KUCHING: What began as a local initiative just three years ago has grown into an international gathering of more than 1,200 singers, conductors, educators and choral enthusiasts from six countries, reflecting the growing stature of Kuching as a destination for arts, culture and creative exchange.
The Sarawak International Choral Festival and Symposium (SICFest) 2026 officially opened on Friday evening (June 19) at the Ranyai Ballroom, The Waterfront Hotel, bringing together participants from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and the United States.
“This year, we are delighted to welcome participants representing six countries. Together, we have more than 1,200 registered participants, including 393 international delegates, making this our largest festival to date,” said Festival Director and Chairman of the Kuching Choral Society, Benedict Lo.
He added that the festival has evolved beyond a competition platform to become a space where people from different cultures, backgrounds and generations can connect through a shared passion for music.
“The Sarawak International Choral Festival and Symposium is much more than a competition. It is a vibrant platform that celebrates excellence in choral music while fostering friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding among people from diverse backgrounds and generations,” he said.
He noted that participants range from primary school pupils and youth singers to working adults, retirees and senior citizens, demonstrating the unique ability of choral singing to bring people together across age groups.
According to a press statement, beyond the competition stage, the festival is also bringing music closer to the public through a series of Friendship Concerts at venues across Kuching, including tHe Spring Shopping Mall, Vivacity Megamall, and Plaza Merdeka.
The festival programme also places a strong emphasis on education and cultural appreciation, with participants attending masterclasses and workshops led by international choral experts over the three-day event.
Among the highlights is a special workshop exploring Sarawak’s musical heritage through the traditions of the Kenyah community, offering participants an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of local culture.
A major attraction of SICFest 2026 will be the Grand Prix Competition on June 21 at voco Kuching, where winners from various categories will compete for the festival’s highest honour.
Lo encouraged members of the public to attend the performances and activities throughout the festival weekend, describing music as a universal language capable of transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.
