The Malaysian rock powerhouse Barbarik is back for another concert round. The rock 'kapak' boys have announced another round of showmanship at the Mega Star Arena, Sungei Wang Plaza, on Jan 31. This follows their controversial yet sold out on Concert at Odeon KL on Dec 12.
The announcement of Pentas Barbarik Volume 2 came after Barbarik’s Dec 12 show at Odeon KL, which drew huge crowds but left more than 400 ticket holders unable to enter due to overcrowding, causing widespread disappointment.
This time, the band is assuring fans of a more spacious and comfortable venue where all ticket holders will be able to see them perform.
“To be honest, personally I was very saddened but very thankful at the same time when fans (at the first concert) stayed until the end of the show even though they were watching from outside of the venue,” said Barbarik guitarist and band leader JoBranko.
“I was constantly looking at the door even when I was performing. At one point, I even thought of just letting them through,” he added.
The earlier concert was also marred by faulty air-conditioning, forcing both fans and the band to endure stifling heat throughout the show.
“I was exhausted because I was sweating profusely, and that was my first time performing where I kept asking myself when the show was going to end,” JoBranko said. “I was kind of grateful when we arrived at the last song. I believe in my experience, it was one very heavy show I’ve performed in,” he added.
The former Wings guitarist said the upcoming concert would offer a much cooler environment, with the band promising to give their best performance.
To address the issue and ensure smoother operations for the upcoming concert, Barbarik has changed organisers to Republic Mokhmah Records (RMR), which has pledged to prioritise fans who were unable to enter the previous show. Pentas Barbarik Volume 1 was organised by Rockstation Event & Management.
“Rockstation will be refunding those who couldn’t get in at our last show, and I understand they have already taken down the names of ticket holders who waited outside,” JoBranko said. “Meanwhile, RMR will also be getting in touch with them, and they have also prepared a special discount so they can join us at our next show.
“We have already obtained the names from Rockstation, and according to them, they recorded around 466 names,” he added, saying those fans would be given top priority.
RMR founder Abdul Musa Mokhtar said the organiser will also implement a centralised ticketing system by collaborating with Ilasso Ticketing Service to ensure smoother entry flow for fans.
“RMR attributes the organisation of Pentas Barbarik Vol 2 significantly to their ‘strength,’ and Mega Star Arena is the best location for the New Year celebrations to begin.
“We at RMR will also strive to engage with illegal, excessive ticket sales and anything that could affect the reputation of not only Barbarik but the organisers in Malaysia,” said Abdul Musa.
Pentas Barbarik Volume 2 will also feature five guest artists — former Wings members Eddie, Black, Mel, and Jojet, as well as Cromok guitarist Karl. Formed in 2022, Barbarik comprises guitarist JoBranko, vocalist Muss — formerly of superstar groups of May and Wings — bassist Rozaimie, and drummer Ainoll.
Ticket prices for the show range from RM138 to RM1,500.
