KUCHING: Association of Research and Development Movement of Singai Sarawak (REDEEMS) is gearing up for the fourth edition of its Battle of the Bands (BOTB) 2026 this July, bringing together musicians, cultural performers and the wider community in a three-day celebration of music, heritage and unity.
The three-day event will take place from July 16 to 18 at the Bidayuh Cultural Village @ REDEEMS in Bau, featuring the BOTB preliminary rounds on July 16, the grand finals on July 17, and the 18th Gawai Carnival REDEEMS finale on July 18.
The REDEEMS president Datuk Peter Nansian said the annual event has grown into one of Sarawak’s anticipated grassroots music platforms, providing opportunities for local musicians to showcase their talents while promoting cultural exchange and community unity.
“What began as a platform for local bands has evolved into a stage where musicians can showcase their creativity, passion and talent before a wider audience.
“Beyond the competition itself, the Battle of the Bands continues to play an important role in nurturing young talent, encouraging artistic expression and strengthening creativity in Sarawak,” he said during a press conference at the Borneo Tribal Village Office here on Wednesday.
Carrying the theme ‘Rock & Blues’, the competition is expected to attract bands from across Sarawak and Sabah, with the champion taking home a RM10,000 cash prize, alongside trophies and additional rewards.
Nansian revealed that previous BOTB champions will be allowed to return and compete, with past winners receiving direct entry into the final round as REDEEMS aims to raise the standard of the competition.
“We want to position this Battle of the Bands at a higher level. We want a challenge and we want to continue improving the quality of performances, while still giving new bands the opportunity to learn and grow,” he said.
Since its introduction in 2023, REDEEMS BOTB has featured 44 bands and attracted more than 8,500 visitors over three editions, establishing itself as a growing music attraction in the state.
Meanwhile, the 18th Gawai Carnival REDEEMS, which will be held on July 18, carries the theme ‘A Tribute to Leadership and Legacy for the People’ as a recognition of the contributions of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg towards community development, particularly in the Singai area and REDEEMS Centre.
The carnival will include cultural performances, traditional activities, exhibitions, food and beverage stalls, and community programmes celebrating the heritage of the Bidayuh community and Sarawak’s multicultural identity.
This year’s celebration is expected to draw between 4,000 and 5,000 visitors, with free public admission and a special performance by legendary Malaysian rock band Amok during the final night concert.
Nansian added that REDEEMS hopes to further develop the carnival into a larger cultural festival in the future, potentially evolving into an international tribal festival.
“We want to make this event a premier attraction, not only for the community but also for tourism development in Sarawak,” he said.
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Nansian (second left) and organising committee members display promotional materials for the 4th REDEEMS Battle of the Bands 2026 and the 18th Gawai Carnival REDEEMS 2026 during a press conference.
