Abdul Karim (seated centre) in a photocall with the concert’s organisers and members of Search and XPDC after the press conference. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (Oct 1): The upcoming Konsert Fenomena Samurai reflects the determination of committed organisers in positioning Sarawak as a leading concert hub in the region, said State Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He praised co-organisers Seri Simfoni and Bintang Batu Event for their dedication in bringing together legendary Malaysian rock bands Search and XPDC for a joint performance in Kuching this December.
“Without organisers like them, we would not be able to stage events of this scale in Sarawak,” he told a press conference at the Riverside Sky Lounge today.
Abdul Karim said high-quality concerts such as Konsert Fenomena Samurai not only provide entertainment but also generate wider benefits.
“Events like this help boost our tourism industry because fans travel from other states and even neighbouring countries.
“When they come, they stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and support our local businesses,” he said.
He added that concerts also offer a platform for performers to thrive, especially after the hardships of the pandemic.
“Those in the performing arts suffered greatly during Covid-19. They had no steady income and no stage to perform on. Concerts like this give them hope and an opportunity to rebuild their careers. I thank the organisers for playing their part in reviving this industry,” he said.
Citing Sarawak’s reputation for hosting world-class music festivals such as the Rainforest World Music Festival, Borneo Jazz Festival and Senyawa Festival, Abdul Karim said the Samurai concert will further enhance the state’s standing as Malaysia’s premier concert destination.
Meanwhile, organisers spokesperson Ikhram Zainuddin thanked all parties for their support, saying the decision to hold the event was driven by strong demand from fans in Borneo, particularly Sarawak.
He said the organisers aim not only to bring in legendary bands but also to provide opportunities for local talent.
The concert will feature two stages — the main stage inside Stadium Sarawak and an outdoor mini carnival showcasing popular Sarawakian artistes.
“The organisers want to give priority to local Malaysian artistes, which is why we are bringing in legendary bands like Search as the headliners while we may also reveal more surprise acts in the run-up to the concert.
“The show will feature two stages – the main stage inside the Sarawak Indoor Stadium and an outdoor mini carnival starting in the afternoon that will showcase popular Sarawakian artistes,” he said.
Konsert Fenomena Samurai is scheduled for Dec 13, 2025 at Stadium Sarawak, featuring XPDC (Izo, Lola, Eddie, Arif and Mamu) and Search (Din and Kid).
Tickets are on sale now, with early bird prices from RM90 and regular prices ranging from RM129 to RM359, available at fenomenasamurai.ubertickets.asia.