Iconic Cat Statue in Kuching Faces Controversy After Early CNY Makeover So Soon After Christmas

With Christmas now over, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

However, the iconic cat statue in Padungan, Kuching, sparked controversy after it was spotted being dressed up for the upcoming Chinese New Year (CNY) 2025 celebrations so shortly after Christmas.

Pictures of the statue went viral on social media as netizens voiced their displeasure and called it insensitive, seeing as the Christmas period isn’t technically over yet.

Some suggested that Kuching South City Council (MBKS) should have waited until New Year’s Day or the conclusion of the Christmas season before changing the decorations.

In response, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said that the statue’s new look aims to attract attention and spark conversation, adding that the cat’s eyes would be rectified by artists 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.

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

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

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

“As far as red, orange, that’s it. These are the few colors that people always prefer. So I think it will not go wrong,” he added.

What do you think of the statue’s look? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: Nga Kor Ming Tells PAS to “Repent” for Christmas Event Criticism, Invites Them to KPKT’s 2025 Hari Raya Celebration