By Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 18: The highly anticipated What About Kuching (WAK) Festival 2025 has officially launched its Call for Proposal (CFP), inviting passionate creatives, artists, and cultural practitioners from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei, Kalimantan, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, and beyond to submit their event concepts and be part of this community-driven, multi-genre festival.
Marking its 7th edition, WAK 2025 will once again expand beyond Kuching, taking place across three locations to reach a wider audience: WAK Sibu from June 6 to 8, followed by WAK Miri from June 13 to15 and finally WAK Kuching from Oct 1 to 31.
This year’s festival carries the theme “Roots”, emphasising deeper engagement with grassroots communities across various artistic disciplines. WAK 2025 will place greater focus on Open Mic Platforms, Visual Arts, Handicrafts, Cultural Heritage, and lifestyle-driven pursuits, ensuring an inclusive celebration of Sarawak’s creative spirit.
Speaking at a press conference at his office in Baitulmakmur Building, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah emphasised that Sarawak—home to over 30 diverse ethnic groups—is the perfect stage to showcase cultural diversity.
“I am confident that the WAK organisers will facilitate participation in this fast-growing and exciting open-access festival in Borneo. Arts, culture, and lifestyle enthusiasts, mark these dates and plan your travels to Sarawak for an unforgettable community-driven celebration,” he said.
He also urged creatives from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei, Kalimantan, Singapore, Peninsular Malaysia, and the region to join in celebrating arts, culture, and lifestyles through WAK 2025.
WAK Festival director Donald Tan described WAK 2025 as a tribute to Sarawak and Borneo’s roots—its heritage, traditions, and creative expressions, whether through music, crafts, storytelling, or food.
“We celebrate the deep cultural tapestry that makes Sarawak and Borneo truly unique. This year, we encourage creatives to dig deep into their artistic and cultural foundations, exploring how traditions can evolve in contemporary expressions.
“Our mission has always been to champion community-driven creativity. WAK 2025 will strengthen grassroots participation, providing more platforms for emerging artists, local artisans, and cultural advocates to showcase their craft. From open mic sessions to heritage crafts, we aim to inspire, support, and nurture homegrown talent while inviting collaborations from across the region,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting, Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Dato Peter Minos and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai were among those present at the press conference.
Interested individuals, groups, and organisations are encouraged to submit their proposals through the official WAK Festival website at www.aboutkuching.com.
The submission deadlines are May 8 for WAK Sibu and WAK Miri and June 27 for WAK Kuching, with all proposals will be reviewed by the WAK Festival team.
The festival promises a rich lineup of events spanning music, food, arts, crafts, theatre, sports, and culture, ensuring there is something for everyone, no matter their interests. As the festival unfolds across Kuching, Miri, and Sibu, the streets will come alive with immersive experiences, making each visit truly memorable.
Follow WAK Festival on social media for the latest news and announcements: Instagram & Facebook: @aboutkuching @wakxsibu @wakxmiri and website: www.aboutkuching.com. — DayakDaily
