KUCHING: New angpow packets from the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) will feature the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta to usher in the Year of the Dragon.

       STB chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor said this was the seventh edition of angpow packets featuring elements unique to Sarawak.

       "We look forward to creating new and truly Sarawakian angpow designs every year to make the packets collectable while promoting Sarawak's priceless biodiversity and heritage to the world," she said in a media release on Tuesday (Jan 16).

       Sharzede added that the dragon, being a symbol of strength, power and good fortune in Chinese mythology, resonated with the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta as it reflected the energy and camaraderie of the rowers.

       The limited 2024 angpow packets are available for collection at STB's visitor information centres in Kuching, Sibu and Miri from Tuesday onwards.

       Usually held at the end of October, the dragon boat regatta is an internationally recognised event attracting local and foreign rowing teams to compete in various categories on the Sarawak River here.

       A total of 60 teams from 20 countries took part in the regatta last October.

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       Last year's event also welcomed two teams of rowers which included members with physical disabilities.