Thousands of revellers swarmed the Esplanade as early as 6.30pm where a New Year concert was held featuring renowned artistes from Kuala Lumpur as well as their counterparts from Sarawak were performing.

The nation's current popular singing couple, Nurul and Ajai, was among the artistes at the concert organised by the Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP)

Famous for their numbers, "Keliru" and "Aku Cinta Aku Rindu," the couple from Kuala Lumpur performed alongside newcomers Ezlyyn and Phyne Ballerz, as well as well-known comedian Imuda.

Seven Chinese artistes from Peninsular Malaysia and one from Kuching had also kept the guests entertained at the concert that was also attended by the Bintulu Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and scores of local dignitaries.

Tiong also delivered his New Year message at the ocassion with a wish that the people here would continue to maintain inter-racial unity and to give their strong support to the Barisan Nasional government.

Away from the major event, several other political and business organisations were also having their new year celebration at separate locations.