MIRI: The 2024 Taste of Borneo Carnival 3.0 is in full swing at the Boulevard Shopping Mall parking area in Miri, running from 30 October to 10 November. This annual event, themed - Unity in Diversity, brings together Sarawak’s rich cultural mosaic, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of its many ethnic communities.

Co-organised by the Sarawak Chinese Association and 19 other ethnic groups, the carnival aims to celebrate Sarawak's multicultural spirit and promote unity through cultural exchange.

Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, hailed the event as a powerful symbol of Sarawak’s peace and unity, especially against the backdrop of global tensions.

“In a world facing increasing regional tensions, Sarawak shines as a beacon of harmony, peace, and mutual respect, where people from all walks of life live and thrive together,” he remarked during his speech at the Taste of Borneo Parade on Wednesday at Boulevard Miri.

He further highlighted that the state's strength lies in its diverse communities, whose positive contributions help build a model of tolerance and unity for others to follow.

The 'Taste of Borneo Carnival' was first launched in 2017 and, after a brief hiatus, made its return in 2023. This year’s event has expanded its scope by inviting tourism boards from Sabah, Brunei, and Kalimantan, providing visitors with a truly authentic Bornean experience.

“The Taste of Borneo is a showcase not just for Sarawak, but for Malaysia and Borneo as a whole, demonstrating the peaceful co-existence we aspire to pass on to future generations,” Datuk Sebastian added.

Throughout the 12-day carnival, attendees can immerse themselves in traditional performances, savour local delicacies at food stalls, and experience cultural village tours.

The event is also striving to achieve two milestones in the Malaysia Book of Records: Most Handicrafts Displayed in a Single Event, with over 400 crafts on show, and the Unity Bridge Greeting Display, featuring the phrase “How are you?” in 71 different languages and dialects.

Among those present at the opening ceremony were Miri City Mayor and Pujut Assemblyman, Adam Yii Siew Sang, Presiding Officer for the Taste of Borneo Carnival 3.0 and President of the Sarawak Chinese Association, Ting Pang Soon, and other distinguished guests.-UKASnews