KUCHING: More than 1,500 jazz enthusiasts from across Southeast Asia are expected to gather for the two-day Kuching Jazz Festival 2024 at Kuching Waterfront, starting on October 4.

Chairman of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Dato Husain said the much-anticipated festival, which brings together performers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, truly embodies the spirit of cultural unity among local and international musicians.

"Our mission has always been to unite people through music, encourage cultural exchange, and establish Kuching as a vibrant arts and cultural destination. 

"We expect a strong turnout this year, with visitors from Sarawak, other parts of Malaysia, and even international guests," he said during the Kuching Jazz 2024 Press Conference held at a leading hotel here, on Thursday.

Kuching Jazz 2024 will feature an exclusive performance by Indonesian artist Rizky Febian, marking his first-ever concert in Malaysia. 

The festival will also showcase a diverse lineup of talented local and international artists, including renowned local bands such as Swaiv, Improvisor, Sang Timur, Suhu, Zee Avi, and Aruel Ariel & The Fasola, each bringing their unique sound and energy to the stage.

Additionally, the festival will feature a special hour-long performance by Parade Hujan, a collaboration between Payung Teduh and Pusakata, featuring 11 vibrant songs. 

Adding to the excitement, Sang Timur will debut their unreleased tracks exclusively at the event.

Today is the final day to purchase pre-sale tickets at RM200 for adults and RM100 for children. 

However, tickets will still be available for purchase at the venue on the event day, albeit at a different price.

Also present at the press conference were Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Raden Sigit Witjaksono, Deputy General Manager of SEDC, Rakayah Hamdan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hemisphere Corporation, Mark Ferguson, Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Sarawak, Debbie Jenggut Nyelang, Regional Director of Tourism Malaysia Sarawak, Nurul Ain Mohammed Yunus, General Manager of Sarawak Cultural Village, Jane Lian Labang, Festival Director of Kuching Jazz 2024, Zaini Zainuddin, and other guests. -UKASnews