3 days ago
International Friendship Cities Night opens with cultural spectacle at MBKS Theatre
Zhenjiang's Experimental School's students performing 'The Unity of the Land'. – Photo by Tay Ya Hui
KUCHING (July 26): More than 600 people attended the vibrant opening night of the International Friendship Cities Night at the MBKS Theatre yesterday, marking the beginning of a three-day cultural showcase held in conjunction with the Kuching Festival Food Fair 2025.
Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng welcomed visiting delegates from sister cities, including Quanzhou, Zhenjiang, Tai'an, Zhengzhou and Asuke, who brought with them a rich mix of traditional performances.
'Your presence adds not only glamour and excitement to our festival, but also warmth and meaning.
'The friendships we share go beyond ceremony or protocol.
'They represent our shared belief in the power of people-to-people connection,' said Wee during his welcoming speech.
The Asuke team delivered a thunderous Taiko drum performance. – Photo by Tay Ya Hui
Also present at the International Friendship Cities Night were Kuching City South Deputy Mayor Dato' Dr Zaiedi Suhaili, Chinese Consul-General in Kuching Xing Weiping, and Padawan Municipal Council Chairman Tan Kai.
The night came alive with performances from across Asia.
Students from Tai'an's Taishan University delivered a graceful solo of Ode to the Coral, followed by a mesmerising gu zheng piece titled 'Lofty Mountains and Flowing Streams'.
Their programme also featured Tai Chi fused with music in 'Silver Clouds Pursuing the Moon', and high-energy displays like the Single Knife Dance and Competitive Fitness Qigong.
Zhenjiang's Experimental School captivated with five elegant dance pieces, including 'Beijing Melodies', 'The Unity of Land', and 'Lotus Drum Melody', each brimming with classical charm and modern flair.
The energetic Shaolin Kung Fu performances elicted cheers from the crowd. – Photo by Tay Ya Hui
Quanzhou brought traditional Chinese puppetry to life with a whimsical marionette performance, while Zhengzhou's delegation impressed with a powerful Shaolin Kung Fu display, blending martial prowess with dramatic artistry.
From Japan, the Asuke team delivered a thunderous Taiko drum performance that echoed with rhythm and tradition, leaving the crowd in awe.
The International Friendship Cities Night continues until Sunday (July 20) at 8pm nightly, offering the public a rare chance to experience global cultural performances free of charge.
