Controversy erupts over early CNY makeover of Kuching’s iconic cat statue right after Christmas

KUCHING, Dec 29 — The iconic cat statue in Padungan here has sparked controversy after being dressed up for the upcoming Chinese New Year (CNY) 2025 celebrations shortly after Christmas.

Some netizens even took to social media to voice their displeasure, calling it insensitive given the 12 days of Christmas, while others suggested that Kuching South City Council (MBKS) should have waited until New Year’s Day of Jan 1, 2025, or the conclusion of the Christmas season before changing the decorations.

Addressing this in a Facebook Live chat “ShallWeeTalk?” today, Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng shared that the statue’s new look aims to attract attention and spark conversation, adding that cat’s eyes would be rectified by artistes to make them more “friendly”.

“You see, we don’t want to over-decorate the cat. I think the last one that we put is like a Santa Claus and all that.

“So I think we just concentrate on that or else the whole thing will cover the cat feature,” he said, responding to a question about the statue’s new outfit, which includes a CNY-themed shirt and handbag.

Criticism was also directed at the chosen costume, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the specific themed attire selected for the cat statue.

On the other hand, there were those who defended the move, arguing that the change was necessary to generate excitement for the upcoming CNY celebrations and support local businesses, particularly in Padungan.

Wee revealed that MBKS had initially planned similar decorations for this year’s CNY but delayed them.

He expressed confidence that the theme would remain relevant this year, emphasising the simplicity of traditional CNY colours like red and orange.

“But I’m sure it can be a fashion this year also that we continue on. Because Chinese New Year is very simple.

“As far as red, orange, that’s it. These are the few colours that people always prefer. So I think it will not go wrong,” he said. — The Borneo Post