KUCHING: Walking down Kenyalang Park this Chinese New Year not only brings a sense of nostalgia, but truly encapsulates what Sarawak really means.
How?
As the Kenyalang Park Chinese New Year market opens until Chinese New Year Eve (Jan 28), it brings together 264 vibrant vendors from all walks of life, races, and religions to celebrate the season with a unity that’s uniquely Sarawakian.
Picture this: Malay stalls selling delectable ‘kek lapis’, Dayak vendors offering up traditional ‘kuih-kuih’, and Chinese calligraphy artists crafting masterpieces—all laughing, chatting, and working side by side.
It’s more than just a market, but a living, breathing tapestry of Sarawak’s harmony.
Strolling through the alleyways, you’ll find more than just goodies as every corner is bursting with smiles, warmth, and a sense of community.
Take this moment: an uncle, around his 60s, paused his hunt for fireworks to chat with us.
With a big grin, he shared his pro-tip about a cheaper vendor down the lane.
“Try that stall, it’s better priced,” he said with words filled with the kind of neighbourly kindness that makes your day.
As fate would have it, we bumped into him again later with his parting words were simple but heartfelt.
“All the best to you, and Happy Chinese New Year!” he said.
As families strolled hand in hand, hunting for last-minute goodies, the air was filled with the tantalising aroma of freshly baked cookies and the buzz of friendly chatter.
At one stall, an elderly man proudly showed off his state-of-the-art Chinese calligraphy.
“You should’ve came earlier! I was here since day one,” he said.
When we asked for a photo, he struck a pose with a cheerful, “Thumbs up!”
Vendors called out to customers, while others enjoyed conversations with their neighbours.
It’s a soulful journey—every interaction, every smile, and every bite of a handmade treat feels like a warm embrace from Sarawak itself.
Nearby, an aunty selling cookies playfully fussed over her photoshoot.
“Do I look okay? Make sure I look good!” she teased.
After a few snapshots, she sent us off with a smile and a heartfelt “Happy Chinese New Year!”
If anyone is looking to stock up on Chinese New Year essentials and soak in the true spirit of Sarawak, Kenyalang Park is the place to be.
Because here, amidst the cookies, calligraphy, and chatter, you’ll find what Sarawak really means: home.
