Kuching Jazz 2024 on Oct 4–5 aims to position Sarawak as global jazz hotspot

Abdul Aziz (centre) officiates at the launch night of Kuching Jazz 2024 at a local hotel in Kuching on July 17, 2024.

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, July 17: The vibrant rhythms of jazz will soon echo along the majestic Sarawak River.

Hemisphere Corporation Sdn Bhd, under the Tourism & Hospitality Division of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Sarawak, has announced the return of the much-anticipated Kuching Jazz Festival.

This year’s festival, scheduled for Oct 4 and Oct 5 at the Grand Margherita Kuching’s waterfront, promises a spectacular celebration of music, culture, and community.

Kuching Jazz 2024 aims to position Sarawak as a global hotspot for jazz enthusiasts and as a premier event destination.

The festival will feature an eclectic mix of talented 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.

“We are incredibly excited to bring back Kuching Jazz. This year’s festival is not just about music; it’s about celebrating our cultural diversity and fostering unity among Southeast Asian nations.

“The additional activities leading up to the main event will make this year’s festival even more special and engaging for the community,” said Mark Ferguson, chief executive officer (CEO) of Hemisphere Corporation and organiser of the festival.

Ferguson made the remarks during the launch night of Kuching Jazz 2024, which was held today at a local hotel here and officiated by SEDC chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abdul Aziz Hussain.

In the lead-up to the main event, a series of engaging activities will enhance the festival experience:

— ‘Love in A Box’ Campaign (Sept 27–Oct 5): A heartwarming community initiative aimed at spreading joy and support within the local community.

— Charity Jazz Gala Dinner (Sept 28): Dedicated to raising funds for local charities at the Sarawak Chamber Ballroom, Riverside Majestic Hotel Puteri Wing.

— Jazzing Competition & Blood Donation Drive (Oct 1–2): Featuring an electrifying competition at Kuching Waterfront Amphitheatre on the first day, followed by a Jazz & Blood Donation Drive at a local mall on the second day, inviting music enthusiasts to donate blood while enjoying live jazz performances.

Furthermore, Ferguson announced that the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) team has been appointed as the event management for this year’s festival, with Zaini Zainuddin leading as the festival director.

“SCV not only celebrates the cultural diversity of Sarawak, but has also evolved into a premier event organiser with a remarkable track record in event management. We are excited to have Zaini Zainuddin leading as our festival director,” he noted.

Kuching Jazz 2024 is expected to attract a diverse audience, including music enthusiasts, tourists, and residents, who will come together to celebrate the rich tapestry of entertainment that defines the region.

Since its inception in 2017 as the Kuching Waterfront Jazz Festival and its rebranding in 2022 as the Kuching Jazz Festival, the festival has grown into a premier cultural event, uniting musical talents from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, with a special emphasis on showcasing the rich pool of local talent from Sarawak.

For more information, visit www.kuchingjazz.my. — DayakDaily