KOTA KINABALU: Come Dec 31, the city will be buzzing with an exciting New Year’s Day countdown, with performances by international artistes and bands, said the State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister.
Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said the Kota Kinabalu Countdown 2025 (KKCD25) event is inspired by renowned countdown events such as Taipei 101’s and Sydney’s New Year’s Eve.
He said the highlights here will include a fireworks display using 1,000 synchronised drones and performances by 17 artistes and bands from South Korea, China and Indonesia joining local acts.
“The event will amplify Sabah’s visibility worldwide.
“It is a key aspiration of the state government and a milestone event for Sabah, blending tradition, creativity and global appeal.
“This is a unified effort by the state government in collaboration with the private sector and local talents to deliver a world-class celebration,” he added.
Phoong said the aim is to boost Sabah’s economy and cause a ripple effect on tourism across the state.
He said foreign and domestic tourists are being targeted to join and usher in 2025, with the countdown event planned at Dataran Bandaraya along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens here on the last day of the year.
He added that besides Sabah having a chance to showcase itself as a premier tourism destination, the event will also be able to foster unity among Malaysians celebrating diversity regardless of race, religion or culture.
“Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor will attend the celebrations,” he said, adding that KKCD25 will be open to the public.
Flame Wave Music Festival, a ticketed event, will be held in collaboration with a private company to mark the countdown, Phoong said.
“Sabah warmly welcomes Malaysians and international visitors to join us for a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration,” he said.
For details, visit the event website at www.kkcd.asia.
