KUCHING: The White Cat statue at Jalan Padungan here has been lit up for Hari Raya Aidilfitri in a longstanding tradition reflecting Sarawak's unity.
The festive lights, including oil lamps, are complemented by the cat's green songket costume.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the cat celebrates every festival with different costumes.
"This is truly in line with what Sarawak is about in terms of harmony, respect and nation-building.
"The spirit of unity is more important now that the world is facing so many conflicts," he told reporters after the lighting-up ceremony on Tuesday (March 17) night.
In a divided world, he added, Sarawakians chose to come together, respect one another and celebrate each other's festivals.
Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the practice of dressing up the cat for festive occasions dated back over 20 years.
"We change the costume every year to be different. Before Chinese New Year, we already planned what design we should use for Raya," he said, adding that this year's design featured a green theme.
Kuching South deputy mayor Datuk Zaiedi Suhaili said festive occasions showcased Sarawak's multicultural harmony as people celebrated together.
"We just completed the Chinese New Year celebration. This is part of our culture, how our various communities and religions live peacefully.
"These celebrations are a good way for us to promote unity and strengthen our harmony," he said.
