Revellers flock in to watch the live performance from various bands and cultural troupes. – Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: The three-day Countdown Fiesta 2020 kicked-off at Kuching Waterfront on Sunday with a myriad of musical and dance performances for revellers.
It began with live performances by Revolution Band and Intan Buskers who delivered their well-known songs, followed by a synchronised water and light show set to music from the Darul Hana Musical Fountain.
The light rain did not dampen locals and tourists alike from being dazzled by the musical fountain’s colourful show.
The event continued with a concert featuring performances by Majlis Seni Sarawak Junior Orchestra and also well-choreographed traditional dances from various cultural troupes.
(From left) Finkbeiner, Mercer and Moya at the Countdown Fiesta 2020.
Local artistes Aden Kundang, Raquel Then and Nurfarahanim Muhammad also took part in the concert.
Pascal Finkbeiner, a visitor from Germany, told reporters that he enjoyed watching the performances of the different cultures.
“I like it. It’s really great to see different cultures working together and (their) performances are amazing. It’s really a great event here (tonight).
“This is my second time here in Sarawak. The reason why I come here for the second time is because I really enjoy the food and the culture here. (Besides), my partner’s family is also from here,” he added.
Finkbeiner was joined by his partner Edwina Mercer from England and their colleague Berta Moya from Spain.
Kuching-born Mercer commented that she enjoyed the various traditional dance performances, especially as local youths were involved.
“I really like (to see) young people are learning the traditions, and we came here just in time to see them perform. They are amazing.
“Kuching Waterfront has been a lively area, and I like the changes made to the waterfront as it has been developed so much since my last visit here – and I think the fountain show was amazing,” she said.
Moya, meanwhile, said she enjoyed the mix of modern and traditional performances which she felt was a great way of keeping traditions alive while at the same time making it fun for everyone.