Vibrant show: Dancers performing at the Hope of Peace in Love Christmas carnival in Kota Kinabalu. — Photo courtesy of the Information Department
KOTA KINABALU: The Hope of Peace in Love Christmas carnival held here was a hit among vendors and visitors.
They praised the food, activities and turnout at the four-day festive event, which ended on Friday.
Visitors also enjoyed a one-hour free food slot.
Food trader Ridah Gundiok expressed her appreciation for being given the opportunity to set up a stall at the event.
“So many people came, including families with children and youngsters from various racial and religious backgrounds.
“This is a platform for unity, for all of us to come together as one big family and, personally, I feel that this is one of the best carnivals I have been part of,” she said in an interview.
Ridah said she hoped there would be a larger budget set for vendors on the free-food slot next year.
Tis’ the season: A close-up of the nativity scene at the festive carnival.
She noted that during this year’s event, the quota ran out very quickly despite people still queuing for their free meal.
The free-food slot was held from 7pm to 8pm with a certain quota given to the 100 vendors.
Traditional food seller Aldina Julian said this year’s celebration was even more festive and crowded than previous years, perhaps due to the free food.
“Vendors were able to earn money while patrons enjoyed the food, drinks and activities,” she said.
Burger seller Rozelin Liew called the carnival “the best one yet”.
“We were happy with the business outcome while visitors were happy to enjoy the festive environment,” she said.
Madrigal Budiman, operator of Bakso Ketagih and Teh Tarik Ais, hoped similar concepts could be applied to other celebrations.
Alexzender Teo, who sells street pizza, said the gathering brought together people of all races and religions in one celebration, further strengthening peace and harmony in Sabah.
