Sarawak stop of Star Carnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia officially launched
- BT
- Oct 18, 2025
- 3 min read
KUCHING, 18 October 2025: The launching of the Star Carnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Sarawak was held earlier today, bringing together a lively showcase of domestic tourism, culture, food and lifestyle at Kuching’s Plaza Merdeka. Held from October 17 to 19, 2025, the 3-day event is part of a nationwide effort to spur domestic tourism and offer vibrant, family-friendly experiences for the community.
Officiated by the Deputy Director General (Planning) of Tourism Malaysia, Datin Rafidah Idris, the Star Carnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia is organised by Tourism Malaysia and the Star Media Group as a travelling series that highlights what makes each host state unique while offering visitors a taste of Malaysia’s shared culture. Anchored by the tagline “Explore. Experience. Excite.”, the Sarawak edition features an exciting blend of heritage cuisine, traditional performances, travel promotions, artisanal crafts and lifestyle showcases that reflect the nation’s unity and diversity.
“As we continue to build momentum towards Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia stands as a wonderful example of how public-private collaboration can revitalise our domestic tourism landscape. With the recent budget announcement for 2026 by the Prime Minister, the government is encouraging domestic travel by offering up to RM1,000 in income tax relief for entrance fees to tourist attractions and cultural programmes, therefore this carnival provides Malaysians with the perfect opportunity to explore diverse travel offerings and plan their next holiday experience," said Datin Rafidah Idris during her launching speech.
A total of 74 exhibitors are part of Sarawak’s chapter of the carnival, drawing strong participation from local tourism players, entrepreneurs and cultural performers, reflecting the state’s reputation as a destination rich in heritage and natural wonders. Visitors will be treated to exciting and diverse programme throughout the carnival, including exclusive travel packages promoting destinations across Malaysia, offering special deals and promotions for domestic travellers, cultural shows and traditional performances that highlight Sarawak’s vibrant heritage while showcasing acts from other states, heritage food from across the country, local handicrafts created by artisans from various states, featuring weaving, beadwork and woodcraft that highlight Malaysia’s creative industry and special performances by popular Sarawakian performers and digital creators including Meruked.
Speaking on the partnership, Mr Chan Seng Fatt, Group Chief Executive Officer of Star Media Group said, “We are proud to continue our partnership with Tourism Malaysia to celebrate the spirit of domestic travel through Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia. This collaboration allows us to bring the essence of each state to life — from its culture and cuisine to its creativity and community. At Star Media Group, we believe in connecting Malaysians through shared experiences that inspire pride, discovery and unity.”
Cognisant of tourism’s role in improving the state’s socio-economic development, the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Sarawak serves as an important platform for local businesses to connect directly with the public. Exhibitors from across Malaysia will present their offerings, engage with visitors, and drive sales — reinforcing the carnival’s role in stimulating the local economy and elevating consumer experiences within the tourism and creative sectors. Hosting the carnival in Sarawak has also provided visitors with the opportunity to experience the state’s unique attractions while enjoying a cross-section of Malaysia’s broader tourism landscape. With breathtaking natural scenery, diverse ethnic heritage and rich traditions, Sarawak serves as an ideal backdrop for this national showcase.
Also present at today’s launching, Senior General Manager (Client Brand Marketing) of Star Media Group Berhad, Sharon Lee Li Wei and Director of Tourism Malaysia Sarawak, Rubiah Tul Adwiyah Haji Md. Yusof.
The carnival is open to the public with free admission, making it accessible to families, youth and the community at large. Visitors can continue to enjoy the activities until October 19, 2025.
