SIFMA returns with more to look out for this December

KUCHING, 28 November 2025 – Get ready for a spectacular weekend of creativity! The Sarawak International Festival of Music and Art (SIFMA) is making a comeback for its sixth edition.

Mark your calendars for 6 and 7 December, as the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex transforms into a hub of music, dance, and art. Organised by the International Music House (IMH) with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak as well as Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better.

MORE PERFORMERS, WIDER REACH

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said this year’s festival is expanding its reach beyond Kuching to find talent in Bintulu and Miri. In total, 18 performing troupes will grace the stage over the two-day showcase, featuring more masterclasses and concert experiences than ever before.

STAR-STUDDED INTERNATIONAL LINE-UP

Prepare to be amazed by an eclectic mix of global talent, including:

• The Philippines: The B’dadali dance troupe

• ndonesia: Nataraharia and Puspa Karima

• Taiwan: The Taiwan Bamboo Orchestra

• Vietnam: Suc Song Moi Traditional Orchestra and Viet Lotus Groups

Malaysia’s own performing arts scene will also shine with performances by local heavyweights like CStage Dance Academy and Ask Dance Company.

Besides music and dance, SIFMA 2025 will also feature a dedicated fashion segment showcasing designers from Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Peninsular Malaysia.

FUTURE FOR THE ARTS

At a press conference held recently in Kuching, Karim pointed out that SIFMA is crucial for nurturing the local ecosystem. The goal is to build confidence and empower local talent so that when Sarawak’s upcoming performing arts centre is completed, there will be a strong foundation of skilled artisans ready to fill it.

COMMUNITY AND HEALING THROUGH MUSIC

Meanwhile, IMH Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Geraldine Law-Lee also announced two special pre-festival programmes, namely Junior SIFMA and the Night of Classics, happening on 2 and 3 December respectively.

The festival also continues its 'Music Heals Programme,' which supports teens battling depression and the elderly living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) will also be participating.

In the spirit of giving back to the community, entry to SIFMA 2025 is FREE upon registration. So don’t miss this chance to witness a world-class cultural exchange right here in Sarawak, at SIFMA 2025.