Xu Qingzhang: From 15 Ethnic Groups to 24 – Borneo Cultural Carnival Moves Towards International Exchange

(Miri, 5th) Dato Xu Qingzhang, Coordinating Ambassador of the Borneo Cultural Carnival 4.0, stated that since its inception in 2017, the carnival has grown from the initial participation of only 15 ethnic groups to 24 today, and has successfully moved onto the stage of international cultural exchange.

He made these remarks last night while attending the opening ceremony of the “Borneo Cultural Carnival 4.0” organized by the Sarawak Chinese Association at the open air parking lot of the Boulevard Shopping Mall.

He said that the carnival was originally a cultural event limited to Sarawak, but gradually expanded to the whole of Borneo, and in 2024 welcomed participants from Sabah and Brunei, bringing the number of participating ethnic groups to 19 – marking a new milestone for regional cultural exchange.

He pointed out that by 2026, this edition of the carnival will reach a new historical high, with 24 ethnic groups participating, and will welcome cultural delegations from China and Indonesia, further expanding it into a cross-regional, international cultural exchange platform.

He stated that this development process embodies Sarawak’s concept of “unity in diversity,” and also proves that culture is an important bridge connecting different ethnic groups, regions, and countries.

He said culture is more than just dance and clothing – it is also history, identity, and heritage. By promoting and sharing culture, future generations will better cherish and protect these precious legacies.

He expressed his gratitude to the 24 ethnic organizations, delegations from China, Indonesia, Brunei, and Sabah, as well as to government agencies, partners, sponsors, and volunteers for their support and contributions, which enabled the successful hosting of the event.

He also thanked Sarawak’s Premier, Dato Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, for his leadership and support. He noted that under his promotion, Sarawak continues to showcase itself as a model of ethnic harmony and multicultural coexistence.