1,258 participants from six countries to converge in Kuching for Sarawak Int’l Choral Festival and Symposium 2026 from June 18-21

Abdul Karim (sixth left) with other distinguished guests at the press conference of SICSym 2026 at Baitul Makmur II in Petra Jaya on June 10, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, June 10: Sarawak is set to host 1,258 participants from six countries and six Malaysian states for the third edition of the Sarawak International Choral Festival and Symposium 2026 (SICSym 2026), to be held from June 18 to 21, further strengthening the State’s position as a growing hub for choral excellence and cultural exchange.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the festival has grown rapidly since its inception and is now gaining strong international recognition.

“This event has been held the last two years but it has grown rapidly. It seems to be getting more known and very popular. Even though it is the third year, it has received international recognition and participation,” he said at a press conference here today.

He said the festival is not only a competition but also a platform for unity and cultural understanding from diverse age groups.

“Well music possesses a unique power to connect people. Through singing we transcend differences in languages, in culture as well as in geography. Choral music nurtures discipline, teamwork and artistic expression while strengthening communities and contributing meaningfully to social cohesion and nation-building,” he said.

He also said choirs will perform at various venues around Kuching, including shopping malls, allowing the public to enjoy performances outside competition halls, adding that schedules will be made available online.

Abdul Karim said the festival’s growing participation reflects Sarawak’s rising reputation in the performing arts.

He also expressed hope that future editions will benefit from improved facilities, including the upcoming Performing Arts Centre expected to be completed by end of next year.

Among the highlights of the festival is the Grand Prix competition, where category winners will compete for the festival’s highest honour, with the winner to receive a trophy and USD2,500 in prize money.

The festival will conclude with the closing and award ceremony, to be officiated by the Sarawak Governor (TYT), Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar with his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, whose presence, Abdul Karim said, will add distinction to the event.

He also extended appreciation to the Kuching Choral Society, organisers, sponsors, partners and volunteers for making the event possible.

Abdul Karim said these efforts continue to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a vibrant destination for cultural events, creative industry and international engagement. — DayakDaily