Kuching’s White Cat statue becomes talk of the town with its striking Chinese New Year look

Kuching's White Cat statue now flaunts striking Chinese New Year attire. Photo by Ashley Sim.

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, Jan 2: As the vibrant energy of Chinese New Year sweeps across Kuching, residents and visitors alike are treated to a delightful surprise at the Padungan Roundabout here, where the iconic Kuching White Cat statue has undergone its annual transformation in anticipation of the coming festival.

The popular landmark, previously adorned in festive Christmas attire, now boasts a striking Chinese New Year makeover, captivating the hearts of onlookers with its elegant display.

The Kuching White Cat statue now wears a striking red samfu paired with an elegant Chinese hat – an embodiment of the Chinese New Year spirit.

Surrounded by a symphony of Chinese New Year decorations that represent good fortune and prosperity, the statue has become a visual feast for passersby and onlookers.

A close-up view of the Kuching’s White Cat statue in Chinese New Year attire. Photo by Ashley Sim.

The Chinese New Year decorations that surround the statue symbolise good fortune and prosperity. Photo by Ashley Sim.

The Kuching White Cat’s transformation has become a focal point of admiration and discussion among locals driving through Jalan Padungan, with many expressing their delight at the thoughtfully crafted Chinese New Year design.

Users on social media are also expressing their awe at the meticulous design and praising the effort put in by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) to bring the spirit of Chinese New Year to life through the statue.

“As a longtime resident of Kuching, I’ve always felt a sense of pride whenever I see the Kuching White Cat. This year’s Chinese New Year makeover is simply stunning,” remarked Susan Lim, 50, when interviewed by DayakDaily today.

According to Ah Pau, a 32-year-old businessman, the feline statue’s costume is possibly the finest one to-date.

“May we all be ‘heng heng’ (fortunate) this year,” he added.

Furthermore, Mr Lau, a 31-year-old teacher, said, “The city’s inclusive celebration is truly commendable, beautifully reflected in the festive atmosphere where even a cat in a samfu for the Chinese New Year becomes a delightful symbol of unity and diversity.”

Meanwhile, another local resident named Ong, a 38-year-old marketing manager, pointed out the absence of a dragon theme. However, Ong did highlight that the design this year is more innovative than previous years, particularly due to the creative use of tyres.

“I think it looks more corporate than usual. It looked so office-style because of the flowers. And this year’s design does not feature a dragon year theme. Overall, it does look quite beautiful. However, perhaps it would be more appealing during the night,” commented Tasneem, a 25-year-old digital marketer.

Moreover, Nurul, a 29-year-old local, added, “It appears too common during the day; perhaps it would be more appealing at night. However, the famous for seasonal cultural celebration cat statue is missing one of the most important elements of Chinese New Year, which is the dragon – to a non-Chinese person; this is significant because I’d like to know which animal the Chinese zodiac is featuring this year.”

As Kuching prepares to usher in the Year of the Dragon, the Kuching White Cat statue in Padungan stands as a beacon of festive joy, bridging communities and showcasing the city’s commitment to embracing diverse cultural celebrations. — DayakDaily