A transformation of the ‘outfit’ for the legendary feline statue in Kuching, Sarawak, ignited a slight uproar after it swapped its Christmas garb for traditional Chinese attire.
Nonetheless, Kuching South mayor Wee Hong Seng brushed off the social media backlash regarding the statue’s ‘costume’ being altered so swiftly following the recent holiday.
The modification was made in preparation for a music video for the Kuching South City Council’s Chinese New Year anthem set to debut on January 2.
Wee stated that it would have been inappropriate for the statue to retain its Christmas costume in the video, as reported by The Borneo Post.
“We assure the public that we are aware of these seasonal shifts. Adorning the cat according to festive occasions is part of our comprehensive efforts to draw more visitors and enhance the city’s charm.
“We appreciate all feedback, particularly constructive criticism, as it aids us in enhancement,” he remarked.
Some online users commented that it was disrespectful for MBKS to alter the cat statue’s outfit so soon after Christmas, suggesting the city council should have postponed the change until at least January 1.
Conversely, others contended that this adjustment was necessary given that Chinese New Year is on January 29.
