BAU: The much-anticipated Siniawan Country Music Festival is set to return on October 6 and 7 in the charming Siniawan Heritage Town.
Entrance is free, promising a weekend of music, delectable food and lots of beer.
Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh said the festival would feature a line-up of approximately nine talented performers.
“Among the local stars taking the stage are Os Pombos, Onstrings, Country Road Band, D’Wranglers, Peter Engkasan, Hi-Breed Band, Mountain Wind Band, and Raggy.
“Additionally, two solo performers will enchant the crowd.
“The main concert is scheduled to kick off between 7 and 7.30 pm, while the solo acts may start earlier at around 5.30 pm on the Siniawan street,” he said during a press conference at Serembu Service Centre yesterday.
Due to the ongoing waterfront construction, he added that international artistes would not be gracing the stage but that would not dampen the excitement.
This year will be the sixth Siniawan Country Music Festival. It has become a much-anticipated event for country music enthusiasts not only from Sarawak but also from peninsula, Indonesia, and Singapore.
Held consistently in the first week of October, the festival is often likened to the Oktoberfest for Sarawakians.
Notably, this festival is not just about music but also a boost for local businesses.
With an expected turnout of up to 12,000 people on both nights, he said it was expected to generate revenue of approximately RM1 mil, with all proceeds going to vendors and local residents.
In light of this, he invited country music enthusiasts to attend the festival to support the local tourism industry and businesses.
“I hope all country music fans and the communities of Bau and Kuching will come to Siniawan to enjoy the unique atmosphere of this charming old town.
“We have food, drinks, and entertainment, and it’s the perfect time for us to gather and enjoy quality time with our friends,” he said.
As such, festival-goers are advised to arrive early due to potential parking challenges.
He stated that the public could conveniently park their vehicles near the Siniawan Community Hall, Siniawan Chung Hua school, or at the parking area near the Swee Guk Khung Temple.
Miro reminded the public not to park their vehicles along the Kuching-Bau Road, as it could lead to traffic congestion.
Also present were Bau district officer Constantine Gerald David Jonas, festival’s organising chairman Dylan Lai and others.