SIBU: The Sibu Jaya Water Festival (SJWF) 2025, which was participated by more than 2,000 people from various ethnic groups today, has further strengthened its position as one of the most anticipated community events and a symbol of Sibu Jaya’s growth as a rapidly developing town.
Sibu Rural District Council’s (SRDC’s) Chairman, Sempurai Petrus Ngelai, said that the annual festival, which was inaugurated in 2018, has grown from a simple community celebration to a dynamic event that combines elements of leisure, cultural expression, and economic impact.
“This is not just about water activities and having fun, the SJWF reflects the identity, unity and aspirations of our community.
“It brings families together, attracts visitors, and positions Sibu Jaya as a cultural and lifestyle destination,” he said in his speech during the festival’s opening ceremony held at East Boulevard, Sibu Jaya here.
The festival is jointly organised by Amcorp Sibu Jaya Sdn Bhd and SRDC with the support of the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
Now entering its sixth edition, it has only been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
According to Sempurai, the warm reception received each year shows the growing pride of the community in the development of Sibu Jaya.
“This festival reflects our collective spirit. Sibu Jaya is not just a residential area; it is developing into a centre for recreation, tourism and cultural diversity,” he added.
Apart from the water-based activities and traditional games that are the main attractions of the festival, this year’s edition also features a great line-up of entertainment performances.
Among the famous local artistes invited to perform are Ramles Walter, Winnie Albert and Harry Francis.
Family-oriented side programmes such as food fair, cultural exhibitions and activities for children are also included in the event, making the entire Sibu Jaya area lively throughout the weekend.
Sempurai said that the inclusion of music, art and cultural performances was in line with the council’s vision to make Sibu Jaya more than just a residential area.
“We want Sibu Jaya to be known as a town that lives with a combination of culture, economy and community that grow together,” he stressed.
The festival is also said to have helped boost small businesses and local traders in Sibu Jaya.
Food stalls, handicraft sales and local entrepreneurs took advantage of the large number of visitors to display and sell their products, thus contributing to the local economy.
With the success achieved every year, this event has become a tourist attraction for visitors from Sibu town and surrounding areas, further adding to Sibu Jaya’s reputation as a rapidly growing suburban centre.
Among those present was a political secretary to the Premier, Joshua Ting Fu Ying.
