KUCHING: The Borneo Jazz Festival returns this year with a more inclusive and diverse approach, featuring not only music but also elements of culture, tourism and community.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the festival's 20th edition carries the theme ‘Beyond Jazz’, reflecting a new direction that extends beyond musical performances.

According to him, the festival is scheduled to take place on 4 and 5 December 2026 at Pullman Miri Waterfront, marking the first time it will be held in Miri city centre and further reinforcing Miri’s position as an event and tourism hub in northern Sarawak.

“The theme ‘Beyond Jazz’ illustrates our effort to expand the festival into a broader platform encompassing music, culture, creativity, tourism and community while remaining rooted in Borneo,” he said.

He said this at the launch ceremony of Borneo Jazz Festival 2026 at Baitulmakmur II here on Thursday.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim added that this year’s edition will feature 10 performing groups from seven countries, namely Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Japan, the United States, Australia and Sweden.

Among the highlights will be a performance by renowned Malaysian artist Dato Zainal Abidin with the Julian Chan Jazz Orchestra, alongside international acts such as Sweden’s Platina Jazz.

In addition to the main concert, the festival has been expanded to include the Borneo Jazz Festival Village which offers free admission and features various activities such as food and beverage stalls, handicraft sales and open stage performances.

“This approach gives the local community and visitors an opportunity to enjoy a more complete festival experience, including activities such as a five-kilometre fun run that adds a recreational and family-friendly element,” he said.

At the same time, he emphasised the festival's importance in boosting the local economy through increased tourist arrivals, benefiting the hospitality, business and creative sectors.

“Events like this are not solely for entertainment, they also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and strengthen Sarawak’s tourism ecosystem,” he said.

Tickets for Borneo Jazz Festival 2026 will go on sale on 3 October, with further information available through the organiser's official website. -UKASnews