MIRI – The Borneo Jazz Festival (BJF) 2025, themed “Jazzy Miri”, was officially launched on Friday night at the Musical Corridor, Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, drawing thousands of visitors and reaffirming Miri’s reputation as an international hub for music and cultural tourism.
Miri City Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang said the festival is more than an entertainment showcase, describing it as a platform that highlights Miri’s identity as a city of culture, creativity and diversity.
He noted that the presence of over 10,000 visitors during the festival has a direct impact on the tourism, hospitality, retail and community sectors, strengthening the local economy and creative industry networks.
“BJF is not just an entertainment festival, but a platform that introduces Miri to the world as a city that celebrates culture, creativity and diversity,” he said.
The 2025 edition continues Sarawak’s tradition of hosting international-class music and arts festivals, aligning with the state’s mission to position itself as a cultural tourism destination in ASEAN.
Yii also confirmed that the next BJF will be held from 23 to 25 October 2026, ensuring the event remains a permanent fixture in Miri’s annual calendar.
This year’s festival featured a diverse lineup of local and international performers, including Aina Abdul, Tabitha King, Aisha Retno, Jaz Hayat, Nonaria, Ruiwen Yang x Kim Kwang Yong Trio, The Shang Sisters, Sada Borneo and Dion Das.
The event was hosted by Kim Goodburn (Mister International 2023) and Melisha Lin (Top 5 Miss Grand International 2024), who added glamour and energy to the stage.
Beyond the main performances, the festival also included an Artisan Market with over 20 local vendors, interactive workshops by artists, street music showcases, and the Groove Challenge battle, which awarded a RM5,000 grand prize and a performance slot at BJF 2026.
The event was organised by the Miri City Council, supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts and the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB).
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Datuk Gerawat Gala and STB Chairman Dato Dennis Ngau.
Observers noted that the BJF has grown into a cultural ecosystem where music, tourism and community engagement converge. Its consistent success demonstrates Sarawak’s ability to host world-class events while boosting local businesses and promoting cultural exchange.
