Tattoo festival showcases art as universal language that unites cultures, says MBKS Mayor

Wee (seated, sixth left) in a photo with organiser and attendees after officiating the Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival at MBKS community hall on Oct 24, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 24: The Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival has demonstrated how art serves as a universal language that breaks down barriers and unites people from diverse walks of life.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said Kuching was proud to serve as a convergence point for international cultural exchange, bringing together master tattooists, cultural practitioners and visitors from around the world.

He said the festival, themed “Stories in Ink, Cultures in Unity”, celebrates the power of art to foster inclusivity, strengthen cultural understanding and bring communities closer together.

The three-day event, organised by Persatuan Kelingai, Kreatif dan Seni Persembahan Kuching (KREAT), runs from Oct 23 to 25.

Wee (centre) tattooing his name on a synthetic skin to mark the opening of Sarawak International Tattoo and Cultural Festival at MBKS community hall on Oct 24, 2026.

Wee congratulated KREAT for its dedication in bringing the festival to life, describing the event as an opportunity to celebrate the richness of cultural heritage while embracing artistic innovation.

He said tattooing was more than a form of modern aesthetic expression, particularly in Sarawak, where it represents an ancient and living visual history.

“Every line, every ‘Bunga Terung’, and every indigenous motif tells a story of courage, identity, and deep respect for the land we call home,” he said when speaking at the opening of the festival at MBKS Community Hall today.

Wee said the festival’s combination of traditional hand-tapping techniques and contemporary ink arts honoured the past while opening doors to global artistic innovation.

He added that the event reflected Kuching’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no one was left behind, with cultural festivals providing a platform for people from different backgrounds to connect through shared appreciation of art.

Beyond the tattoo showcases, Wee encouraged visitors to explore the festival’s wider offerings, including cultural performances, local artisan craft exhibitions and vendor markets featuring Sarawakian cuisine.

He said the festival also provided meaningful support for local entrepreneurs and the creative industry, while helping strengthen Sarawak’s position on the international tourism map.

“Your presence here directly supports our local entrepreneurs and creative ecosystems,” he said.

Wee also urged international guests to take home a lasting impression of Sarawak’s hospitality, while encouraging local participants to remain proud of their cultural heritage. — DayakDaily