Unity Country takes centre stage

BAU: The Siniawan Country Music Festival (SCMF) 2026 begins tomorrow, transforming Bau’s historic waterfront into a three-night celebration of music, culture and unity.
 
Running from Sept 25 to 27 at the Siniawan Town Riverfront, the festival carries the theme ‘Unity Country’, reflecting its mission of bringing people together across racial, religious and national boundaries through country music.
 
Admission is free, with nightly performances taking place against the backdrop of Siniawan’s iconic wooden shophouses and vibrant riverside atmosphere.
 
Serembu assemblyman Datuk Miro Simuh said the festival was more than a musical showcase, describing it as a community gathering where families and friends could enjoy the unique charm of Siniawan together.
 
“We come from different walks of life, and music is what unites us all. That is why this year we chose the theme Unity Country — music that brings people of diverse backgrounds together,” he said.
 
The opening night the eight edition tomorrow will feature Country Road Band from Miri, followed by Evergreen Unlimited Country Band from Kota Kinabalu and KCLC Band from Pontianak, Indonesia, highlighting the festival’s growing cross-border appeal.
 
Across the three evenings, audiences can expect performances by 11 bands on the main stage, alongside solo acts performing throughout the historic Old Street.
 
Saturday’s programme promises another lively lineup with Mountain Wind Band from Miri, Bau’s OnStrings Band, and Midnight Strangers taking centre stage.
 
The festival will conclude on Sunday with performances by Hi-Breed Band, The W’ranglers from Kuching, and Bau’s Sunday Stranglers Band.
 
Adding to the musical experience, the Old Street Stage will feature well-known performers including Mark Ashley, Peter Engkassan, Eddie Wong & Friends, Mathew Ngau Jau and B Groove throughout the festival.
 
Beyond music, visitors can immerse themselves in the famous Siniawan Night Market, renowned for its local street food, traditional delicacies and lively evening atmosphere that has become one of Bau’s signature attractions.
 
Free general seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while a limited number of tables have been reserved through community organisers.
 
The festival’s cowboy-inspired setting, combined with regional participation from Sarawak, Sabah and Kalimantan, reflects Siniawan’s role as a cultural meeting point in Borneo.
 
“It is not just about the music — it is about enjoying the evening atmosphere, food and drinks with friends. We want everyone to feel welcomed and connected,” Miro said.
 
With thousands expected to flock to the historic riverside town over the weekend, SCMF 2026 is set to once again position Siniawan as one of Sarawak’s premier community music festivals.