09-08-2025
Martial arts shine at Kuching Festival in dazzling display of unity
A high-flying martial arts practioner demonstrates his skill during the event. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (Aug 9): The Sarawak Hockey Stadium at Jalan Padungan came alive with colour, energy, and the spirit of unity last night as more than 1,500 participants from 13 martial arts associations showcased their skills at the Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display 2025.
Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng described the evening as a celebration of discipline, respect, courage, and harmony during the launch of the event.
'Tonight is the night when the spirit of martial arts comes alive. Now you can actually see, this is Sarawak.
'You see everyone coming together, regardless of their religion or belief, even our kung fu, we can gather here on the same ground and showcase to everybody what makes Sarawak different,' he said in his speech.
Wee rings the gong to symbolically mark the opening of the Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display 2025. — Photo by Chimon Upon
Wee stressed that the event was more than a display of physical skills, saying martial arts is about building a strong mind and heart, learning that respect comes before victory, and recognising discipline as the real superpower.
He also highlighted Kuching South City Council's guiding principle of inclusivity.
'Our belief is very simple but it's a very powerful principle – no one in Sarawak is left behind. We want everybody to be involved, whether in martial arts, dance, sport – whatever you name it.
'This is how we look forward, and our programmes have been planned for everyone: the little ones taking their first bow, the energetic youth perfecting their moves, and our silver-haired warriors proving that age is no barrier to strength and spirit,' he said.
Wee (centre) presents a certificate of participation to one of the participating associations. — Photo by Chimon Upon
A young participant from the Perguruan Silat Siantong Melayu Asli association reacts enthusiastically during the performance. — Photo by Chimon Upon
Wee expressed his appreciation to the organising committee, instructors, sifus, and parents, noting that such events take months of planning, all for the sake of keeping the flame of martial arts alive.
He also urged the community not to take Sarawak's harmony and unity for granted.
The Kuching Festival Martial Arts Display brought together practitioners from diverse disciplines, from children taking their first steps in the art to seasoned seniors, with every performance moving in harmony to let the audience feel the energy and unity in each precise, powerful motion.
It was more than just kicks, punches, or forms – the crowd responded with cheers and applause, celebrating the performers in a shared spirit of pride and festivity.
A participating association posing for a group photo for the media at the event. — Photo by Chimon Upon Kuching Festival martial arts unity Wee Hong Seng
