BSMF draws over 10,000 fans with on opening night

KUCHING: Borneo Sonic Music Festival (BSMF) roared back for its second year, electrifying over 10,000 fans who cheered for more during the festival’s explosive opening night (Oct 11).

The budding event made waves by featuring international headliners such as first-generation K-pop icon Rain, Indonesian songstress Bunga Citra Lestari, and Thailand’s rising pop group 4EVE.

Despite an hour’s delay caused by drizzling rain, concertgoers remained undeterred and were waiting eagerly to witness their favourite stars take the stage at Stadium Sarawak, Petra Jaya here.

Although the initial turnout at the scheduled start time of 7pm was slow, the stadium was packed by 9pm.

BSMF kicked off with a performance by local artist Thomas Kok, who warmed up the crowd with a cover of ‘Silence’ by Jay Chou.

His performance set the stage for Kuching-born singer Priscilla Abby, followed by South Korean DJ UJOO, who lit up the night with her hard-hitting techno and drum and bass mixes.

Indonesian star Bunga Citra Lestari then took the stage, and to the crowd’s delight, she brought out Malaysian international icon Yuna for a surprise duet of ‘Watak Utama’.

4EVE. (Pics courtesy of BSMF)

4EVE. (Pics courtesy of BSMF)

The excitement continued with South Korean singers Junny, Youngjae, and Yoon Seo Bin, who dazzled the audience with their powerful vocals and electric dance moves.

Adding to the night’s energy was a performance by a ‘controversial’ singer, rapper, filmmaker, and social activist known for his satirical and provocative content. He brought the crowd to life with hits like ‘Rasa Sayang 2.0’ and ‘Stranger in the North,’ turning the stadium into a massive sing-along.

Concluding the night was Rain, who made his second appearance in the City of Cats after the 2023 Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA).

He brought the night to an epic close with his signature hits, including ‘Rainism’ and ‘LA SONG.’

The festival also showcased local talent, with performances by the top three groups from the Be A Star K-POP Dance Competition – MAX, MAJORITY, and LUNAIRE.

Today, on the second day, South Korean-American singer Jessi will make her highly anticipated debut in Kuching. Yuna is also set to return for her second show in the city, her first being back in 2012.

Rain. (Pics courtesy of BSMF)