Miri gears up for Chinese New Year celebration with Gong Xi Bazaar

MIRI: The city is abuzz with excitement as the much-anticipated cultural extravaganza, the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar, gears up for the upcoming Lunar Chinese New Year.

Since its inception in 2000, the vibrant event, jointly organised by the Miri City Council (MCC) and the Miri Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), has transformed the streets into a captivating display of red lanterns and cultural celebrations.

Scheduled to kick off a week before the Lunar New Year, the bazaar, spanning eight days and seven nights, will illuminate High Street and Jalan Kingsway from Jan 30 to Feb 9, symbolising unity and pride among Sarawak’s diverse communities.

Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang shared that preparations for this year’s edition are well underway, with a committee representing various organisations involved in key meetings.

The lively atmosphere promises daily road closures of Jalan Kingsway from 5pm to 12am, starting on Feb 2 through Feb 8.

“This year’s event will provide seating arrangements along Jalan Kingsway for the public to enjoy their meals comfortably. Cleaning staff will maintain cleanliness, and a water supply system will be available for everyone’s convenience.

“We also encourage everyone to be considerate and clean up after meals to ensure a pleasant experience for all.”

In a commitment to inclusivity, 40 per cent of the 330 available stalls are reserved for Bumiputera participants, enriching the bazaar experience with diverse food options.

The grand opening ceremony on Feb 3 will be graced by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. The awards ceremony on Feb 8 will welcome Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; and the closing ceremony will feature Yii as the guest of honour.

The bazaar boasts a dynamic programme with 26 organisations delivering captivating stage performances. Special events include the Chinese New Year Run 2024 2.0, the Cheongsam Queen Competition on Feb 7, and the eagerly anticipated Best Stall Contest 3.0.

Yii, the organising chairman, assured that winners of these competitions will be recognised and rewarded with cash prizes and certificates.

“With these diverse and inclusive activities, the Miri Gong Xi Bazaar 2024 is set to be a beacon of cultural celebration and community spirit, reflecting the rich diversity of Sarawak and its people,” he added.

For detailed updates on events and competitions, locals are encouraged to visit the council’s official Facebook page and website.