KUCHING – Families in Sarawak are set to experience something entirely new as Tiny Fest Borneo 2026 launches at Tropics City on 28–29 March.
The event, organised by SFDP Sdn. Bhd. and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak alongside the Kuching South City Council, introduces Kuching’s first-ever baby rave under the theme “Rumble in the Jungle”.
The festival aims to encourage children and parents to step away from screens and reconnect through shared activities.
Running from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the programme features bouncy castles, glow stick parties, face painting, and a Mega Cardboard Maze.
Families can also enjoy creative workshops, live art installations, and a screening of Majau: The Harvest Tale, a Sarawakian animation celebrating Borneo’s folklore and cultural heritage. Children are invited to dress as their favourite animals, adding to the playful atmosphere.
Music will be central to the event, with parent-DJs including DJ Keeyushee, DJ Arabyrd, and DJ Ari spinning upbeat tracks designed to get both children and adults moving.
A special orchestral performance is also planned, adding a unique dimension to the weekend’s entertainment. Food and beverage outlets will be available throughout the venue, ensuring families can enjoy a full day of activities.
Beyond entertainment, Tiny Fest introduces Tiny Talks, a panel series addressing modern parenting challenges.
Experts from KPJ and Sarawak General Hospital will lead discussions on children’s behaviour, emotional development, and the impact of excessive screen time.
The session, titled “Small Bodies, Big World: Understanding What Kids Are Trying to Tell Us”, highlights the importance of balancing technology with real-world experiences.
In his welcoming address, YB Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South City Council, praised the initiative: “Kuching has seen many events over the years, but a festival designed specifically to bring parents and children together in this way is something truly worth celebrating.”
He emphasised the rising concerns around childhood anxiety, attention difficulties, and social disengagement linked to excessive screen exposure, noting that Tiny Talks provides a vital platform for constructive dialogue.
The mayor also commended the organisers for including anti-bullying awareness as part of the programme, stressing that a family-friendly festival must also be a safe and informed one.
He expressed hope that conversations sparked during the event would continue in homes, schools, and community groups long after the festival ends.
Festival Director Kiyoshi Aihara, known locally as a DJ and radio personality, shared that Tiny Fest was inspired by his own journey into parenthood.
“Tiny Fest actually came from a very personal place. When I became a father, I didn’t want to give up my love for music, but I also wanted to embrace family life. So I decided to combine both worlds, and that’s how Tiny Fest started,” he explained.
He added that the support from parents in Kuching gave the organisers confidence to bring the idea to life.
The festival is also backed by sponsors including Doremart, Best Motors, Sarawak Metro, and Supreme. With activities ranging from baby raves and band labs to workshops by WOW Studios and JR Skates, the event promises something for every family member.
Local artists such as M Sahzy will also contribute through live installations, further showcasing Sarawak’s creative talent.
Tiny Fest Borneo 2026 is more than a weekend of fun; it represents a growing movement in Sarawak’s cultural landscape.
By blending entertainment with meaningful conversations on parenting and wellbeing, the festival highlights the importance of family presence and community connection in today’s digital age.
