Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival 2026 Wraps Up on a High Note
KUCHING, 26 October 2026 – Three days of artistry, cultural exchange and creative expression came to a close as the Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival 2026 wrapped up at the MBKS Community Hall, bringing together tattoo artists, craft participants and cultural practitioners from Sarawak and around the world.
Held from 23 to 25 October under the theme “Stories in Ink, Cultures in Unity”, the festival welcomed 50 tattoo artists and 28 craft participants, alongside representatives from government and private agencies and cultural associations. International artists from Italy, Sweden, Thailand, Guam, Wales and Indonesia added a global dimension to the gathering, making it a vibrant meeting point for diverse tattoo traditions and artistic perspectives.
Organised by Persatuan Kelingai, Kreatif dan Seni Persembahan Kuching (KREAT), the festival celebrated more than tattoo artistry. It created opportunities for artists to exchange ideas, share their experiences and connect through a shared appreciation of art, identity and heritage.
The festival was officially opened by Yang Berbahagia Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South (MBKS), who highlighted the importance of preserving traditional tattooing as a living expression of Sarawak's cultural history. Indigenous motifs, including the Bunga Terung, carry stories of identity, courage and connection to the land, underscoring the significance of keeping these traditions alive for future generations.
Throughout the festival, visitors had the opportunity to experience the richness of tattoo culture while exploring local craft exhibitions, cultural performances and food offerings. The combination of traditional hand-tapping techniques and contemporary tattoo artistry showcased the diversity of the art form, while the participation of international artists encouraged cultural dialogue and creative collaboration.
Beyond the artistic showcases, the event also provided a platform to support local artisans and entrepreneurs, strengthening Kuching's creative community and highlighting Sarawak's cultural heritage to a wider international audience.
The successful gathering reflected the collective efforts of KREAT, participating artists, craft exhibitors, sponsors, strategic partners, government agencies, volunteers and supporters who contributed to bringing the festival to life.
As the curtains close on this year's edition, the Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival leaves behind more than striking artwork and memorable performances. It reinforces the power of art to connect communities, preserve cultural identity and build friendships across borders.
With “Stories in Ink, Cultures in Unity” as its guiding theme, the festival has once again demonstrated that every design carries a story and every cultural exchange creates an opportunity for greater understanding. The successful conclusion of the 2026 edition marks another meaningful milestone in celebrating Sarawak's living heritage and its place on the international cultural stage.
