KICF fertilizer is responsible for animal welfare

KUCHING, Oct. 5: Kuching International Cat Festival (KICF) 2026 not only brings together cat lovers but also raises awareness that love for animals must be accompanied by continuous responsibility and care.

The daughter of Sarawak Premier, Dayang Norjihan Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the values were also cultivated in her through the spiritual education of her mother, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tun Tuanku Bujang who is a cat lover.

According to him, love for animals should not only be expressed when participating in events such as KICF, but translated through everyday actions.

"My mistress taught that every living creature should be treated well, respected and cared for with compassion.

"That's why this festival is so close to my heart. It's not just a place for us to admire different types of cats or share the joy of being animal lovers, it reminds us that love comes with responsibility.

"Our beloved cats need food, shelter, treatment when they are sick and constant care. Love for animals must be manifested through action, not only when we gather at events like today, but also in our daily lives", he said.

He said this while addressing the KICF 2026 Closing Meeting in Kuching, on Sunday.

Dayang Norjihan explains that exposure to animal care should also be passed on to the younger generation so that values of compassion, compassion and responsibility can be nurtured from the beginning.

He said that KICF was also a platform to introduce Kuching and Sarawak to visitors from within and outside the country, not only as a city synonymous with cats, but also through the people's hospitality, cultural diversity and compassion in the community.

In addition, the festival is expected to continue to be a space that unites communities from diverse backgrounds through shared interest in animal welfare.

"May that spirit continue to be brought home, shared with families and cultivated in our communities. In this way, Kuching is known not only for his unique name, but because of the citizens who value life and always have room in their hearts to do good to other creatures", he said.

KICF 2026 hosted by North Kuching City Council (DBKU) took place in Kuching Belt on 3 and 4 October with the World Cat Federation (WCF) International Cat Show and My Cat Expo as well as 41 exhibition and sales outlets.

The festival also received about 200 entries from Malaysia including Sabah, in addition to Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, the Philippines, China and Vietnam.