By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Nov 11: Indonesian artistes who will be performing at the Manggung Di Muara 2026 concert will be among the passengers on AirBorneo’s inaugural Jakarta–Kuching direct flight this Friday (Nov 13), says Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Speaking at a press conference on Manggung Di Muara 2026 at Baitulmakmur here today, he said that the inaugural Jakarta–Kuching flight was supposed to commence at the end of last month but had to be postponed to Nov 13.
“I believe AirBorneo will also organise a special reception to mark its inaugural flight, possibly including a water cannon salute, which would make the occasion even more significant. There will be a welcoming ceremony at the airport,” he said.
He also added that AirBorneo will transport all participating artistes and their entourages to Kuching.
Meanwhile, he said programmes such as Manggung Di Muara 2026 attract fans from Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, and other parts of Sarawak, including Sibu, Miri, and Bintulu, who travel specifically to attend the concerts.
“What gives me a certain sense of pride is that I understand from the organisers that ticket sales have come close to full capacity, with around 3,000 tickets sold.
“The music featured at the concert is also intended to be relaxing and enjoyable, rather than too heavy or intense. The organisers are targeting around 3,000 visitors or concertgoers on the night, and ticket sales have already come close to that figure.
“This response serves as an indication of the potential for music events of this nature and demonstrates that such concerts can be organised again in the coming years or even in the months ahead, God willing, whether in Kuching or elsewhere,” he said.
Manggung Di Muara 2026, organised by Wazai Creative Solution, will take place this Saturday (Nov 14) at the Kuching Waterfront Esplanade, behind the Grand Margherita Hotel.
The event will offer an open-air concert experience, bringing together regional artistes and local Sarawak talents for a night celebrating music and entertainment.
The line-up comprises Nadhif Basalamah and Ari Lesmana from Indonesia, Aziz Harun from Brunei, and Malaysia’s own Aisha Retno, along with local acts Naki, Adruce Azman, and Shasha Ningkan.
“The participation of all these artistes will provide opportunities for Sarawak’s local performers to showcase their creativity and talents to a wider audience.
“They will also have the opportunity to share the stage with artistes from neighbouring countries and build connections within the music industry,” he said.
In addition to performances, there will also be various sales activities, particularly food stalls operated by participating vendors.
“So, visitors need not worry about food options while enjoying the event. I understand that more than 20 kiosks will be operating throughout the night, offering a variety of food for sale,” said Abdul Karim. — DayakDaily
