KUCHING: The ‘Rock In The Jungle’ (RITJ) 2.0 Concert, set to take place at the end of this month at the Sarawak Cultural Village, is expected to draw 12,000 spectators, placing it among the biggest entertainment events in the state.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the response to the festival on August 29 and 30 has been very encouraging despite it being only in its second year.
“If I’m not mistaken, the target is 12,000 spectators, around 5,000 to 6,000 each night. The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) started with only 300 spectators in its first year, but after 28 years it can now attract 25,000 visitors.
“If RITJ can last, it has the potential to be just as big,” he said at the RITJ 2.0 press conference here today.
He said the organisation of a music festival complements the various cultural and gastronomic events long held in Sarawak, while catering to the interests of different segments of society.
According to him, the younger generation is more inclined towards modern music such as rock, jazz, K-pop or orchestra, while the older generation tends to enjoy music from their own era.
“That’s why we must be fair to all fans,” he explained.
Abdul Karim said this year’s line-up includes well-known bands from Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia, which is expected to attract fans not only from Sarawak but also from abroad.
Festival director, Sunil Mohd Fauzan, said RITJ 2.0 is not just an entertainment stage but also carries messages of sustainability and social responsibility.
“We are developing educational initiatives to encourage visitors to adopt a sustainable lifestyle so that the festival’s legacy can be continued in the future.
“For the first night on August 29, the audience will be entertained by Hujan, local Sarawak band, Nice Stupid Playground, as well as two legendary bands from Indonesia – Gigi and Kotak.
“On the second night, August 30, the stage will be heated up with performances by Fearless, Breath In Ocean, and the legendary Japanese rock band Loudness, known for their energetic acts and captivating guitar performances.
“Interestingly, a day before the festival kicks off, on August 28, a meet-and-greet session with the artistes will be held at Stars of Stage (SOS) starting at 7:30 pm.
“This session is open to all and is expected to attract die-hard fans wanting to meet their idols up close,” he added.
Festival tickets are now available online at tickets.perk.asia, and the public is advised to purchase early to avoid disappointment as capacity is limited.
For those wanting to experience the most epic rock concert in Sarawak, don’t miss the promotional price of RM169 for single-day access and RM300 for two days.
Interestingly, the organisers are also offering exclusive student rates as low as RM88 per day and RM169 for two-day access.
