STB unveils limited edition CNY Fire Horse angpow

KUCHING (Jan 23): The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has released its 2026 limited-edition Chinese New Year angpow, featuring the seahorse as the central design motif in celebration of the Year of the Fire Horse.

According to STB, the 2026 design symbolises calm strength and balance while reflecting Sarawak’s enduring connection with nature.

This marks the eighth edition of STB’s annual festive angpow tradition.

STB noted that its Chinese New Year angpow series has become a creative platform to showcase Sarawak’s values, places and stories through meaningful design.

The 2026 edition, the board added, reflects Sarawak as a destination that sets its own pace and direction, reinforcing its role as the Gateway to Borneo amid Visit Malaysia Year 2026 celebrations.

“The Fire Horse is traditionally associated with enthusiasm, speed and bold forward movement, setting the tone for a year defined by action, exploration and confidence,” said STB chief executive officer Dr Sharzede Salleh Askor.

She added that pairing the energetic Fire Horse with the seahorse reflects steadiness and harmony, embodying a leadership approach that advances with confidence while remaining grounded.

As the official mascot of Miri, the seahorse highlights the city’s maritime heritage and coastal identity, while underscoring Sarawak’s diverse landscapes ranging from rainforests and rivers to the open sea.

Its inclusion demonstrates STB’s emphasis on place-based storytelling rooted in the state’s natural environment.

“The Year of the Fire Horse is about courage, momentum and taking the lead. By pairing this energy with the seahorse, we reflect Sarawak’s tourism philosophy—leading with confidence while staying balanced, respectful of nature and true to our identity,” Sharzede added.

The limited-edition angpow will be available from Jan 23, while stocks last, at Sarawak Visitors Information Centres in Kuching, Miri, and Sibu.