BINTULU, Malaysia, July 23: The skies above Lasar Kenyalang at Bintulu Old Airport came alive with spectacular colours and breathtaking aerial displays as the 19th Borneo International Kite Festival (BIKF) officially commenced, welcoming more than 150 kite flyers from 19 countries for one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated kite festivals.
The five-day international festival was officially inaugurated by Tanjong Batu Assemblyman Johnny Pang, who described the event as much more than a kite-flying competition. He emphasized that the festival represents a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, international friendship, and community spirit while reinforcing Bintulu’s reputation as a premier global tourism destination.
“This festival is a celebration that brings together culture, friendship, and community spirit while strengthening Bintulu’s standing on the international stage,” Pang said during the opening ceremony.
Highlighting the festival’s growing international significance, Pang noted that attracting participants from 19 countries is a remarkable achievement and reflects Bintulu’s readiness to welcome the world.
“This is not a small achievement. It is a statement that Bintulu is open to the world, ready for the world, and belongs on the world stage,” he added.
Pang expressed his appreciation to the Bintulu Resident’s Office, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), festival co-chairmen, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, volunteers, and the local community for their collective efforts in making the event a success. He also acknowledged the continued support of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, whose vision has helped elevate Bintulu through internationally recognized cultural events.
Despite challenges posed by global economic uncertainty, rising airfares, and travel disruptions, Pang praised the organizers for successfully hosting the event, demonstrating resilience and determination.
“We did not step back. We stepped up. In Bintulu, we do not wait for opportunities—we create them,” he remarked.
Welcoming both new and returning participants, Pang described the international kite flyers as cultural ambassadors whose creativity and friendship help strengthen global relationships while enriching the festival experience for visitors.
Beyond its spectacular kite displays, the Borneo International Kite Festival continues to serve as an important tourism and economic driver. More than 160 local entrepreneurs are participating in the festival’s trade exhibition, showcasing Sarawak’s local delicacies, handicrafts, souvenirs, and innovative products to thousands of visitors.
The combination of international kite performances, tourism activities, cultural exchanges, and business participation demonstrates Bintulu’s commitment to sustainable tourism development and economic growth through culture and community engagement.
The 19th Borneo International Kite Festival runs through July 26, featuring giant inflatable kites, precision stunt kite demonstrations, mesmerizing night-flying performances, cultural exchange programmes, interactive workshops, and family-friendly activities that attract visitors from across Sarawak and around the world.
The opening ceremony was also attended by BDA General Manager Datu Muhamad Yakup Kari, Jepak Assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, State Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Permanent Secretary Morshidi Fredrick, and BDA Deputy General Manager Abdul Rahim Abdullah.
The annual festival continues to reinforce Bintulu’s position as one of Asia’s leading destinations for international kite festivals, showcasing how cultural events can successfully promote tourism, foster international goodwill, and stimulate local economic development.