but also warm hospitality to enhance the overall experience.
This year’s festival also stands out for its strong focus on youth engagement, with many stalls operated by young entrepreneurs and community groups under MBKS’ Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI).
“This is not just a business opportunity. It is a platform for young people to build leadership, teamwork and innovation,” Wee added.
During the launch event, Wee was presented with the Quanzhou Gastronomy Global Promotion Ambassador award by the Quanzhou Office for the Application of UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
The award recognises his efforts in promoting Kuching’s culinary identity on the global stage.
