Over 20,000 Attend Tiong’s 2026 CNY Open House in Sibu

19 February 2026

SIBU, Sarawak: More than 20,000 people thronged Pulau Li Hua here today for the 2026 Chinese New Year (CNY) Open House hosted by Tourism , Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Tiong King Sing.

Held on the third day of the Lunar New Year, the celebration saw visitors from all walks of life gathered to usher in the festive season together.

Tiong described the overwhelming turnout as a testament to the strong community spirit in Sibu and across Sarawak. He said the event extended the warmth of family reunions to the wider community, creating a vibrant and joyous atmosphere. He also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the public for their enthusiastic participation and support.

Guests were treated to a wide array of local delicacies, including Ding Bian Hu, Kampua Mee, Laksa and Beef Noodles. The celebration featured a lively line-up of performances and cultural activities such as singing and dancing performances, a Chinese orchestra showcase, Yee Sang tossing, and an exciting high-pole lion dance.

Highlighting Sarawak’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, Tiong noted that Sibu possesses its own distinct and profound cultural identity. With systematic and strategic promotion, he said, these cultural assets could become major attractions for both domestic and international tourists.

Following the festivities, he said he would continue engaging with relevant agencies in Sarawak and has urged to be more proactive in strengthening cooperation with state governments. Such collaboration, he added, is vital to positioning Malaysia’s local festivals and unique attractions as key tourism highlights.

Tiong also emphasised the positive economic impact of large-scale celebrations, noting that food and beverage operators, hawkers and local businesses benefited significantly from the influx of visitors. Festivals, he said, not only foster unity and cultural appreciation but also stimulate consumption and energise the local economic cycle, turning cultural activities into tangible income for the people.

He thanked the public for their continued trust and support, pledging to keep working hard in service of the community.