a day ago
‘Colour, culture, cheer': Kuching ‘Parade of Lights' shines despite evening rain
Participants from Persatuan Main Asal Dayak Sarawak dressed in traditional attire adorned with lights, adding a striking glow to the parade. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (Aug 16): The Kuching Street Parade, themed 'Parade of Lights', lit up the city centre tonight with bursts of colour, music, and festive spirit, despite a sudden downpour temporarily disrupting the celebration.
The parade began smoothly at 6pm from Travillion Commercial Centre, flagged off by Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman.
More than 2,000 participants from 54 contingents, representing government agencies, the private sector, NGOs, Neighbourhood Committees, and institutions of higher learning, marched proudly through the streets, greeted by cheers and applause from the crowd.
The joyous atmosphere was briefly interrupted around 7.15pm when heavy rain swept across the city, forcing activities to pause.
Participants carrying umbrellas adorned with vibrant lights brighten up the Kuching Street Parade, matching both the theme and the rainy weather. – Photo by Chimon Upon
Guests and spectators waited under shelter while participants stood ready with umbrellas and ponchos.
As the skies cleared, the parade resumed, its vibrant energy returning with dazzling floats, lively performances, and beaming smiles.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, representing Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, arrived at the main stage at Padang Merdeka at 8pm, accompanied by his wife Datin Sri Enn Ong.
They were welcomed by other distinguished guests, including Hilmy; Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng; State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar; and Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.
The main showcase opened with a dance performance by the National Department of Culture and Arts, setting the evening's tone with rhythmic movements and colourful costumes.
DBKU contingent thrills the crowd with a fire-breathing act accompanied by energetic dances. – Photo by Kong Jung Liung
Stage lights were dimmed to highlight the glowing costumes and illuminated displays from the contingents.
Many participants went the extra mile to bring the 'Parade of Lights' theme to life, dazzling the crowd with graceful dances, shimmering costumes, bright floats, and creative touches infused with Sarawak's rich cultural elements.
Endless music, applause, and cheers added to the festive atmosphere, proving that not even rain could dampen the brilliance of Kuching's Parade of Lights. Kuching Street Parade Parade of Lights
