Advertisements
A Grand Celebration of Chinese Culture in Sarawak
KUCHING, 12 September – Sarawak is once again embracing the vibrant tapestry of Malaysian culture as the 39th National Chinese Cultural Festival makes its way to Kuching. Hosted by the Xilian Chinese Society Federation and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts of Sarawak, the festival highlights Malaysia’s rich multicultural heritage. The festivities kicked off this afternoon at the Lee Onn Lian Building, where the sacred flame was ceremoniously passed, symbolizing the unity and strength of the Chinese community in Sarawak.
Torch Handover Ceremony: A Symbol of Heritage
The torch relay began with the Chairman of the General Assembly, Datuk Huang Liangjie, passing the sacred flame to Datuk Chen Yuetzhi, Chairman of the Liian Group and Honorary Advisor of the Conference. The flame was then handed to Kuching’s own Chen Junyi and Kapitan Tan Kun Gee, who proudly held the torch, marking a significant moment in the cultural journey across Sarawak.
Tomorrow, on Friday, September 13, at 3:00 PM, the torch walk will continue at the Kuching China No.1 Middle School Sports Ground. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts of Sarawak, Chen Chao Yao, will carry the torch to the South Municipal Council, where it will be handed over to Mayor Datuk Huang Hongsheng. The torch relay will culminate in a welcome banquet at CityOne Happy Shangri-La, celebrating the unity and diversity of Chinese culture.
National Chinese Cultural Festival Torch Run: Journey Across Sarawak
The torch run, which began on June 22 in Limbang, has traveled across various towns and cities in Sarawak, including Miri, Bintulu, Mukah, Kapit, Sibu, Sarikei, Sri Aman, and Samarahan. The journey not only symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese community but also promotes the message of multicultural coexistence in Malaysia.
Advertisements
Program Itinerary
- 22 June – 13 September: Sarawak Torch Run through Limbang, Miri, Bintulu, Mukah, Kapit, Sibu, Sarikei, Sri Aman, Serian, and Samarahan.
- 13 September (Friday): The torch walk begins at the CHMS1 Football Field at 3:00 PM, followed by the torch lighting ceremony at South City Hall at 4:00 PM, and concludes with a welcome dinner at 6:30 PM at CityOne Happy Shangri-La.
A Weekend Full of Cultural Activities
The festival will continue through the weekend with a series of exciting activities celebrating Chinese culture and heritage:
- 14 September (Saturday)
- 8:30 AM: Calligraphy Competition at CHMSI
- 9:00 AM: Chinese Chess Competition at CHMS4
- 10:00 AM: Kuching Old Street Tour and a visit to the Borneo Culture Museum
- 2:00 PM: Traditional Tuak Tasting at the Borneo Tuak Festival, Pullman Kuching
- 3:00 PM: Lantern Making Competition at Seng Ong Kong Temple
- 5:00 PM: Hakka Lion Head Making Workshop at the Kuching Waterfront
- 6:00 PM: Creative Lantern Parade Competition and Food Festival at Carpenter Street, Kuching
- 15 September (Sunday)
- 9:30 AM: Uncovering the Culture of Farmhouses at the Sarawak Cultural Village
- 2:00 PM: Traditional Rice Wine Tasting at the Borneo Rice Wine Festival, Pullman Hotel Kuching
- 6:00 PM: National Cultural Festival Closing Ceremony at Kuching Waterfront
Promoting Multicultural Coexistence in Sarawak
The 39th National Chinese Cultural Festival is not just a celebration of Chinese heritage; it is a testament to the vibrant multiculturalism that defines Sarawak. Events like these highlight the importance of cultural understanding and cooperation, bringing together diverse communities in a spirit of unity.
Focus on Cultural Development and Diversity
As Sarawak continues to develop as a hub for cultural exchange, festivals like the National Chinese Cultural Festival play a crucial role in promoting harmony among its people. With the support of the Federation of Chinese Societies in Sarawak and various local authorities, the festival serves as a beacon of cultural pride and a celebration of the diverse heritage that makes Sarawak truly unique.
The 39th National Chinese Cultural Festival invites all Sarawakians and Malaysians to partake in the festivities, experience the rich traditions, and celebrate the spirit of multiculturalism that drives our nation forward.
Advertisements