BAU: Siniawan town is gearing up for a historic celebration that will include the Siniawan Country Music Festival (SCMF), the waterfront launching, and Siniawan town’s anniversary – all in one grand event.
The most awaited will be the eighth SCMF, which will be held from September 26 to 28, marking what promises to be the biggest edition yet.
Serembu Assemblyman, who is also the adviser for the eighth SCMF, Miro Simuh, said this year’s festival will be more than just music – it will commemorate four major milestones, cementing Siniawan’s growing reputation as a cultural and tourism hotspot in Sarawak.
He also said that the SCMF has continued to grow since its inception in 2016, and is known as Asia’s largest country music festival after Australia’s famed Tamworth Country Music Festival, and other country music festivals in the Unite States and Europe.
“With 11 bands and several solo acts performing over three electrifying nights, SCMF 2025 is set to draw thousands of cowboys and cowgirls – hat-wearing fans from across Malaysia and beyond,” said Miro at a press conference in Siniawan town yesterday.
Besides that, he said there are more multi-faceted celebrations lined up, which also include the 85th anniversary of Siniawan town, the 50th anniversary of the Siniawan Street Night Market, and the official opening of the Siniawan Waterfront by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
That same evening, the Minister for National Unity, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, will officiate the SCMF opening ceremony.
Starting this year, SCMF 2025 will debut at the Siniawan Waterfront, offering a more spacious, scenic venue with upgraded amenities and a capacity to host up to 5,000 spectators.
Visitors can expect a true “Wild Wild West” experience in this historic Chinese-majority town, known for its well-preserved wooden shoplots and “cowboy town” atmosphere dating back to the early 1900s.
Meanwhile, the organising chairperson for SCMF 2025, Dylan Lai, said festival-goers are encouraged to don their best cowboy and cowgirl attire and immerse themselves in the spirit of country music, community, and celebration.
“The Siniawan Country Music Festival isn’t just an event – it’s an experience that blends history, heritage, and harmony.
“We hope media friends, country music lovers, and the wider community will help us promote this unique event.
“With the new venue and strong support from our committees and partners, we aim to bring SCMF to even greater heights,” added Dylan.
He also said that since SCMF’s humble beginning in 2016, they welcomed 8,000 visitors in its first year and over 10,000 the year after.
“This year, with a larger and more beautiful venue at the new waterfront, we hope to exceed those numbers, make a very good impact on tourism around here, and attract many tourists, cowboys, and cowgirls,” he said.
