Sarawak Tourism Board enters Malaysia Book of Records for 'Most Percussionists In A Music Festival'

Sarawak Tourism Board has gained entry into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) for the "Most Percussionists In A Music Festival". Photos: Wong Tong Wei

Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has officially secured a place in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) for the "Most Percussionists In A Music Festival".

The achievement took place at the 26th Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) held from June 23-25 in Kuching. With a record-breaking count of 2,763 percussion instruments played, the event transformed into an unforgettable spectacle of sound and energy.

The three-day festival, which celebrated the diverse tapestry of world music, drew music enthusiasts and travellers from all over the world. It featured 199 musicians from 12 countries across four continents performing a wide range of music genres. Among the notable artistes were Big Mountain, Afriquoi, Chatusram, Safi Theatre and Zee Avi.

MBR chief operating officer Christopher Wong said STB has done a tremendous job and hopes more records will be broken in the coming festivals.

Music has the power to bring people together in shared spaces such as concerts, festivals and community events.

"They managed to gather a total of 2,763 percussionists to participate in this three-day festival and of course, this is a new record. We hope that the RWMF can achieve another record the following year," he said in a video posted on New Sarawak Tribune's Facebook page.

The achievement is said to be the first MBR record set at the RWMF. It demonstrates Sarawak's commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering a vibrant music scene.

STB teamed up with award-winning musician Edwin Nathaniel – co-founder of the music band Aseana Percussion Unit (APU) – to organise the record-breaking achievement.

"It was an honour to be invited by the STB along with percussionists like Japan's Kumi Masunaga, Singapore's Syed Ibrahim and homegrown talent Shameer Bakhda to be part of this RWMF record. The joy of seeing people from different walks of life, backgrounds and countries get together at the community drumming proves that music is and will always be a powerful tool that unites us all," said Nathaniel, 61, who clinched the 2022 Star Golden Hearts Award for his philanthropic work with special needs children.

Just express your heart, listen to each other, support one another and enjoy the music. That might just be the formula for peace and unity, says Nathaniel.

The diverse array of percussion instruments performed throughout the event reflected the festival's focus on promoting cultural exchange.

From African djembes to Latin American congas, Indian tablas to Japanese taiko drums, the stage was a melting pot of rhythmic traditions. Musicians seamlessly blended their talents, forming a sonic tapestry that transcended language barriers and cultural differences.

During the Rainforest World Music Festival, participants from diverse backgrounds came together to enjoy the performances of their favourite artistes and bands.A large number of percussion instruments used by participants during the record-breaking feat was provided by RMWF musicians.

According to Nathaniel, music has a unique and powerful ability to spread unity among people. It is a universal language that transcends cultural, linguistic and social barriers.

“Through community drumming, our hands, minds and hearts sync up to create music. Every percussionist is important in community drumming. There is no right or wrong in performing music. Just express your heart, listen to each other, support one another and enjoy the music. That might just be the formula for peace and unity,” he said.