Rock in the Jungle 2.0 set to electrify Sarawak Cultural Village this August
KUCHING (July 7): The much-anticipated Rock in the Jungle (RiTJ) festival is set to return for its second edition on Aug 29 and 30, promising another round of electrifying performances at the Sarawak Cultural Village.
This year's installment will showcase six powerhouse acts over two days, including two renowned Indonesian rock bands and for the first time, an international metal act from Japan.
Following its successful debut last year, RiTJ is back 'louder, bolder, and more electrifying', said RiTJ 2.0 event administrator Nur Linda Bara Abdullah.
'The festival remains rooted in celebrating rock music in harmony with the beauty of nature,' she shared during a press briefing at the Star on Stage venue, last Saturday.
RiTJ spokesperson Zaini Zainuddin stated that the festival aims to attract 12,000 attendees, doubling last year's turnout of approximately 5,700.
He noted improvements were made following feedback from the inaugural edition.
'We've learnt from our weaknesses. Last year's lineup included classic rock bands like Sweet Charity and Wings, which appealed to older audiences.
'This year, we've added bands like Nice Stupid Playground to engage younger fans,' Zaini said.
One major highlight this year is the inclusion of international talent beyond Southeast Asia, with Japan's legendary band Loudness joining the act.
'Last year, we didn't have any artistes from outside the Asean region. This year, we're stepping up,' said Zaini.
Zaini shared that securing Loudness was seamless, as the band had already expressed interest in performing in Sarawak.
Zaini said the organisers are targetting 12,000 attendees over the two days of RiTJ 2.0. – Photos by Jude Toyat
'It has always been a dream to give rock its own platform in Sarawak. We know there is a strong underground scene here. Now it's time to take scale up and if support remains strong, this could become an annual event,' he added.
The line-up also includes prominent names like Gigi and Kotak, alongside Sarawakian performers, creating opportunities for local bands to share the stage with major regional and international acts.
'Last year, we featured bands from Kuala Lumpur. This year, we've intentionally brought in Indonesian acts alongside Sarawakian bands.
'It's important for our local performers to experience the pride of sharing the same stage with these big names,' Zaini said, adding that the organisers are committed to making RiTJ inclusive.
The event, he noted, will welcome attendees from all walks of life, including children and persons with disabilities (OKU), and will embrace a 'jiwa rock' spirit – a celebration of diversity and freedom in music.
Tickets are available at https://tickets.pergh.asia, with early bird rates open until Aug 5.
A press conference for RiTJ, featuring Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, is expected to be held next week. concert entertainment lead Nur Linda Bara Abdullah Rock In The Jungle
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