MIRI – The WAK Miri Festival 2026 calendar was officially launched at Miri City Hall, marking the third edition of the city’s flagship arts, culture, and lifestyle celebration.
The unveiling ceremony, held on 5 June, was officiated by Mayor Adam Yii alongside festival organisers and media representatives.
Mayor Yii commended the festival’s growth since its inception, noting that it has become a cornerstone of Miri’s cultural calendar.
He highlighted how the event has revitalised public spaces through art, music, and storytelling while strengthening community ties.
“What began as a brilliant addition to our cultural landscape has now firmly established itself as a cornerstone of our city’s annual events,” he said, adding that the festival reflects Miri’s ambition to be recognised as a regional creative hub.
Centred at the Miri Handicraft Centre, the festival will run from 19 to 21 June 2026, with satellite venues across the city hosting diverse programmes.
Festival Manager Brendan Chin revealed that this year’s line-up includes more than 40 events spanning music, theatre, visual arts, fashion, lifestyle workshops, and nightlife.
He emphasised that the festival aims to empower artists and provide accessible entry points for the public to engage with culture.
Among the highlights is the Festival Gendang Sarawak, a cultural showcase featuring traditional drumming and performance arts such as Bermukun and Bertandak, aligning with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Another major attraction is the GoBald 2026 Fundraising Campaign, organised by the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society, where participants shave their heads in solidarity with young cancer patients.
Local talent will also be spotlighted, with Miri-born musician Naki returning for a nostalgic performance blending soundscapes and storytelling.
The Inkzone Tattoo Culture Festival promises three days of body art exhibitions, workshops, and live showcases by renowned artists including Baxx Jordan, Sylvester Juli, and Ianbeck.
Community engagement will be further enhanced through the MYY Vintage, Arts & Collectors Market, featuring 30 vendors from Miri and Brunei offering vintage items, crafts, and artisanal goods.
Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the WAK Festival Pickleball Challenge, paired with a lively street party at the Handicraft Centre.
Visual arts will take centre stage with exhibitions such as All About Arts curated by Edric Ong, alongside collaborations with Canon Marketing Malaysia showcasing photography under themes like Wild About Nature and Celebrating Malaysia Through the Lens.
The festival also introduces fresh elements, including a comedy night with Jacky Ng at Octo Gastrobar and a collaboration with the World Asia Tapas Competition and Festival (WATCEFS), which will highlight culinary traditions and sustainability.
Mayor Yii expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak for their support, reaffirming the council’s commitment to nurturing cultural development and the creative economy.
He concluded by encouraging organisers, collaborators, and the media to continue growing the festival together.
The WAK Miri Festival 2026 is expected to draw significant participation from both local and international audiences, reinforcing Miri’s reputation as a vibrant and creative city.
