KUCHING: The Padungan Chinese New Year (CNY) Street Festival celebrates more than 100 years of history, reflecting Padungan’s role as a hub for commerce and the livelihoods of its community.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said Padungan is not just a street or a commercial area, but a neighbourhood with a heart and a history spanning more than a century, where many families have built their livelihoods generation after generation.
“Shops have been passed down, friendships have grown, and countless memories have been created along these streets. This strong sense of community is what gives Padungan its unique character,” he said.
He said this in his text speech read by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, during the opening of the Padungan CNY Street Festival at Padungan on Saturday night (Feb 7).
Dr Sim highlighted the murals along Padungan Street, which illustrate the rich history of traditional trades and livelihoods in the area.
“As we celebrate tonight, Padungan’s rich history is also brought to life through seven murals installed along Padungan Street.
“Each mural illustrates the traditional trades and livelihoods that have shaped Padungan over the past century.
“These murals are a visual tribute to the merchants, craftsmen and families who built this area and kept it thriving for more than 100 years,” he said.
The festival, which runs from Feb 6 to 15, began as an idea by local merchants who wanted to celebrate CNY together while bringing joy, vibrancy and positive energy back to Padungan.
“Over the years, that idea has grown into a cherished annual tradition. Padungan Street becomes a shared space for everyone.
“It is a place where neighbours meet, families come together, children enjoy the festivities, and visitors experience the warmth and hospitality of the Padungan community.
“It is about celebrating our traditions while strengthening bonds between residents, traders and visitors. It also provides an important opportunity for our local businesses to thrive during the festive season,” said Dr Sim.
Throughout the festival, the public can look forward to a variety of programmes, including 24 festive drums performances, lion and dragon dances, Chinese orchestra performances, cultural dances, live band performances and singing competitions, along with many other festive activities.
