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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 12: Sarawak is a land of festivals with a flourishing concert scene, where creativity knows no bounds and the spirit of festivity fills the air.
This tropical paradise, known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions, shines as one of Malaysia’s most captivating regions. It stands out as a vibrant hub of culture, diversity, tradition, music, and celebration, steadily evolving into an irresistible magnet for festival aficionados and music enthusiasts worldwide.
The heart of this enchanting land is undoubtedly its array of festivals that punctuate its calendar, each more enthralling than the last, with an exciting future still unwritten. Throughout the year, urban centres like Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu burst into life, hosting a myriad of festivals that pay homage to diverse cultures, unity, and communal spirit.
From the timeless observance of Chinese New Year and Gawai Dayak to the heart-pounding rhythms of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) and Sarawak Regatta, Sarawak’s festivals are a reflection of its soul—a soul that thrives on diversity, cherishes tradition, celebrates unity and harmonises with artistic expression.
Sarawak is a melting pot of more than 40 ethnic groups, each contributing to the kaleidoscope of its society. These festivals serve as a living testament to the harmony and unity among these communities. The prominent ethnic groups—such as the Iban, Malay, Chinese, Bidayuh, Melanau, and Orang Ulu—proudly showcase their distinctive cultural practices and traditions during these festivities.
Chap Goh Mei Festival
Annually, the Chap Goh Mei Festival marks the culmination of the Lunar New Year in grandeur during February. The Hakka town of Bau and Siniawan transform into cultural showcases transcending boundaries, inviting all to indulge in traditional delicacies, lion dances, and cultural exhibitions. The centrepiece, the Ah-Nyong (Chinese goddess Guanyin) and other deities’ traditional street procession wind through eight villages, culminating in firecrackers that painted the Siniawan Heritage Town in red.
Niti Daun 2023
The Niti Daun 2023, a parade commemorating the Gawai Dayak festival in June, became a striking embodiment of Sarawak’s indigenous identity, from attire and music to traditional rituals like ‘Miring’. Visitors, both locals and foreigners, had the privilege of witnessing authentic rituals symbolising the connection between the people, the land, and their spiritual beliefs.
Kuching Food Festival 2023
Between July and August, the annual Kuching Food Festival captivates the city with its sensory spectacle—enticing aromas, vivid colours, and palpable excitement. Traditional fare, arts, crafts, and performances command the spotlight, making it an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. A sea of people is drawn to the festival’s magnetic aura yearly.
Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA)
The AIFFA held biennially since 2013, draws filmmakers, stars, and industry professionals from the Asean region and beyond. It also serves as a melting pot for creative minds to engage in cross-cultural exchanges, foster collaboration, showcase the region’s diverse stories and elevate Asean cinema onto the global stage.
This year, the 6th edition of the festival took on an even more electrifying aura as it welcomed the charismatic South Korean sensation Rain.
With the inclusion of Jackie Chan, Donnie Yan, Michelle Yeoh, Henry Golding, and Nora Aunor in previous editions, the festival not only celebrates the captivating cinema of Southeast Asia but also extends its arms to embrace international talents. As AIFFA continues to evolve, it reinforces the region’s cinematic influence while embracing global connectivity.
Sarawak Regatta
Anchored in history, culture, competition, and community, the annual Sarawak Regatta unites diverse ethnic groups along the Sarawak River near the Kuching Waterfront annually. It has evolved from a communication platform under the White Rajahs into a grand spectacle that continues to draw participants and spectators from all walks of life.
More than just a series of boat races, the Sarawak Regatta is a dazzling showcase of Sarawak’s cultural diversity. As longboats glide gracefully on the Sarawak River, the echoes of the past resonate with the present, reminding Sarawakians of the importance of cherishing our heritage and embracing diversity. This year, the Sarawak Regatta is expected to take place at Kuching Waterfront from Oct 28 to Nov 5.
Rainforest World Music Festival
The renowned Rainforest World Music Festival is at the heart of Sarawak’s concert scene, held annually in Sarawak Cultural Village. Normally scheduled in June, this festival never fails to draw music lovers worldwide. The festival is a celebration of global musical diversity, featuring performances by artists who specialise in traditional and contemporary music and promoting cultural exchange and heritage preservation.
Konsert Rakyat
As 2023 marks a special year for Sarawak as it commemorates the 60th year of Sarawak’s independence, the Konsert Rakyat organised on the night of July 22 after the huge parade in the day saw Padang Merdeka transforming into a sea of joy and harmony, welcoming an astounding crowd of 30,000.
Among the artists featured were Indonesian rock band Ungu, Malaysian rock legend Dato Awie, rapper Joe Flizzow, girl group Dolla, and band Floor 88, alongside Sarawakian artists Chien Gale, Carrie Geres, Firdaus Materang, Bob Yunus, Ramles Walter, Elizebeth Payai, and Masterpiece.
The concert’s success was not merely measured in numbers but in the shared experience that transcended differences and brought people from various backgrounds together.
Borneo Music Festival Live
The music scene in Sarawak has been set ablaze since the inaugural Borneo Music Festival Live (BMFL) in 2022, featuring international superstar DJs Alan Walker from the United Kingdom and DJ Soda from South Korea.
Taking place against the stunning backdrop of Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching, the festival grounds pulsed with electrifying beats, drawing an immense crowd eager to immerse themselves in the rhythm. Both local talents and global sensations graced the stage, offering a diverse range of musical experiences—from high-octane EDM and pulsating techno to soulful melodies and traditional tribal beats. The high-energy night performances had the entire audience dancing under the stars.
But Sarawak’s musical brilliance does not stop there. The region hosts an array of other music festivals, each catering to distinct tastes. From electronic beats, smooth jazz melodies, reggae vibes, or classical harmonies, there is something for everyone. Sarawak has long been celebrated as a prime destination for music tourism, boasting a lineup of renowned festivals such as the Borneo Jazz Festival, Kuching Jazz Festival, Miri Country Music Festival, Sibu International Dance Festival, and Borneo Cultural Festival.
Upcoming music festivals — Borderland Music Festival 2023 and Borneo Sonic 2023
Borderland Music Festival is poised to deliver an unparalleled experience to Sarawak, promising a sensational event that will take place at Miri’s Coco Cabana on Sept 15 and 16 this year. This extraordinary music extravaganza boasts an impressive roster of talent, featuring 14 renowned international DJs and 30 exceptional Asian DJs. Among the notable artists are Cesqeaux, Will Spark, Moksi, Wukong, Alexis Grace, Belle Sisoski, and Ms Puiyi. Spanning across genres such as electronic dance music, house, and techno, attendees can anticipate an exhilarating fusion of sounds that will keep them moving and grooving throughout the event.
Prepare for an unforgettable transformation of Kuching on Oct 6 and 7, as fans and music enthusiasts alike gather in Sarawak for the highly anticipated Borneo Sonic 2023. Attendees can anticipate electrifying performances from a dynamic lineup of not only local and international artists but also some of the most popular K-pop stars, including Taeyang of Big Bang, CL of 2NE1, Suho of EXO, and Hyo of Girls’ Generation.
This multifaceted ensemble of artists will grace the stage, including the legendary American rapper Fatman Scoop, Australian sensation Havana Brown, and Malaysia’s own musical gem Ning Baizura, among other incredible talents. Get ready for a music-filled experience like never before.
A future of festivals and unity
Looking ahead, Sarawak stands as a flourishing haven of festivals and concerts, where the tapestry of cultural diversity intertwines seamlessly with artistic innovation and an unwavering spirit of celebration. This phenomenon stands as a profound testament to the remarkable capacity of humanity to unite and fashion something truly extraordinary from their collective efforts.
Yet, these events are far more than fleeting moments of merriment; they serve as the very threads weaving together the intricate fabric of Sarawak’s society. As the passage of time continues its steady march, Sarawak’s commitment to honouring its heritage, fostering unity, and nurturing a profound sense of belonging among its people who lovingly call this place home, remains resolute.
Sarawak will make sure its people and visitors are enveloped in a symphony of cultures, a chorus of melodies, and an atmosphere of perpetual joy. Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah confidently avows that the overwhelming response from crowds surpassing all expectations has positioned Sarawak firmly on the global stage for hosting international concerts and events.
These events are just several shining examples of how Sarawak showcases its vibrant culture to the world. As Sarawak moves forward, these events will undoubtedly remain the pillars upon which its future is built, ensuring that the radiant spirit of Sarawak continues to illuminate the path for generations to come. — DayakDaily
